How to Maximise the First Few Weeks of Law School

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

Beginning law school is exciting, but the very first few weeks of it can also feel overwhelming. From sorting out registration and Freshers’ events to enrolling in classes and meeting new friends, it is easy to glide through September without developing the habits that will help you succeed in the later months of the academic year.

The good news is that the early weeks are typically the best time to lay the foundations for your academic and social journey. Here are some pointers, based on experience, to make the most of the start of your law school journey.

Engage with Societies!

Many first-year students assume societies are a distraction or a waste of time. In reality, they offer golden opportunities that build knowledge, confidence, and connections you won’t find in the lecture hall.

University isn't just about lectures and workshops (or seminars), joining societies gives you a community, a sense of belonging, and helps ease any imposter syndrome you may feel in your first weeks, as well as present you with opportunities that you wouldn't find anywhere else.

For law students, the go-to society regardless of your career aspirations is the Manchester University Law Society (MULS). Its events range from career panels and firm presentations to social gatherings, all of which can boost your confidence, as well as improve your networking skills (a must if you are to succeed as a lawyer!).

Beyond MULS, you have numerous other law-related societies that could align with your interests. For example, the Pro Bono Society is a fantastic place to start if you're interested in engaging in pro bono activities, the Debating Society is a wonderful place to improve your verbal skills, and, if you're hoping to qualify as a barrister, the Bar Society is tailored to you, with events ranging from talks by barristers and pupils to guidance on the step-by-step path to qualification.

Additionally, you also have non-law groups where you can pursue hobbies and make friends outside your course. These connections can become your support system throughout your degree, so be sure to engage with them in the opening weeks.

Meet Your Academic Adviser!

Every student is assigned an academic adviser, who will usually send out an introductory email to the students and possibly hold a session for advisees to get to know the adviser and vice versa.

The problem is that many students don't fully utilise the services of an academic adviser, instead contacting them only when issues arise. Where possible, aim to book a meeting during your first few weeks.

Your adviser usually is an experienced law tutor who can guide you on study techniques, recommend resources, and help you set realistic goals. Having that early conversation gives you invaluable advice and helps you stand out as a proactive student! Advisers remember the students who show initiative, and those relationships can pay off later when you're applying for internships or need references.

Make the most of Peer Mentors!

Alongside academic staff, the LLB and other courses alike offer peer mentoring schemes where second or third-year students support freshers with personal insights.

Peer mentors give you insights that academics can't, such as how to approach your first essay, how to nail that work-life balance, and what resources put you in a strong position to aim for top marks.

Talking to someone who has recently faced the same challenges can significantly impact your academic experience. It builds confidence, and combining adviser guidance with peer mentors’ lived experience gives you a stronger foundation for success.

Additionally, it provides another opportunity to meet other first-year students whom you may not have had the chance to speak with during mentoring sessions.

Use Office Hours as a Regular Tool!

The notion of attending office hours may seem daunting at first, but office hours are one of the most underused resources in first year. Like meeting advisers, many students think they're only for emergencies or last-minute exam prep. In reality, they're an open invitation to clarify lecture material, ask about tricky cases, or even get insights on how to approach a specific question! Making office hours a habit, where you commit to attending them at least once a month, shows initiative and helps you build rapport with your lecturers. It also keeps you engaged with the material before problems snowball.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the first few weeks matter more than you think. Start strong, use the support around you, and you’ll already be ahead of the curve, a reminder that the courage to continue really does count. Use these early weeks to invest in yourself, and you’ll be glad you did when exams and applications arrive.