5 Tips for incoming 1L students

Fall 2026 Orientation at Charleston School of Law will begin on Monday, August 10. That may feel like it’s still far away, but trust us, time will fly by and before you know it, you will be checking in for the first day of Orientation.

With that in mind, we asked our Career Services department whether they had any tips for incoming first-year (1L) students. Here are five tips for preparing for Orientation:

1. Your Legal Career Starts the Day You Begin Law School

Students should focus on academic success first and foremost, but don’t assume career planning begins in your second or third year. Your legal career starts on Day One of orientation. Treat every interaction like a job interview. Know that every introduction and opportunity contributes to your professional reputation and is a step towards your ultimate career goals.

2. Meet With Your Career Advisor Early & Often

Students who engage with Career Services early and often tend to be better positioned for summer employment opportunities, interviewing, networking, and long-term career planning.

3. Update Your Resume Before Orientation

Having a polished resume ready before classes begin allows students to take advantage of networking opportunities and job applications that arise during the first semester. Hiring for summer positions after your first year begins earlier than you’d expect – some large firms begin posting summer positions in the fall of your 1L year while peak application season begins in January of your 1L year.

4. Review your Digital Footprint

Review your social media accounts and online presence through the eyes of your future employer. Consider adjusting privacy settings on personal social media accounts and removing any content that may be inconsistent with the professional image you want to present as a future attorney. Professionalism and civility matter more than ever.

5. Do NOT Panic if You Don’t Know What Type of Lawyer You Want to Be

Many incoming students feel pressure to have their entire career path mapped out before they start law school. Many successful attorneys explored multiple practice areas before finding the right fit. Be curious, keep an open mind, and take advantage of opportunities to learn about different legal careers and practice areas. Career Services is here to help you navigate the process.