Choosing the Best Undergraduate Major for Aspiring Attorneys at the University of Central Florida: Insights for Fall 2022

Aspiring attorneys often wonder about the best undergraduate majors to prepare them for law school and, ultimately, their legal careers. Traditionally, a broad range of interests and abilities is often encouraged to develop not just as professional lawyers but as well-rounded individuals. However, certain fields stand out as particularly advantageous. For students at the University of Central Florida entering in Fall 2022, accounting stands out as both a practical and versatile choice. Let's explore the reasons why.

Accounting: A Foundation for Legal Success

According to experts, the best undergraduate major for law school is accounting. This is because many fields of law intersect with business concepts, and a solid accounting background provides a strong foundation for understanding these intricacies. While any business background can be beneficial, a specific accounting degree is recommended. Here's why:

Why Accounting?

Accounting isn't merely about numbers; it involves a wealth of critical thinking and analytical skills that translate well into legal practice. For instance, both disciplines require a deep understanding of rules, regulations, and precision. Additionally, many legal practices, especially tax and patent law, demand dual expertise, where accounting and law complement each other. Considering U.S. law being inundated with practitioners, having a specialized background can set you apart.

Planning for the Future

Even if your plans include full-time law school, you’ll benefit from pursuing accounting alongside your legal education. Here are a few reasons why:

Enhanced Employment Prospects: If you find yourself outside the world of law, your accounting degree remains a valuable asset. It offers a secure and in-demand career path, even if you don’t pursue legal studies. Flexibility and Part-Time Law School: Opting for part-time law school is a smart financial move, allowing you to save money and gain work experience. Combining a full-time accounting job with part-time law school can be an excellent strategy. Accelerated Career Trajectory: By taking advantage of online part-time programs, you can shave a year off your legal education, giving you an early start in your career.

Understanding the Challenges of Legal Practice

While the right undergraduate major can set you up for success, it's also essential to understand the realities of legal practice. The fallacy that law school is a shortcut to wealth and status is far from accurate. Here are some critical points to consider:

Statistics and Realities

According to recent studies and personal observations, the likelihood of turning a law degree into a financially rewarding and satisfying career is not assured. Only a fraction of those who take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test) get accepted into law school, approximately 67% complete their law degree, and only about one-third of graduates actually practice law after graduation. In many cases, the ratio of graduates to available jobs is 3:1. This means that for every job opening, there are three qualified candidates, making competition fierce.

Real-World Implications

Those who do practice law often find themselves leaving within a decade due to dissatisfaction with the profession. Furthermore, for many, law school does not always predict post-law-school success. Credentials, including grades and previous work experience, do not guarantee employment. Here are some critical statistics to consider:

About 67% of law school applicants are accepted. About 67% of those who start law school actually finish. About 33% of law school graduates actually find legal employment. Approximately 3 graduates compete for each job opening, making the legal job market highly competitive.

What Does This Mean for You?

With these statistics in mind, it becomes clear that law school is not a guarantee of success. If you're considering the field, it's crucial to assess your skills, interests, and passion. Shying away from academics and indulging in daydreams about success will not prepare you for the hardships that lie ahead. Here are some key questions to consider:

What subjects do I excel in? What types of work truly engage me, and what do I hate? What resources can I use, such as vocational counseling, to align my career path with my strengths?

While the engineering background of the author, coupled with strong grades and work experience, did not equate to success in the legal profession, these insights highlight the importance of practical and mindful career planning. Even a top-ranked law degree from a prestigious institution may not guarantee a path to financial and professional satisfaction.

Conclusion

While the journey to becoming a lawyer is challenging, the right undergraduate major, such as accounting, can provide a solid foundation. However, it's equally important to understand the realities of the legal profession and plan your career accordingly. Whether you choose to pursue accounting or a different path, remember that a successful career involves more than just a law degree—it requires passion, skills, and clear-eyed assessments of your strengths and interests.