First-Generation Pathways Program

Empowering the Next Generation of Legal Leaders

Apply to the First-Generation Pathways Program

Sidebar

The First-Generation Pathways Program helps first-generation college students prepare for law school through structured academic support, LSAT preparation, mentorship, and direct exposure to legal education.

Created in partnership with the College of Education and Human Development and funded by AccessLex Institute, this two-year program is designed to close the resource gap and ensure students have the tools, confidence, and connections to pursue a legal career.

Apply to the First-Generation Pathways Program: Start Your Application

Why This Program Matters

For many students, the path to law school can feel like a “hidden curriculum” — full of unfamiliar expectations, unwritten rules, and limited access to mentorship.

The First-Generation Pathways Program is designed to help close that gap.

Through academic preparation, professional development, and hands-on exposure to law school, students gain the tools, confidence, and connections needed to pursue a legal education and future legal career.

What You’ll Gain

LSAT Preparation

Participants receive structured LSAT support, including:

  • Six months of specialized LSAT preparation
  • A one-week LSAT boot camp before senior year
  • LSAT application fees covered by the Pathways Program

Academic Readiness

Students build skills that support both undergraduate success and law school preparation through:

  • Monthly workshops on topics such as time management, public speaking and resilience
  • A spring break boot camp during senior year focused on:
    • Legal writing
    • Law school classroom preparation
    • The Socratic method

Professional Development

The program helps students build confidence and a sense of belonging in the legal profession through:

  • Leadership development
  • Professional identity formation
  • Group-based community projects with local nonprofit partners

Law School Exposure

Participants gain firsthand experience with what it's like to be a law student through opportunities to:

  • Attend law school classes
  • Participate in select Brandeis Law events
  • Connect with admissions faculty and staff

Mentorship & Networking

Students are supported by a growing professional network and attorney mentorship through collaboration with local bar associations. These relationships will help students better understand the profession and begin building meaningful connections before applying to law school.

Who Should Apply?

The First-Generation Pathways Program is designed for motivated first-generation college students who are interested in exploring a future in law.

First-Generation Eligibility

Students are encouraged to apply if they:

  • Are first-generation law students, which is defined as students whose parent(s)/guardian(s) have not earned a bachelor’s degree
  • This program is also available to students who fall within a broader category of students with limited family experience with higher education, including students whose families have some college education but no completed degree, or no experience with graduate or professional education (e.g., law school)

When to Apply

  • Traditional applicants: Apply at the end of your sophomore year to begin the program at the start of your junior year
  • Students interested in a 3+3 program: Apply at the end of your freshman year

Program Timeline

The program follows a structured, two-year pathway that supports students from undergraduate preparation through law school readiness.

Students participate in:

  • Monthly workshops
  • Academic and professional development sessions
  • Campus-based law school experiences
  • LSAT preparation and a boot camp that takes place in August before their Senior year
  • A law school readiness boot camp during Spring Break of their Senior year

Ready to Apply?

If you are interested in joining the First-Generation Pathways Program, we encourage you to apply.

Application Form: Apply Now

Contact

For questions about the program, please contact:

JoAnne Sweeny
Pathways Program Coordinator
University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law
joanne.sweeny@louisville.edu
502-852-6375