If I could go back to the summer before law school, here's what I'd tell myself.

1. You Don't Need to Know Everything

I spent the summer before law school trying to pre-read every case I could find. That was a waste of time. Law school teaches you a new way of thinking — you can't pre-learn that. Relax instead.

2. Briefing Cases Gets Faster

Those first case briefs took me hours. By the end of the first semester, I could brief a case in 15 minutes. It gets better. Trust the process.

3. Your Study Method Will Change

What worked in undergrad probably won't work in law school. I had to completely relearn how to study. Be open to trying new methods — outlines, flowcharts, practice questions.

4. Grades Aren't Everything

I was so focused on grades that I almost missed out on the experiences that actually matter — clinics, internships, networking, student organizations. Balance matters.

5. Ask for Help Early

I waited too long to go to office hours. Professors want to help, but you have to ask. Don't wait until finals to seek support.

Law school is a marathon, not a sprint. Be kind to yourself, stay curious, and remember why you started.