Welcome back! Today, we're talking about the basics of the bar exam. This episode might send shudders down your spine if you're a 3L looking to take the bar exam next summer, or perhaps you're thinking, "Hey, I'm a 1L. Why should I be worrying about this so early?" Well, the reality is the bar exam is a pretty big deal and is one of the final hurdles to becoming a lawyer. So whether you're taking the next bar exam or taking it a few years from now, you need to understand the basics, to ensure you prepare effectively and only have to take it once! (We're pleased to announce our episodes now contain a transcript, which you'll find below. Enjoy!) In this episode we discuss: Bar exam basics, especially California and the UBE states What the UBE consists of (MPT, MBE, MEE) What the performance test covers and how to prepare What to expect on the MBE and how to prepare Being strategic and matching your bar exam planning to your career objectives Questions to ask yourself as you decide which bar exam to take The changes coming to the California bar exam Should you wait to take the CA bar exam?  Will CA be harder or easier after the changes? Planning ahead for the bar exam as a 1L and 2L  Other state bar exams you may encounter Choosing the right bar review provider and whether you need to buy immediately as a law student What are accommodations and how can you get them for the bar exam? Should you take bar electives in law school? The future of the bar exam Resources National Conference of Bar Examiners (http://www.ncbex.org/exams/ube/) Thinking Ahead to Get Ready for the Bar Exam (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-26-thinking-ahead-get-ready-bar-exam/) The Top 5 Bar Exam Mistakes Podcast (sponsored by Adaptibar - with $55 discount) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-47-the-top-five-bar-exam-study-mistakes-with-ariel/) Adaptibar (http://barexamtoolbox.com/vendors/adaptibar/) Themis Bar Review (http://barexamtoolbox.com/vendors/themis-bar-review/) Lean Sheets (http://barexamtoolbox.com/vendors/lean-sheets/) Sketchy Law (http://barexamtoolbox.com/tools-bar-exam-success-sketchy-law/) Can You Pass the Bar Exam Without Taking Barbri (http://barexamtoolbox.com/can-you-pass-the-bar-exam-without-taking-barbri/) Bar Exam Tips: Mastering the MBE (podcast) (http://barexamtoolbox.com/podcast-episode-52-bar-exam-tips-mastering-mbe/) Seeking Accommodations in Law School and the Bar Exam (http://barexamtoolbox.com/podcast-episode-72-seeking-accommodations-law-school-bar-exam-dr-jared-maloff/) All our Bar Exam Related Podcasts (http://barexamtoolbox.com/podcast/) Episode Transcript: Download a copy of the transcript If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck on the bar exam. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today, we’re talking about making the most of your second semester of law school.  By now, you probably have some or all of your grades back, so this is a good time to take stock of where you are and make any changes necessary to get the most out of your second semester.  In this episode we discuss: Dealing with your first semester grades, whether they're good, bad, or in the middle What do your 1L first semester grades really indicate?  Calibrating your expectations Evaluating what went well and what you need to improve on How your grades can affect your 1L summer job search What should you be focusing on in the second semester? What you can be doing to advance your future legal career, even as a 1L Preparing for the law journal write-on process Thinking about Moot Court Extra-curricular activities to consider getting involved with second semester Taking care of yourself Handling burnout The Law School Toolbox Second Semester ReBoot course, if your grades need to improve Resources Law School Toolbox Second Semester ReBoot (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/join-second-semester-reboot-law-school-camp/) Dealing with Bad Law School Grades (podcast)  (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-28-dealing-bad-law-school-grades/) Job Search Basics for 1Ls (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-24-job-search-basics-1ls/) Acing Oral Arguments in Law School (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-53-acing-oral-arguments-law-school/) Surviving Law School Moot Court (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-37/) Acing the Law Review Write-On Competition (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-42-acing-law-review-write-competition/)  Where to Get Help in Law School (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-17-get-help-law-school/) How to Conduct Great Informational Interviews (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/how-to-conduct-great-informational-interviews/) The Binge Breaker (http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2016/11/the-binge-breaker/501122/) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck second semester. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we're sharing advice for first-time bar exam takers, to ensure you can take the test once and pass. Even if you're still in law school, and the bar exam is years away, it's never too early to get informed and chart a course for success, so tune in. In this episode we discuss: Mistakes first-time bar takers commonly make How to evaluate what type of bar prep is for you Do you need to take a commercial bar prep course? The importance of knowing your strengths and weaknesses when studying Alison and Lee share their experience as first-time bar exam takers Avoiding burnout while studying for the bar What to do if you sense that your bar prep course isn't working for you What role minimum competency should play in your bar exam strategy Ways to prepare for the MBE efficiently Preparing for the day of the bar exam How to prepare for emergencies that may arise as you're studying or on test day The importance of targeted practice Accommodations and how to get them Resources Exam Day Tips (http://barexamtoolbox.com/exam-day-tips/) Warning Signs You May Need Help as a First-Time Bar Taker (http://barexamtoolbox.com/warning-signs-you-may-need-extra-help-as-a-first-time-bar-exam-taker/) Can You Pass the Bar Exam without BARBRI (http://barexamtoolbox.com/can-you-pass-the-bar-exam-without-taking-barbri/) Thinking Ahead to Get Ready for the Bar Exam (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-26-thinking-ahead-get-ready-bar-exam/) Seeking Accommodations for Law School and the Bar Exam (http://barexamtoolbox.com/podcast-episode-72-seeking-accommodations-law-school-bar-exam-dr-jared-maloff/) Tools for Bar Exam Success: AdaptiBar (http://barexamtoolbox.com/tools-for-bar-exam-success-adaptibar/) Bar Tutoring for First-Time Takers (UBE) http://barexamtoolbox.com/ube-bar-tutoring-first-time-takers/ Bar Tutoring for First-Time Takers (CA) http://barexamtoolbox.com/california-bar-tutoring-first-time-takers/ Download a copy of this transcript (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Episode-79-Making-the-most-of-second-semester.pdf) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). And we have lots of bar exam advice on our Bar Exam Toolbox (http://barexamtoolbox.com) site. Thanks for listening! Good luck on the bar exam. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we’re talking about how to get great letters of recommendation, whether you need them to apply to law school, get a job or clerkship, or for some other purpose as a law student. Fundamentally, there are two issues at play here. First, who should you ask to write your letters? How can you ensure they're actually enthusiastic? And, two, what information do your letter writers need to do the best possible job for you? After this episode, you'll be able to pinpoint the best people to help you, and ensure they write you stellar letters of recommendation! So let's get started. In this episode we discuss: Who should you ask for a letter of recommendation?  What makes someone a good recommender? How can you tell if they're the right person for your needs? What you're looking for in a good letter of recommendation Lee and Alison share their letter of recommendation experiences, as students and as recommenders What types of letters of recommendation should you get for law school, legal employment, clerkships, internships, etc.? How to ask someone for a letter of recommendation How to ensure the recommendation actually gets done What do you need to give someone so they can complete the letter? What should you do if the recommender asks you to write the letter yourself? Resources Craft a Law School Application That Gets You In: Letters of Recommendation (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/08/how-to-create-your-best-law-school-application-letters-of-recommendation/) Make Your Clerkship Application Shine: Letters of Recommendation http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/08/make-your-clerkship-application-letters-of-recommendation-shine/ If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck with getting those recommendations! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today, as finals wind down, we're talking about what you can do over winter break to improve your law school (and legal career) experience. Don't worry, a lot of it is fun! Not just more work - you've done enough for now. Winter break is a time to recuperate, but we do have a few suggestions! In this episode we discuss: Alison and Lee share their winter break experiences The importance of relaxation after finals Why you may need to reconnect with loved ones The value of investing in your community and doing volunteer work Reinvigorating your passion for law school Things you can do to work on your soft skills while you are off from school Getting ahead on your job search How to handle less than desirable final grades Resources Podcast: Soft Skills You Need to Develop to Be A Successful Attorney (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-71-soft-skills-you-need-to-develop-to-be-a-successful-attorney/) Conducting Great Informational Interviews (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/how-to-conduct-great-informational-interviews/) 5 Ways to Make Your Winter Break Productive (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/5-ways-make-winter-break-productive/) Did You Work on Your Resume During Winter Break? (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/did-you-work-on-your-resume-during-law-school-winter-break/) Advice From a Law Recruiter: Top Tips For a Perfect Resume (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/advice-law-recruiter-part-one-resumes/)  Podcast: Resume and Cover Letter Basics (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-12-resume-cover-letter-basics/) Podcast: Seeking Accommodations in Law School and on the Bar Exam: (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-72-seeking-accommodations-law-school-bar-exam/) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Have a nice, relaxing break! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today, we’re excited to have attorney and author Lainey Feingold here with us. She is a long-time disability rights lawyer and developed a technique called Structured Negotiation that is the subject of her book, "Structured Negotiation: A Winning Alternative to Lawsuits," which was recently published by the ABA. Structure Negotiation has been used with well-known organizations including major banks, Walmart, the city of San Francisco, and Major League Baseball to address accessibility issues in physical and virtual environments, outside of court. If you're interested in learning more this new alternative dispute resolution approach or want to craft a non-traditional legal path, tune in.  In this episode we discuss: What is Structured Negotiation? How is it different from other alternative dispute resolution techniques? Personality traits and skills that are useful in Structured Negotiation Lainey's path to becoming a disability rights attorney The importance of resilience in a legal career Advice for law students interested in an alternative legal practice Advice on starting a small firm or solo practice Resources that can help when pursuing this type of career How you can learn more about Structured Negotiation Resources Lainey's website (http://www.lflegal.com)  More information about her book, "Structured Negotiation: A Winning Alternative to Lawsuits" (http://shop.americanbar.org/ebus/store/productdetails.aspx?productId=253331125) Contact Lainey: [email protected] Episode Transcript: Click to download If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we are talking about a very important topic -- who should go to law school? People have a variety of reasons for going to law school, but the real question is -- should YOU go? We'll help you figure that out. In this episode we discuss: What do lawyers really do? What is law school like? Questions to ask yourself before you apply to law school Ways to learn about the legal profession Ways to test out a legal career The people you should talk to before making the big decision Being realistic about money, time, the bar exam, and employment The importance of figuring out what you're good at and what you like Should you go to law school just because you think you'd be "good at it"? Why you shouldn't go to law school because you don't know what else to do Drawbacks to consider when going to law school Will you be happy as a lawyer? What to do if you're on the fence about law school  The importance of examining your values and how they would line up with law school and a legal career Running the numbers -- is law school worth it? Resources Why are Lawyers So Unhappy (Podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-10-lawyers-unhappy/) Maintaining Authenticity in the Legal Profession (Podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-5-maintaining-authenticity-legal-profession/) How to Conduct Great Informational Interviews (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/how-to-conduct-great-informational-interviews/) How to Decide What Type of Law to Practice (Podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-70-how-to-decide-what-type-of-law-to-practice/) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we're talking about a difficult reality – what happens when you don’t pass the bar exam. Ariel Salzer, one of our bar exam tutors, is here with Lee to share some advice. If you got disappointing bar exam news, we have helpful tips in this podcast to help you regroup and get ready to pass next time. If you're in law school now, you can also find some useful information on how to be as prepared as possible so, hopefully, you only have to take the bar exam once.  In this episode we discuss: What should you do when you get bad news? Does anyone really care if you failed (other than you)? How to analyze what went wrong Strategies for self-reflection Why it's important to feel bad and take some time and space to be upset Creating your bar prep mission statement How to make sure you aren't setting yourself up for the same mistakes on your next attempt How to hold yourself accountable during the bar study period Avoiding self-sabotage How to tell people you failed Do you need accommodations and how to seek them? Should you take the next bar exam or wait? How to take a more active role in the correction, review, and rewrite process Resources Seeking Accommodations in Law School and on the Bar Exam (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-72-seeking-accommodations-law-school-bar-exam/) How to Apply for Bar Exam Accommodations When Finances are a Concern (http://barexamtoolbox.com/apply-bar-exam-accommodations-finances-concern/) Should You Apply for Accommodations for the Bar Exam (http://barexamtoolbox.com/apply-bar-exam-testing-accommodations/) Nine Elements to Review if You Failed the Bar Exam (http://barexamtoolbox.com/nine-elements-review-failed-bar-exam/) Failed the Bar Exam? How to Be the Ultimate Sore Loser the Next Time Around (http://barexamtoolbox.com/failed-the-bar-exam-how-to-be-the-ultimate-sore-loser-to-pass-the-bar-exam-next-time/)  If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! And good luck on the bar exam. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we're talking with Dr. Jared Maloff, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Beverly Hills, California, about helping students get testing accommodations for tests such as the LSAT, law school exams, and the California Bar Exam (to name a few). If you're struggling in law school or with the bar exam or know that you have a learning disorder, listen in to find out what accommodations are available, and now to request them. In this episode we discuss: The different accommodations available for different tests (LSAT, Bar Exam, Law School Exams) The types of tests used for diagnosing learning disorders and disabilities How are these tests evaluated? What are the common diagnoses that lead to accommodations? What type of accommodations are available to students to level the playing field? Reasons why students don't want to get tested How to identify if you are struggling with a learning disorder The biggest mistakes students make in the accommodations process Where do you need to go to get evaluated? The costs associated with accommodations Coping mechanisms for common problems The importance of being proactive about seeking accommodations Resources Leveling the Playing Field - Testing Accommodations on the Bar Exam (http://barexamtoolbox.com/leveling-the-playing-field-testing-accommodations-on-the-bar-exam/) Should You Apply for Bar Exam Testing Accommodations (http://barexamtoolbox.com/apply-bar-exam-testing-accommodations/) How to Apply for Bar Exam Accommodations When Finances are a Concern (http://barexamtoolbox.com/apply-bar-exam-accommodations-finances-concern/) State Dependent Learning and the Bar Exam (http://barexamtoolbox.com/state-dependent-learning-and-the-bar-exam/) Using Resources and Seeking Accommodations in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/leveling-playing-field-using-resource-seeking-accommodations-law-school/) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee

Welcome back. Today we’re talking about the soft skills you need to develop to be a successful attorney. It shouldn’t be shocking to learn that law school doesn’t totally prepare you to be a successful lawyer. Sure, you learn useful skills like legal writing and legal analysis, but building a practice (and a book of business) requires other skills. Some law schools are getting better at offering opportunities for students to gain these skills, but ultimately it's up to you to make sure you're fully ready to practice. Tune in to find out which soft skills are important and how to develop them.  In this episode we discuss: The types of soft skills that tend to make you a successful attorney, regardless of your practice area Why lawyers need to understand how business works (even in public interest organizations) How to work on your business skills How to deal with clients Developing an elevator pitch Tips for public speaking How to communicate effectively with others in the legal workplace Using law school to build these skills Why technological literacy matters to attorneys The value of knowing another language Why you should work on your leadership skills Should you include these soft skills on your resume?  Resources Are you emotionally Intelligent? 5 Soft Skills to Show Off in Your Summer Law Job (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/are-you-emotionally-intelligent-5-soft-skills-to-show-off-in-your-summer-law-job/) You Are a Lawyer Already: Practice Management (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/lawyer-already-practice-management/) Building the 21st Century Lawyer (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-69/) How to Behave like a Professional in the Legal Workplace (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-25-behave-like-professional-legal-workplace/) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee  

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today, we’re talking about how to figure out what type of law to practice. There are more options than most people realize, and your career happiness and success can ride on these decisions, so it’s important to think beyond “litigation or corporate.” Ideally, you’ll find something that uses your unique skills, interests, and background to set yourself apart from the pack. Tune in for ideas on how to decide what's the best fit for you! In this episode we discuss: The different types of law that exist beyond just litigation and corporate work How you can learn what each type of lawyer does Alison and Lee share their experience with different practice areas Should you specialize? Why internships and externships can help you decide what type of law to practice Questions you can ask yourself to decide which type of law is the best fit for you How to test the waters and find out if a certain type of law is a good fit The importance of thinking about your career options early How to use your own unique skills, traits, and background to your advantage Resources Podcast Episode 5: Maintaining Authenticity in the Legal Profession (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-5-maintaining-authenticity-legal-profession/) Podcast Episode 58: Non-Profit Law and Social Entrepreneurship (with Guest Adrian Tirtanadi of Bayview Hunters Point Community Legal) (http://lawschooltoolbox.libsyn.com/058-non-profit-law-and-social-entrepreneurship-with-guest-adrian-tirtanadi-of-bayview-hunters-point-community-legal) Do You Want a BigLaw Job? (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/do-you-want-a-biglaw-job/)  Podcast Episode 66 - Tips for a Successful Law School Internship or Externship (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-66-tips-successful-law-school-internship-externship/) Thinking of Becoming a Solo Practitioner (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/thinking-of-becoming-a-solo-practitioner/) What Does Your Personality Test Say About Your Career (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/what-does-your-personality-test-really-say-about-your-career/) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today Lee is leading a panel discussion about what it takes to succeed as a 21st-Century lawyer. In this discussion, we dive into the characteristics of successful lawyers in today's legal workplace and talk about how to gain those skills and traits while still in law school. Many thanks to Thomson Reuters, the sponsor for this episode. You likely interact with their products every day when you're using useful tools such as WestLaw, TWEN, and Practical Law. Thomson Reuters brings you tools and insights to help you perform your best now and when you go pro as a practicing attorney. You can visit them at lawschool.westlaw.com. We appreciate their support! We would also like to thank the following panelists for participating in the discussion:  Katie Walter, Marketing Director for Law School Business, Thomson Reuters Chris Mammen, Lecturer, UC Hastings College of Law; Partner, Hogan Lovells Diane Downs,  Director of Attorney Recruiting at Morrison and Foerster LLP Dave Maurer, Managing Director/Office Leader for San Francisco, Major, Lindsay & Africa In this episode we discuss: What do law firms want in a candidate? How to present yourself in a hiring situation 4 characteristics that are important in a 21st-Century lawyer Curiosity and why it's important as a law student and young lawyer Mastering a class vs. getting a good grade How to distinguish yourself from other candidates The importance of mastering your craft Why you need to be a good legal writer  How to improve as a writer Mentorship in the legal and law school setting Taking advantage of the resources available to you in law school The importance of feedback  Ways law students who came directly from undergrad can gain valuable workplace experience The importance of building a network as a law student  If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! And thanks again to Thomson Reuters for sponsoring this episode! Alison & Lee  

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Almost every 1L in the country will take some sort of legal research and writing class. Today, we're discussing the top ten LRW disasters we see again and again, so you can avoid them! Many thanks to Thomson Reuters, the sponsor for this episode. You likely interact with their products every day when you're using useful tools such as WestLaw, TWEN, and Practical Law. Thomson Reuters brings you tools and insights to help you perform your best now and when you go pro as a practicing attorney. You can visit them at lawschool.westlaw.com. We appreciate their support! In this episode we discuss: The top ten legal research and writing problems you're likely to face as a law student The importance of planning for the worst Why and how to back up your computer How to manage your LRW time effectively  Why you should have a plan and a schedule for every LRW assignment How to be sure you're clear on what you're being asked to do for each LRW assignment Tools for outlining and organizing information The importance of citations and how to be sure you're doing them correctly Finding help when you need it If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck on your LRW assignments! And thanks again to Thomson Reuters for sponsoring this episode. Alison & Lee Resources: Legal Writing 101 Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-11-legal-writing-101/) Writing Effectively in Your Summer Legal Job (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-45-writing-effectively-summer-legal-job/) Approaching Your Legal Writing Assignment like a Jazz Solo (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/approaching-your-legal-writing-assignment-like-a-jazz-solo/) Four Legal Writing Tips from the Theater (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/four-legal-writing-tips-theatre/) The Link Between Legal Writing and Final Exams (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/link-legal-writing-final-exams/) Tips for Conquering Legal Writing (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/law-school-toolbox-experts-share-tips-for-conquering-legal-writing/) Dos and Don'ts to for Using Sample Documents in Legal Writing (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/dos-donts-using-sample-documents-legal-writing/) From Objective to Persuasive Writing: The Law (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/10818-2/) From Objective to Persuasive Writing: The Facts (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/objective-to-persuasive-writing-part-two/) Trello (www.trello.com)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast. Today we're running through your mid-semester to-do list to ensure you're where you need to be before it's too late. Mid-semester is the time when reality sets in for most law students. Whatever is going on - midterms, sniffles, boredom - it's time to focus on the end goal and get serious about preparation. Here's what you need to be doing, now. In this episode we discuss: How you should handle the next 7-8 weeks The importance of deep work in the second half of the semester Setting up your study calendar Getting ready for finals Ways of tracking your time if you're not sure how it's slipping away Searching for a summer job as a 1L (you can start Dec. 1) Avoiding distractions and battling procrastination How to do a self check-in Where to go for help Stress management techniques and staying healthy How to manage your personal relationships, especially around the holidays and exams If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck the rest of the semester! Alison & Lee Resources: Having an October Freakout? Of Course You Are! (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/having-an-october-freakout-of-course-you-are/) The October Freakout (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/having-an-october-freakout-of-course-you-are/) Your Mid-Semester Reality Check (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-36/) How to Make a Useful Law School Outline (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-65-make-a-useful-law-school-outline/) Dealing With Self-Sabotaging Behavior in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-63-dealing-self-sabotaging-behavior-law-school/) Fast, Healthy and Cheap Meals in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/fast-healthy-and-cheap-eating-in-law-school/) Toggl (https://toggl.com/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast. Today we're talking about how to have a successful law school internship or externship experience. For most law students, these jobs are their first experiences in the legal workplace (or maybe in any professional workplace). Be sure you're behaving like a responsible professional, and you'll set yourself up for success in any internship or externship! In this episode we discuss: What's the difference between an internship and an externship? Different types of internships or externships, and how the expectations vary What should you do (and not do) in a legal workplace? How to be a professional What do people really expect of you? Practical tips for day-to-day scenarios (meetings, phone calls, email, etc.) How to get along with others in the workplace Defining your goals for this experience Traits you should develop to succeed as a lawyer If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck in your internships and externships! Alison & Lee Resources: How to Behave Like a Professional in the Legal Workplace Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-25-behave-like-professional-legal-workplace/) Tips for Legal Writing at Your Summer Job (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/tips-for-legal-writing-at-your-summer-job/) Being a Professional in a Generation Gap Workplace (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/getting-an-offer-being-professional-in-a-generation-gap-workplace/) Writing Effectively in Your Summer Legal Job (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-45-writing-effectively-summer-legal-job/) How to End a Summer Internship on a Good Note (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/end-summer-internship-good-note/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast. Today we're talking about making outlines and other study aids, which are important in helping you make sense of everything you're learning in law school. This episode is based on a question we got from a 1L listener, so don't be shy about reaching out with your own questions! Contact details are below. In this episode we discuss: What is an outline and what is its purpose? Do you really have to make an outline, or are there other viable options? How should you start outlining? What materials you need to start outlining What you should include in your outline The importance of testing your outline How you can get help if you are having problems outlining Common outlining issues we see repeatedly How to handle cases in your study aids If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck with those outlines. Alison & Lee Resources: Using Supplements Effectively in Law School Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-18-using-supplements-effectively-law-school/) Avoiding Law School Exam Disasters Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-41-avoiding-law-school-exam-disasters/) Conquering Different Types of Law Exams Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-19-conquering-different-types-law-school-exams/) Study Strategies for Different Learning Styles in Law School Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-16-study-strategies-different-learning-styles-law-school/) Doing What Makes You Uncomfortable (http://barexamtoolbox.com/how-to-pass-the-bar-by-doing-what-makes-you-the-most-uncomfortable/) Law School Toolbox Tutoring (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/tutoring-for-law-school-success/) Flashcards or Flowcharts: What's Best? (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/flashcards-or-flowcharts-whats-best/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast. Today we’re talking about grit - that quality that lets you get back up and carry on after you've been knocked down. And, every law student is probably going to get knocked down a time or two! In this episode we discuss: Why is grit important in law school?  The harsh realities of law school Why just being "smart" isn't enough any longer Situations where you will need grit in law school How will you handle the bumps in the road when they come? Do you have a plan? Alison and Lee share stories of needing grit in law school How mindfulness can be helpful in tough situations  Whether grit can be cultivated Activities that can help build your "grit" The five characteristics of grit If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee Resources: Angela Lee Duckworth's Grit: The Power of Passion and Perserverance - TED Talk (http://www.ted.com/talks/angela_lee_duckworth_grit_the_power_of_passion_and_perseverance) The Places that Scare You (Pema Chodron on tonglen practice) (https://www.amazon.com/Places-that-Scare-You-Fearlessness/dp/1570629218) Parenting in Law School: Surviving Your 1L Year (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/law-school-kids-surviving-1l-year-raising-family/) Avoiding Disasters in Law School podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-14-avoiding-disasters-law-school/) Maintaining Authenticity in the Legal Profession (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-5-maintaining-authenticity-legal-profession/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we are talking about something lots of law students deal with - self-sabotaging behavior. If you start your day with the best of intentions, but get nothing done by the time it's over, tune in! You're definitely not alone. In this episode we discuss: Why is this such an important topic in law school? What do we mean by self-sabotage? Common ways to self-sabotage as a law student How to balance life and law school  Ways to fight procrastination What are you really responsible for in law school? How to create a study schedule and stick to it  Other methods to create accountability and manage your time Do you need an accountability partner?  How to spot self-sabotaging behavior in yourself and redirect it If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee Resources: Need to Get More Done in Law School? Try the Circles (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/08/tips-time-management-awesomeness-with-the-circles/) Do You Need a Sponsor to Stay Productive in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/do-you-need-a-sponsor-to-stay-productive-in-law-school/) How to Calendar Your Way to Better Grades and More Free Time (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/how-to-calendar-your-way-to-better-grades-and-more-free-time/) How to Stick to Your Goals in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/how-to-stick-to-your-goals-in-law-school/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we are talking about the Socratic Method and law school classes more generally. If you're intimidated by class, tune in for tips on surviving (even if you're unprepared). In this episode we discuss: What is the Socratic Method? Why do law professors use the Socratic Method? Why you shouldn't be afraid of law school class discussions The importance of doing your reading and being prepared for class What should you do if you didn't do the reading? What you can do to make class more bearable What you should and shouldn't be writing down in class How to avoid being called on If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck in class! Alison & Lee Resources: Do I Really Have to Read the Cases? http://lawschooltoolbox.com/1l-question-of-the-day-do-i-really-have-to-read-the-cases/  Top 5 Mistakes Students Make When Prepping for Class (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/top-5-mistakes-students-make-preparing-for-class/) 5 Things to Include in Your Law School Class Notes (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/5-things-to-include-in-your-law-school-class-notes/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we're talking about what 2Ls and 3Ls need to be thinking about as they get into the swing of the later years of law school. If you want to make the most of your final years of law school, stay tuned. In this episode we discuss: How to figure out where you went wrong your first year of school  Tips on how to raise your GPA The importance of getting feedback Should you be taking bar electives? Which ones? When? Do you know your graduation requirements? Understanding your career goals and how to work toward them in law school How to network in law school  How much should you worry about the bar exam now?  Setting yourself up for success in your legal career If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening!  Alison & Lee Resources: How to Raise Your Grades as a 2L or 3L (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-9-raise-grades-2l-3l/) How to Get a Judicial Clerkship (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-44-how-to-get-a-judicial-clerkship/) Thinking Ahead to Get Ready for the Bar Exam (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-26-thinking-ahead-get-ready-bar-exam/) How to Raise Your Grades as a 2L (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/are-you-a-2l-and-wondering-how-you-can-get-better-grades-this-year/) Thinking Ahead: Don't Let the Bar Exam Catch You By Surprise http://barexamtoolbox.com/thinking-ahead-dont-let-bar-exam-catch-surprise/   

Welcome back. Today, we’re talking about 5 things to focus on academically in the first month of law school, to set yourself up for success later on. If you're just starting law school, this episode is for you! In this episode we discuss: Why you should learn to read cases well in the beginning of law school The importance of keeping up with your reading Methods for avoiding distractions and paying attention in class Different methods of note taking Should you handwrite or type your class notes? Why it's important to take advantage of office hours Should you join a study group?  Do you need an accountability partner? Evaluating your schedule and staying accountable How to take legal writing and research seriously without letting it take over your life If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening!  Alison & Lee Resources: Mindset: The Key to Success in Law School? (podcast) http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-1-mindset-key-success-law-school/  Are You Taking Good Law School Class Notes (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/taking-good-law-school-class-notes/) Is Handwriting Notes a Good Thing or Bad Thing (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/is-handwriting-notes-a-good-thing-or-a-bad-thing/) 5 Things to Include in Your Law School Class Notes http://lawschooltoolbox.com/5-things-to-include-in-your-law-school-class-notes/ How to Stick to Your Goals in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/how-to-stick-to-your-goals-in-law-school/) Do You Need a Sponsor to Stay Productive in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/do-you-need-a-sponsor-to-stay-productive-in-law-school/)

Welcome back! Today we're talking about something that comes up for a lot of new and seasoned law students - being lonely or feeling isolated in law school.  Your law school campus is filled with people, so how could anyone feel lonely? You may be surprised that it's a common feeling in law school. These feelings can be problematic, because they can affect your happiness and productivity and can lead you down the path to more serious mental health issues. In this episode we discuss: Lee and Alison talk about their own experiences with loneliness in law school Ways to handle the move to a new city Getting along with varied personalities in law school How to meet people if you are an introvert Strategies for finding a community outside of law school What can you do to feel less isolated and alone? How to stay connected to your support network Handling the inevitable ups and downs of law school The importance of getting help when you need it If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening!  Alison & Lee Resources: How to Survive a Move to a New City for Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/survive-move-law-school/) Start Law School Right Course (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/start-law-school-right/)

Welcome back! Today we're talking about doing good works with Adrian Tirtanadi, founder of Bayview Hunters Point Community Legal, a non-profit legal startup in San Francisco. This is a great episode for anyone who is interested in how access to legal services can change a community and for everyone interested in entrepreneurial non-profit or public interest law. In this episode we discuss: How Adrian started Bayview Hunters Point Community Legal A day in the life of a non-profit Advice for those seeking a path of social entrepreneurship How to get involved in non-profit What NOT to do in your cover letter and resume if you are seeking a job or internship at a non-profit organization The skills you need to succeed as a social entrepreneur What Adrian would have done differently in law school  If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! And give some money to Bayview Hunters Point Community Legal, because they're a great organization. Alison & Lee Resources: Bayview Hunters Point Community Legal (https://bhpcommunitylegal.org/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast. Today, we’re talking about law school Orientation. If you’re getting ready to start law school, tune in! In this episode we discuss: What happens at Orientation? Do you even have to go to Orientation?  Lee and Alison share their Orientation experiences (including a city-wide blackout!) What should you aim to get out of Orientation? How to deal with different personality types How to adjust to being back in school after a professional job Surviving Orientation if you are an introvert Why you need an elevator pitch Who do you go to with post-Orientation questions? If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck in law school! Alison & Lee Resources: Start Law School Right Course (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/start-law-school-right/) Get Off to a Smart Start in Law School (podcast) (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-56-get-smart-start-law-school/) Law School Toolbox Experts Share: Surviving/Optimizing Law School Orientation (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/law-school-toolbox-experts-share-suggestions-for-survivingoptimizing-law-school-orientation/) Reflections on my 1L Orientation (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/reflections-on-my-1l-orientation/)

Welcome back. Today, we’re talking about how to study smart in law school so you can stay on top of your workload and do as well as possible academically, without undue stress and strain.  We talk to a lot of incoming 1Ls, and one of the questions we hear over and over is how to handle the huge workload in law school. It can be incredibly intimidating to start law school, especially if you have never had a job that required you to work a lot of hours on an ongoing basis. So, what can you do to keep things under control?  In this episode we discuss: Challenges that undergrads can face if they go straight to law school  How working prepares you for law school Lee and Alison share how coming from the workforce helped them in law school Managing the expectations of family and friends as you start law school How to structure your time and get rid of distractions How much time should certain tasks take (reading, class prep, deep thinking tasks, etc.) The importance of creating a study calendar Practical techniques for managing your time productively How to stay accountable in law school  Managing your life outside of law school (kids, significant others, emergencies, etc.) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck in law school! Alison & Lee Resources: Need to Get More Done in Law School? Try the Circles! (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/08/tips-time-management-awesomeness-with-the-circles/) How to Stick to Your Goals in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/how-to-stick-to-your-goals-in-law-school/) Start Law School Right Course (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/start-law-school-right/)

Today we’re talking about BigLaw OCI, or on-campus interviewing. This is the annual rite of passage where thousands of law students try to secure BigLaw summer associate positions for the next summer. In this episode, we talk at a high level about all of the aspects of OCI, and you can listen to our earlier OCI episodes for a deeper dive into the specifics of callbacks and initial interviews. In this episode we discuss: How does OCI work, in general?  How different schools handle bidding How do you know what firms to bid on?  How many interviews should you do? What are the interviewers looking for? The callback process How to decide which offer to accept Why you should understand the NALP rules If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Good luck in the job hunt. Alison & Lee Resources: Podcast: Mastering the OCI Process (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-3-mastering-campus-interviewing-oci-process/) Podcast: Callback Tips for BigLaw Summer Associate positions (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-4-callback-tips-biglaw-summer-associate-positions/) Podcast: Maintaining Authenticity in the Legal Profession (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-5-maintaining-authenticity-legal-profession/)  

Welcome back! Today, we’re talking about how to evaluate your summer legal job experience, and how to make sure you leave on good terms. As your summer law job is drawing to a close, here are some ways to ensure you learn as much as you can from the experience. In this episode we discuss: What you need to be thinking about as your summer job comes to a close Handling summer evaluations Are there experiences you still want to have at this job? Lee and Alison share their summer job experiences Evaluating if this type of law or firm is right for you The importance of references from your summer job  What type of feedback are you getting, if any? What can you take away from this job? Is it OK to reach out after you have left and gone back to school? How to leave gracefully and without burning any bridges If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we’re discussing the role of the oral arguments and Moot Court in legal education, with special guest Megan Canty. Megan is a law school tutor with the Law School Toolbox and she is also Director of Academic Success and Bar Exam Preparation at Wayne State University Law School. In this episode we discuss: The role of legal arguments in a law school setting How oral arguments are useful for exams and practice The difference between thinking like a lawyer and communicating like one Lee and Megan's advice for students intimidated by oral arguments How to figure out what facts matter, and which don't  The basics of Moot Court  What will distinguish you from the rest of the class in oral arguments How Moot Court competitions work Why honing your oral argument skills are important, even if you never practice appellate law  If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Alison & Lee Resources: How to Approach a Moot Court Argument (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/how-to-approach-a-law-school-moot-court-argument/) Surviving Law School Moot Court (podcast) http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-37/ 

Welcome back! Today we're talking about how to conquer the bar exam, specifically the MBE. Taking six hours of multiple choice questions is challenging for just about everyone. For some, however, it can be a major speed bump on the road to bar exam success.  Don't let the MBE prevent you from passing the bar exam. We've got some tips and strategies! In this episode we discuss: An overview of the MBE How to find out exactly what's covered What to expect during the MBE on test day Why is the MBE so challenging? What is the best way to study for the MBE? Lee and Alison share their MBE experiences Why practice is so important The right way to practice How much should you worry about timing? What to do if you are really struggling with the MBE If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). And check out our Bar Exam Toolbox website (http://barexamtoolbox.com) for more bar exam advice. Thanks for listening! Best of luck on the bar exam! Alison & Lee Resources: General MBE Information (http://www.ncbex.org/exams/mbe/preparing/) Subject Matter Outlines (http://www.ncbex.org/pdfviewer/?file=%2Fdmsdocument%2F182) Can Taking a Break Save Your MBE Score (http://barexamtoolbox.com/can-taking-break-save-mbe-score/) Yikes I need to Improve My MBE Scores (http://barexamtoolbox.com/yikes-I-need-to-improve-my-mbe-scores/) A Slightly Counterintuitive Way to Study for the MBE (http://barexamtoolbox.com/a-slightly-counterintuitive-way-to-study-for-the-MBE/) Top 5 Study Tips for Conquering the MBE (http://barexamtoolbox.com/top-5-study-tips-for-conquering-the-MBE/) There is Just too Much MBE Law To Learn (http://barexamtoolbox.com/there-is-just-too-much-mbe-law-to-learn/) Bar Study Tips - Preparing for the MBE (http://barexamtoolbox.com/bar-study-tips-preparing-for-the-MBE/)

Welcome back! Today we’ve got an entertaining topic – the eccentric characters you'll meet in law school, along with some tips on law school etiquette (if you don’t want to find yourself on this list in the future).  Now, you might be wondering what we’re talking about. Isn’t law school just a bunch of students studying the law? Haha, as if.  For whatever reason, law school tends to attract a rather eccentric cast of characters, some of whom you’re likely to run into, for better or worse! In this episode we discuss: What is the most notorious law school character type? Other personality types you will meet in law school and how to deal with them The characters Lee and Alison encountered in law school Basic rules of law school etiquette The importance of finding your people  Avoiding relationship drama in law school How "not to behave" in law school  If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Thanks for listening! Best of luck with law school. Alison & Lee Resources: Survive Law School: Find Your People (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/08/surviving-law-school-find-your-people/) The People You Will Meet in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/the-people-you-will-meet-in-law-school/)    

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we are focusing on the bar exam performance test. Joining Lee is guest Doretta McGinnis, one of our highly experienced bar exam and law school tutors.  The performance test portion of the bar exam can be challenging for people, but with these tips you can conquer it and score well. Good luck! In this episode we discuss: Why is the performance test so hard? The importance of following directions closely Is practicing enough? How should you evaluate your work? Why do students put off practice or refuse to do it?  Why you should have a performance test plan  The link between legal writing and the performance test Lee and Doretta share common mistakes students make How to improve your time management How to make the grader's job easy Download the Transcript  (https://lawschooltoolbox.com/episode-50-how-to-ace-the-bar-exam-performance-test-with-doretta-mcginnis/) If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). And check out our bar exam site: Bar Exam Toolbox (http://barexamtoolbox.com). Thanks for listening! Best of luck with the bar exam. Alison & Lee Resources: How Your Legal Writing Class Prepares You for the MPT (http://barexamtoolbox.com/how-your-legal-writing-class-prepares-you-for-the-mpt/) Read More of Doretta's Advice at Bar Exam Toolbox (http://barexamtoolbox.com/author/dorettamcginnis/)

Welcome back! Today, we're talking with Jeremy Blachman and Cameron Stracher, authors of "The Curve," a new novel set in a sinking ship of a law school. It addresses a number of critical issues in legal education today (and might make some people think twice about signing up to pay full tuition at a low-ranked law school offering limited job prospects!). Join us for a wide-ranging discussion on the realities of law school today. *This post contains an affiliate link In this episode we discuss: Why law school isn't a panacea for not knowing what to do with your life Jeremy and Cameron's law school, and post-law school, stories Should you go to law school? What if you really want to be a writer? What should students be thinking about before they commit to law school? Why you should read this book before you go to law school  Words of Wisdom for law students and young lawyers Resources:  The Curve (http://amzn.to/1U0cQv2) The Curve Novel Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/thecurvenovel) The Curve Novel Satirical Website (http://www.seemanhattanlawschool.com/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). Enjoy! And best of luck in law school (if you decide life as a novelist isn't for you). Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we have one of our most experienced bar tutors, Ariel Salzer with us to talk about the essay portion of the bar exam. Many students dread (and even put off) practicing for the essays. We dig into why this is and give helpful tips on how to tackle those essays and find bar exam success.  In this episode we discuss: Why are the bar exam essays so challenging? The favorite strategy for preparing for the bar exam essays Why is practice so important?  Why students refuse to practice Is re-writing worth your time?  Why you need to do what makes you uncomfortable Preparing yourself mentally and emotionally Ariel and Lee share their bar essay experiences The importance of self-evaluation How to study the law to make your essays easier to write What the graders are really looking for How and why to take your timed practice tests How to make the bar exam graders' job easy and get maximum points Resources:  How to Pass the Bar Exam By Doing What Makes you Uncomfortable (http://barexamtoolbox.com/how-to-pass-the-bar-by-doing-what-makes-you-the-most-uncomfortable/) Sketchy Law (http://barexamtoolbox.com/tools-bar-exam-success-sketchy-law/) Lean Sheets (http://barexamtoolbox.com/review-of-lean-sheets-bar-exam-outlines/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). And don't forget about our bar exam site: Bar Exam Toolbox! (http://barexamtoolbox.com) Enjoy! And best of luck with the bar exam. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we're discussing the top five mistakes students consistently make when preparing for the bar exam, with special guest Ariel Salzer. Ariel is one of our most experienced bar exam tutors, so we’re very excited to have her here today to give us a rundown of the biggest mistakes she sees students making – so you can avoid them! We'd like to thank this episode's sponsor, one of our favorite MBE bar prep products, Adaptibar (www.adaptibar.com). With Adaptibar, you can practice with licensed questions released directly from the NCBE and used on past exams, and the program will automatically adjust to focus on your weakest areas. Students also tell us that they love studying on their mobile devices and laptops, and leaving the heavy MBE books at home. Interested? Use code C8UX at checkout for a $55 discount.  Let's get to the show! In this episode we discuss: The single biggest mistake students make when preparing for the bar exam How to take a "training wheels" approach to bar study Why you should do what makes you most uncomfortable Why you need to outline your essay on scratch paper Whether you should practice in exam conditions What does "minimum competency" mean in relation to the bar exam? Fixing your problem areas How you should be tracking what you personally need to work on Why it's valuable to come up with your own attack plans Memorizing in broad strokes vs. finer detail The importance of mindfulness  Resources:  Bar Exam Tutoring with the Bar Exam Toolbox (http://barexamtoolbox.com/private-bar-exam-tutoring/) Adaptibar (https://www.adaptibar.com)  Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact). And don't forget about our bar exam site: Bar Exam Toolbox! (http://barexamtoolbox.com) Enjoy! And best of luck with the bar exam. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we’re talking about some surprising LSAT myths with Nathan Fox, founder of Fox LSAT.  In this episode we discuss: Nathan shares his top myths about the LSAT (some of which are pretty surprising!):          1. You should only take it once          2. You need to finish the sections to score well          3. You should closely monitor your time          4. The logic games are hard In addition: Nathan shares his personal story about why he shouldn't have gone to law school How scholarships work in relationship to how well you do on the LSAT What do law school admissions people really care about?  Alison shares her story about the LSAT and the mistakes she made How to build up endurance for the LSAT Why you need to practice the easy questions as much as the hard ones The importance of the practice exam When you should take the LSAT Why you shouldn't fear the logic games Tips to improve your LSAT score Resources:  Thinking LSAT Podcast (www.thinkinglsat.com) Fox LSAT (www.foxlsat.com) Nathan Fox on Twitter (https://twitter.com/nfox) Don't Go To Law School Just Because Your Good at the LSAT (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/07/dont-go-to-law-school-just-because-youre-good-at-the-lsat/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! And best of luck with the LSAT. Alison & Lee  

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we are talking about writing effectively in a summer legal job. Joining us as a guest is Doretta McGinnis, who has taught Legal Writing for many years and is now a Law School Toolbox tutor.  If you are working this summer in a legal context, tune in for tips on how to shine! In this episode we discuss: How does writing in a legal job context compare to writing in law school?  What will you be writing (and what you probably won't be doing) Handling things you may be asked to do but haven't seen in law school Getting guidance on your assignment and clarifying what you need to produce The importance of maintaining a record of what you do for research assignments What is an employer looking for in a summer employee?  What should you be able to do in your summer job? What should your writing look like?  Objective writing vs. persuasive writing The importance of asking questions Deadlines and how to meet them!  How to anticipate the needs of your supervisor and why it's important to check in What to bring to meetings Getting the backstory on a case Is it ever OK to turn in an incomplete first draft? Behaving like a professional Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! And best of luck at your summer jobs. Alison & Lee Resources: How to Behave Like a Professional in the Legal Workplace (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-25-behave-like-professional-legal-workplace/)

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we are talking with special guest, Fairuz Abdullah, Associate Director of Public Interest Programs and Judicial Clerkships in the office of career and professional development at UC Hastings, about how to get a judicial clerkship! As some of you may know, the clerkship process (at least for federal clerkships) has changed a lot in recent years and Fairuz has just returned from the NALP conference with some very useful information. If you are contemplating a judicial clerkship, be sure to tune in! In this episode we discuss: What the clerkship process looked like in the past vs. now How much have things really changed and what prompted the changes to the clerkship process? What do you need to do at various stages (1L, 2L, 3L, alum) to position yourself for a clerkship How your school can help you find a clerkship What the clerkship application numbers look like lately Who should be applying as early as possible What judges are looking for in their judicial clerks How to build relationships with professors (for letters of recommendation and phone calls on your behalf) What do clerkships pay? The questions you may be asked in your clerkship interview Alternatives to federal clerkships, like state and international courts Fairuz and Alison's advice for someone who really wants a clerkship Resources:  Federal Courts U.S. Courts (http://www.uscourts.gov/) Online System for Application and Review (https://oscar.uscourts.gov/) State Courts National Center for State Courts (http://www.ncsc.org/) Vermont Law School State Court Clerkship Guide (http://forms.vermontlaw.edu/career/guides/) (paid subscription by your law school) California Supreme/Appellate Court info (http://www.courts.ca.gov/careers.htm) Insight and Information for State Court Clerkships on NALP Connect (http://www.nalp.org/nalpconnect) (law school career office can access) Federal ALJ Post Graduate Clerkships Guide on NALP Connect  (http://www.nalp.org/nalpconnect) (law school career office can access) International Courts International Justice and Resource Center (http://www.ijrcenter.org) Opportunities with International Tribunals and Foreign Courts (https://www.law.yale.edu/system/files/area/department/cdo/document/CDO_International_Tribunals_Public.pdf) (Yale Guide) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! And best of luck securing a clerkship! Alison & Lee

Welcome back to the Law School Toolbox podcast! Today we’re talking about how to get mentally prepared for the challenges of starting law school. These challenges might be academic in nature, or more personal. Luckily, there are techniques you can use on any type of challenge to ensure you’re moving forward and keeping things under control. Not sure what you really need to be worrying about this summer? Tune in and find out! In this episode we discuss: Is law school really that challenging?  Handling the volume of work you will see in law school The importance of time management How to plan your schedule Ariel's tip for finding self-motivation after a tough day Why mindset matters and failure is OK The importance of self-reflection Getting a support network in place before a crisis situation Planning ahead for difficult situations Resources: The Rise of Gentleman's As and the GPA arms race (https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/the-rise-of-the-gentlemans-a-and-the-gpa-arms-race/2016/03/28/05c9e966-f522-11e5-9804-537defcc3cf6_story.html) Mindset- The Key To Success in Law School Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-1-mindset-key-success-law-school/) The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown (http://www.amazon.com/Gifts-Imperfection-Think-Supposed-Embrace/dp/159285849X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1461348008&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Gifts+of+Imperfection) Rising Strong by Brene Brown (http://www.amazon.com/Rising-Strong-Bren%C3%A9-Brown/dp/0812995821/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1461347962&sr=1-1&keywords=Rising+Strong) Mindset by Carol Dweck (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0345472322/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0345472322&linkCode=as2&tag=lawschtoo-20&linkId=WWLQ67H3M3IHO4NT) What Grit Looks Like in the Classroom (http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2015/07/what-grit-lookslike-in-the-classroom/399197/) Take an Exam With Us Podcast (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-22-take-exam-us/) Start Law School Right Course (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/start-law-school-right/) Free Start Law School Right Workshop (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/join-the-free-start-law-school-right-workshop/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! And best of luck starting law school! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we are discussing the Law Review write-on competition and why you should (or shouldn't) participate. We've also got tips for success, should you decide you want to do it. In this episode we discuss: The variety of "law reviews" of different types Who has to do the writing competition, typically Alison and Lee share their law review experiences Why you may want to do law review and why it can be important for your career (and why you might not want to!) The basics of the writing competition How to prepare for the writing competition Why you need a Bluebook (and need to be familiar with it) Why citations make a difference What the graders are looking for, and how you can make them happy What you should do when you get your law review writing competition packet The importance of backing up your work How to handle the diversity essay Resources: How to Write a Law Review Note Worthy of Publication (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/how-to-write-a-law-review-note-worthy-of-publication/) Ms. JD partners with NYU Law Review (http://ms-jd.org/blog/article/ms.-jd-partners-with-nyu-law-review-to-re-launch-our-annual-law-review-dive) What You Need to Know About Getting Onto Law Review (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-getting-onto-law-review/) How to Get Answers From the Bluebook (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/get-answers-bluebook/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! And best of luck with the writing competition. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we're talking about avoiding exam disasters, even when you're not as prepared as you might want to be. It's not too late to pull things together, but there's no time to waste! In this episode we discuss: What can you do if you just aren't ready for finals? How to catch up on your outlines and other study aids How to make the most of the time you have left (whether it's weeks or even days) How to triage and make the most of the time you have Making a study schedule  Looking at your learning style and using it to make the most of your studying Evaluating what's most important to memorize How to be distraction-free Avoiding the drama Dealing with situations that could pop up during the exam How to regroup and reenergize after one exam to get ready for the next Resources: Need to Get More Done in Law School? Try the Circles! (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/08/tips-time-management-awesomeness-with-the-circles/) Ancient and Proven Ways to Improve Memory (http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/24/upshot/an-ancient-and-proven-way-to-improve-memory-go-ahead-and-try-it.html?smid=nytcore-ipad-share&smprod=nytcore-ipad&_r=1) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! And best of luck on your exams. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we're talking about what incoming law school students should be doing or thinking about this summer to get ready for law school (if anything!). Before you go overboard and pre-read supplements for every class, stop! Take a breath, and use our strategies to get ready for your first year of law school in style, without ruining your whole summer.  In this episode we discuss: Lee and Alison share their experiences getting ready for law school Finding housing that fits your lifestyle and needs Thinking about your creature comforts What do you really need to buy? (It's less than you think!) Why you may not want to run out and buy a new laptop right away Preparing the people in your life for your new law school life Setting boundaries for loved ones  The right way to leave your current job What academic preparations do you need to make? What supplements should you read (and which ones not to)? Why it's important to start thinking about your legal career now, before school starts Resources: How to Conduct Great Informational Interviews (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/how-to-conduct-great-informational-interviews/) Fast, Healthy, and Cheap Eating in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/fast-healthy-and-cheap-eating-in-law-school/) Law School Confidential (http://www.amazon.com/Law-School-Confidential-Complete-Experience/dp/0312605110) Start Law School Right Course (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/start-law-school-right/) Start Law School Right - Free Workshop Series (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/join-the-free-start-law-school-right-workshop/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! And best of luck in law school. Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we’re talking about everyone’s favorite topic – Test Anxiety. Okay, not really anyone’s favorite topic, but a really important one because so many law students deal with test anxiety in law school and on the bar exam. In this episode we discuss: Lee and Alison discuss their experience with exam anxiety Your physiological response during exam prep and exams Why stress isn't all bad The importance of taking care of yourself in law school The correlation between anxiety and lack of sleep How to calm your mind and focus Coping mechanisms when you're blanking on a test How meditation and mindfulness can help alleviate stress and test anxiety Why it's important to control how you talk to yourself in stressful situations When you may need to explore other options for alleviating anxiety with an expert Meditation is not just for hippies - snipers and other elite athletes, soldiers, and high profile people do it, too!  Resources: Performing Under Pressure Before and After the Exam (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/performing-under-pressure-before-after-exam/) Caution Law Student Pressure Ahead (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/caution-law-student-pressure-handling-law-school-stress/) Defending Law School Pressure - Leading Up to the Exam (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/defending-law-school-pressure-leading-exam/) Law School Pressure - The Night Before and Morning of the Exam (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/law-school-pressure-night-before-morning-of/) Podcast: Handling Pressure in Law School (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/podcast-episode-29-handling-pressure-law-school-guest-dr-hank-weisinger/) Tips for Surviving Exam Anxiety (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/tips-surviving-exam-anxiety/) Law School and Mental Health http://lawschooltoolbox.com/law-school-and-mental-health Pema Chodron – The Places that Scare You (http://www.amazon.com/The-Places-that-Scare-You/dp/1570629218) HeadSpace App for Meditation (https://www.headspace.com/headspace-meditation-app) Warrior One (http://warriorone.com/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today's episode is about a very important topic: financial considerations before, during, and after law school. If you're thinking about taking out law school loans, or you already have, this one is for you!  In this episode we discuss: Why is law school debt such a huge issue for so many people?  What is the average law student debt?  The causes of this staggering debt load Pros and cons of the alternative approaches to pay off your loans Downsides of IBR and LRAP that might not be obvious How to make sure you understand what you are in for and what the payoff will be for loans before you accept them Whether schools are lying about your job prospects Types of student loans and how they work Scholarship options, and why you need to be clear about how likely you are to keep a scholarship after the first year (hint - it might be a lot harder than you expect!) Alison shares her experience negotiating financial aid with her school Tips to save money as a law student Potential side hustles for law students Resources: Federal Financial Aid Options (LSAC) (http://www.lsac.org/jd/financing-law-school/financial-aid-options#federal) Financial Aid Overview (LSAC) (http://www.lsac.org/jd/financing-law-school/financial-aid-overview) Ask Heather Jarvis (http://askheatherjarvis.com) Law School Transparency Project (http://www.lawschooltransparency.com/) Law School Myth: Lawyers Make A Lot of Money (http://thegirlsguidetolawschool.com/09/law-school-myth-1-lawyers-make-a-lot-of-money/) Law School Survey of Student Engagement (http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/academic_support/2016/02/lssse-upcoming-report-.html) Defusing the Student Loan Interest Tax (https://lawyerist.com/83690/defusing-student-loan-interest-tax-bomb/) Loan Payment Calculator (http://www.finaid.org/calculators/loanpayments.phtml) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we are talking about how to find success during law school Moot Court. This can be a stressful experience for any law student, especially those with a fear of public speaking. Using these strategies to rock Moot Court and ace your oral arguments.   In this episode we discuss: What is Moot Court? How different law schools structure Moot Court Why is Moot Court so challenging? Writing a successful Moot Court brief Creative ways to prepare for your oral argument Keeping your cool during oral arguments What to do if your Moot Court is pass/fail How to dress for success Other ways you can partake in oral arguments Resources: How to Prepare for Oral Argument (https://lawyerist.com/40693/how-to-prepare-for-oral-argument/) How to Approach a Moot Court Argument (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/how-to-approach-a-law-school-moot-court-argument/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! Alison & Lee

Time for a mid-semester reality check! Second semester is interesting in law school because you're in a different position than you were last semester. You have a set of final exams under your belt and you may feel a little more prepared than last semester. Conversely, you may also have more obligations outside of the classroom, like job hunting, extracurricular activities, and moot court -- which can lead to misconceptions about where you should be academically mid-semester. It's time to get real. But don't stress! Here is your (helpful) mid-semester reality check.  In this episode we discuss: How often should you be outlining? The importance of practice Steps to writing legal analysis Making the most of your professors' office hours Handling all the extra things you may face in your second semester (job hunting, moot court, etc.) Time management tips for the rest of the semester Why self-care is so important Free resources in law school that are available to you and why you should use them! Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we are discussing extracurricular activities in law school. You may be tempted to focus exclusively on studying and maintaining your grades, but extracurricular activities can help break up the monotony of law school and bolster your resume for the future. Do too many, however, and you might flunk out! As with many things, balance is key for a successful law school experience. This episode explores what's available, and offers suggestion on where to most productively spend your time. In this episode we discuss: The most common law school extracurricular activities which might be worth your time Ways to make less than stellar grades look more impressive Whether you should join Law Review or a different law journal The ins and outs of moot court Different types of competitions that might be of interest Clubs, Community Involvement, and Other School-Related and non-School-Related Activities Lee and Alison share their thinking about which extracurriculars they opted to do in law school  Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! Alison & Lee

Welcome back! Today we are going to be talking about one of the most important decisions you will make as a lawyer - which law school to go to. If you are a pre-law struggling with your decision, we've got tips on how to critically evaluate your choices to make the best decision for you.  In this episode we discuss: How to dig into the law school data to make an informed decision on which law school to attend What do law school rankings really mean?  Being thoughtful about the opportunities you want and location you want to be in Why Lee and Alison chose the schools they did The importance of spending time on campus, meeting professors, and questioning students and recent graduates Managing the cost of law school and scholarship tips Should you attend an alternative law school (online, part-time)? Why maybe you should just be a barista! Resources: Law School Transparency Project (http://www.lawschooltransparency.com/) Thanks for listening! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! Alison & Lee

Happy 4th birthday to the Law School Toolbox! After reflecting on what we've learned from working with hundreds of law students over the past four years, we've compiled our top 10 tips to help you be a successful and happy law student. Enjoy! In this episode we discuss: Lee and Alison's favorite posts and advice from the past four years Why mindset matters so much in law school How to receive and use feedback to grow as a law student Why law school is a "learned" skill Why you should think about your law career from day one Why being able (and willing) to hustle is so important The biggest stress point for law students Why practice is so important How to prepare for the bar exam through law school, instead of at the last minute How, where, and when to get help in law school Why you might want to create your own definition of success Tips on how to take care of yourself in law school and why it's so important Thanks for listening, and we're looking forward to many more great years ahead! If you enjoy the podcast, we'd love a nice review and/or rating on iTunes. And feel free to reach out to us directly. You can always reach us via the contact form on the Law School Toolbox website (http://lawschooltoolbox.com/contact).  Enjoy! Alison & Lee