In real estate, the most important factor is location. In law, the most important factor might very well be perspective. What will the practice of law mean to you? Will it be your way of life, or will it weigh on your life? You may find yourself pondering such questions as your mind drifts away from those case notes you should be reading for your next class. Here are some thoughts to allay your concerns.

Success Factor #1: Be Committed to Law School
Law school requires commitment and dedication. Make the decision to get as much out of law school as it can offer. Law school and lawyering is challenging, exciting, and can even be fun. Take the task seriously, and put in every reasonable effort during your school years. But, above all, keep your dedication to law school in balance with the rest of your life; integrate both in a healthy and meaningful manner.

Success Factor #2: Keep Your Objectives in Mind
Most law school students aim to become lawyers and to have long and fulfilling careers in the legal profession. While many misconceptions persist about what lawyers do, due largely to how their role is defined by popular culture, in reality there are many varied career choices available to those who hold law degrees. Lawyers are counselors, interviewers, defenders, proponents, negotiators, advocates, and much more.

Success Factor #3: Job versus Career
While a person may spend as much time on the job as off it, the time spent at work may not always be overly satisfying. We all know the old adage, "There is a reason why they call it work." It goes without saying that the situation is alleviated if you feel passion for what you do for a living.

Many attorneys have a passion for their work, whether it be prosecuting alleged criminals, defending people on death row, or representing the local shoe store or mega corporation. As you proceed through law school, carefully consider which path of the law you wish to practice. What could you feel passionate about for a long time?