The Summer Law Institute by Legal Outreach - Should You Apply?

Exploring law can be a difficult field for middle school students – after all, the field is specialized and requires a lot of background knowledge, which could be intimidating for beginners hoping to learn more. 

That is why engaging in law and policy programs like the Summer Law Institute can be a great way for students to begin their journey in pre-law. These programs offer valuable exposure to legal studies, critical thinking, and public speaking, setting participants apart in the competitive college admissions process. 

Interested? Keep reading to learn more! 

What is The Summer Law Institute?

The Summer Law Institute is a five-week program for eighth graders hosted by top law schools in New York City:

• Brooklyn Law School, Brooklyn

• Cardozo School of Law, Manhattan

• Columbia Law School, Manhattan

• CUNY School of Law, Queens

• Fordham University School of Law, Manhattan

• NYU School of Law, Manhattan

• John’s University Law School, Queens

The program provides a comprehensive introduction to criminal justice through daily classroom instruction, interactive sessions with legal professionals, and field trips to legal institutions. The program culminates in a mock trial, where students apply their learned skills. SLI aims to inspire and prepare students for high school and beyond by fostering critical thinking, public speaking, and a deeper understanding of the legal system.

Is The Summer Law Institute prestigious?

Yes, the Summer Law Institute (SLI) is prestigious due to its association with top law schools like Columbia and NYU, its rigorous curriculum focusing on criminal justice, and its comprehensive approach to legal education through hands-on activities and interactions with legal professionals. Additionally, SLI graduates often continue into the College Bound program, further enhancing their academic and career prospects.

The program only accepts 30 students, so the application process will be competitive! 

What is the structure of The Summer Law Institute?

The Summer Law Institute is a structured five-week program held from first week of July to first week of August. Students will take classes on criminal law topics such as stop and frisk, search and seizure, evidence, arraignment, and bail. These classes are complemented by interactive activities, including field trips to courts and legal institutions and daily sessions with legal professionals. Students also engage in mock trials, which will take place in front of real judges! 

Upon completion of the program, students will be invited to apply for College Bound, their four-year, comprehensive academic enrichment, professional preparation, and leadership development program for ninth grade students. The four-year program is designed to help students build the skills that will ensure their success in college, graduate school, and beyond. 

What does a typical day as a Summer Law Institute student look like?

A typical day at the Summer Law Institute starts at 9:00 AM with engaging classroom lessons on criminal law topics, designed to foster critical thinking and legal knowledge. Mid-morning sessions feature interactive discussions with legal professionals, providing real-world insights and mentorship. After a lunch break, students embark on field trips to courts and other legal institutions, gaining firsthand exposure to the judicial system. The day concludes with practical exercises and preparation for the program’s mock trial, ending at 4:00 PM.

How can I apply for The Summer Law Institute? Who is eligible?

Eighth-grade students from Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens are eligible to apply for the Summer Law Institute. Although students from Staten Island can participate, the program does not actively recruit from this borough. 

The application process involves several steps. Prospective students need to submit an application form, a parent/guardian form, two teacher recommendations, and a copy of their eighth-grade report card. Applications open in September and typically close in the late fall. Information sessions and interviews are part of the process, and applicants are usually notified of their acceptance status in the spring.

How much does it cost to attend The Summer Law Institute?

The Summer Law Institute is free for most families. Additionally, students who successfully complete the program receive a stipend, making it financially accessible and supportive for participants.

What are the pros and cons of this program?

Now that we understand more about the program, let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of The Summer Law Institute.

Pros:

1. You will explore law in engaging and informative classes.

The program offers a comprehensive curriculum on criminal justice topics, providing a solid foundation in legal principles. Students learn through interactive lectures and discussions, which help in understanding complex legal concepts. This exposure ignites interest in law and builds critical thinking skills. Participants gain insights into the legal system's workings, preparing them for further academic pursuits.

2. You get to practice in front of a real judge.

One of the highlights of the program is the mock trial, where students present their cases before an actual judge. This experience is invaluable, offering a real-world application of what they've learned. It enhances public speaking and argumentation skills, boosting confidence. Students also receive feedback from legal professionals, which helps in refining their techniques.

3. You will get to visit law school campuses during the program.

The program is hosted at prestigious law schools such as Columbia and NYU, giving students a taste of college life. This environment is inspiring and motivating, showing students what they can aspire to achieve. Walking the halls of these institutions helps demystify higher education. It also provides an opportunity to interact with law students and faculty, further enriching the learning experience.

4. The program is low cost and affordable.

The Summer Law Institute is free for most families, removing financial barriers to participation. Additionally, students receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program. This financial support ensures that all students, regardless of their economic background, can benefit from this opportunity. It makes the program accessible and equitable, broadening its impact.

5. You will gain transferable skills that apply in high school and beyond.

Participants develop a range of skills, including critical thinking, public speaking, and legal reasoning. These skills are valuable not just in law but in any academic or professional field. The program's emphasis on discipline, preparation, and presentation equips students for high school challenges. It also lays a strong foundation for college and career readiness, making participants well-rounded individuals.

6. You get to participate in further opportunities like College Bound.

Graduates of the Summer Law Institute are eligible for the College Bound program, which offers four years of academic support and college preparation. This continuity ensures that students receive ongoing guidance and resources as they progress through high school. College Bound includes mentoring, SAT preparation, and help with college applications. This extended support significantly enhances students' chances of success in higher education.

7. The program boosts your college admission prospects.

Participation in the Summer Law Institute can be a standout feature on college applications, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence and an interest in law. The skills and experiences gained from the program make students more attractive candidates to colleges. The rigorous curriculum and unique opportunities provided by the institute show a willingness to challenge oneself. This can set applicants apart in the competitive college admissions process, potentially leading to acceptance at prestigious institutions.

Cons:

1. You will have an intensive schedule.

The program's five-day-a-week, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM schedule over five weeks can be demanding and exhausting for some students. It leaves little time for other summer activities or relaxation. The rigorous daily routine requires a high level of commitment and energy. Students need to manage their time effectively to balance the program with personal life.

2. You need to be an NYC student to apply.

The program is limited to students from Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens, excluding those from outside New York City. Out-of-city students cannot benefit from this opportunity. This geographical restriction limits its accessibility. Not all interested students can apply due to the limited reach.

Our Thoughts

The Summer Law Institute offers an exceptional opportunity for eighth graders to dive into the world of law through engaging classes, practical experiences, and interactions with legal professionals. Its intensive schedule and commitment requirements might be challenging, but the program's benefits, including skill development and exposure to prestigious law schools, make it worthwhile. The cost-free nature and additional support through the College Bound program further enhance its appeal. Despite its geographical limitations, the Summer Law Institute stands out as a transformative experience for aspiring young students interested in law.

If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper in a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far, and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. 

You can find the application link here

One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you are interested in doing university-level research in law or other subjects, which can become a topic to talk about in your college application, then you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.

Lydia is currently a junior at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She aims to become a life sciences consultant after graduation.