For all of the planners out there, checklists can be extremely helpful in your last year of law school. So, we created a checklist to help you navigate some of your possible graduation requirements and necessities.
Graduation eligibility
Complete a degree audit to confirm your eligibility to graduate and inform yourself of any outstanding requirements If eligible, complete a pro bono audit to confirm you are on track for graduation and for admission to the New York bar Complete any outstanding degree requirements Submit your senior writing requirement or journal comment before final exams, if required and not already completed Apply to graduate pursuant to university specifications
Commencement tickets
Confirm the number of commencement tickets you’re eligible to receive. If necessary, apply for extra tickets or join the waitlist for extra tickets Confirm your guest list for commencement weekend Retrieve graduation tickets and announcement cards Return or ‘gift’ any unused tickets ASAP If you’re feeling fancy, send announcement cards
Reservations / bookings
Make dinner and/or brunch reservations for commencement day Book graduation photo slot (or plan to take them yourself before commencement) Book accommodations for guests if they’re not staying with you, or confirm guests have obtained accommodations if you’re not handling the bookings for them Obtain visitor parking permit for guests if necessary Confirm guests travel arrangements, including arrival and departure date(s) and time(s). Reserve a moving truck if you’re leaving the city/state permanently after graduation
Purchases / rentals
Rent or purchase academic regalia as required by your university Purchase or pick a graduation outfit, if you do not already have one If desired, purchase a diploma frame, but make sure to confirm the diploma size and orientation before ordering If desired, purchase commencement apparel and/or a grad ring
Bar requirements / employment requirements / visa requirements
Request your law school certificate be mailed immediately after commencement to complete your bar application Send final transcripts to your employer or potential employer, if required Obtain an extension on your F-1 visa if you’re an international student planning to study for the bar exam in the USA
Miscellaneous
Clear out your locker and/or journal or board office space Send transitional memos or files to pertinent incoming journal board or student organization member(s) Return any library books Plan, or attend, a farewell gathering with your classmates or law school friends during commencement weekend, or immediately before/after Carve out time to say goodbye to your favorite professors, advisors, mentors, etc. Apply for any summer funding opportunities, recognition awards or scholarships, and/or post-graduation fellowships or internships Cancel or put a hold on city-specific memberships if you’re leaving the city after graduation Terminate your lease and cancel utilities if you’re leaving the city permanently after graduation And of course, crush all your final law school exams
Want to get your hands on a bar exam checklist as well?
Get that here.
