Are you suffering from loneliness during your first year of law school? Don’t worry – there are many ways to overcome this problem! As someone who was recently a 1L, I know the feeling all too well. Fortunately, these lonely feelings, and law school in general, are only temporary.
As a first year law student, there are many things to deal with, learn, and figure out. Sometimes, you figure those things out quickly! Like, getting used to your class schedule or creating a weekly meal prep menu. But, some things take a little more time and effort. Fortunately, the flood of feelings you will experience during law school are all normal! You are worth it and you are meant to be here. You chose to go to law school for some sort of reason, so embrace it all!
Law students often feel isolated in their studies, especially during the first year. It may start to feel like all you do is study in a room alone. Law school is difficult and competitive, which can feel shocking at first. But, feeling lonely doesn’t mean that you need to give up on your goals. Here are some tips for coping with and overcoming loneliness during your first year of law school!
Join a Study Group or Club
Starting your first year, you might not know anyone! If you are feeling lonely, the #1 thing you can do is be around people more often. Put yourself in more situations where you can interact with more people, while still being productive. If you’re struggling with loneliness, join a study group! There are many students that like to create study groups. You don’t have to be in it forever, but you might just find a great set of people to keep you company during the most stressful study sessions.
Clubs in law school are also a great way to meet people and cope with loneliness during law school. I regret not joining any clubs or branching out more. Your studies are #1, but clubs in law school are way less demanding because everyone is busy. This will help you meet new people and make friends. Clubs are also great because they can involve topics within law that you might want to learn more about. Also, there’s lots of free food!
Keep in Touch with Friends and Family
Law school is demanding, but your mental health is the most important thing! Especially if you are in a different place for school, your close friends and family are great resources during your law school journey. If you have a good relationship with them, they can help keep you grounded.
Personally, I keep in touch with all of my loved ones, including my long-distance boyfriend. I have found that it feels great to vent to someone who isn’t going through what you are. I have found some of the best support from my close circle outside of law school. You should definitely talk to your family and friends because they will be able to offer advice, support, and encouragement when things get tough.
Practice Self Care and Stress Management
Stress management is one of the most important lessons that I have learned during law school. You can’t be your best academic self if you are mentally a mess! I have learned the importance of sleep, eating well, exercise, and good quality REST. Simply put, take care of yourself! Find what calms you down.
Make a reasonable schedule for yourself that you can follow, but also schedule in times for rest and self care. Trust me, things will be busy. However, you will thank me when you find some time to slow down and take some time for yourself. When you are managing your stress, you will also find it easy to manage feelings of loneliness.
Get Involved with Your Community
Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming to be around your law school peers, even during times of loneliness. It can be a reminder of the stress. Get involved with your law school community, but don’t forget the rest of the world! Getting involved with your community can include volunteering, going to organized community events, exploring a new coffee shop to study at, shopping at a new local business or farmer’s market, attending concerts, or going out to enjoy nature.
