In addition to the study of legal principles, law students at Illinois enjoy a variety of learning opportunities that apply principles to practice. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, research, pre-trial and trial skills, negotiation, and interviewing are critical skills needed for real-world success.
Beginning in the first year, students receive instruction and practice in critical lawyering skills, including client interviewing and oral advocacy. During the second and third years, students “learn by doing” in these live-client and professional skills courses.
Because these courses synthesize material studied elsewhere within the curriculum, students and alumni report that these active learning programs are among the most meaningful experiences that they have at the College of Law.
“As a first-generation law student, I truly appreciate the opportunity to not only advance my advocacy skills, but also to consider what types of law interest me the most.”
Ashley Bussell ’26
Immigration Law Clinic students achieve asylum decision in clients’ favor
The emotion of a judge announcing a decision in favor of your client is unlike any other, as Marco Becerra ’24 and Akshay Krishnamani ’24 learned in Immigration Court when their clients were granted asylum.
First Amendment Clinic students present argument before the Sixth Circuit
The experience of preparing a case for federal court was nearly overwhelming, but Lilian Alexandrova ‘24 and Jonathan Resnick ‘24 agreed it was among the most consequential aspects of their legal education.