It’s socially acceptable to shit on math (in America at least). It’s politically incorrect to dislike “travel” or “dogs.” And it’s considered weird to not sign up for an expensive bar prep course.
Even though I have a lot to say about all of these, let’s stick to the topic and address that last one about bar review courses.
Unless you were already exposed to the idea of alternate paths such as self-study, you probably naturally assumed that you NEEDED to go with a bar prep company after graduation. The question was framed as “what’s the best bar course” rather than “should I take a bar course?” You were bombarded with offers from the usual suspects since day one.
So it’s not your fault. Also, there’s nothing wrong with using a course per se, as long as you use it properly.
It’s just that you don’t NEED a course. You don’t NEED a tutor. You don’t have to spend $10,000 or $4,000 or anything close to that (besides registration fees) every time you take this test. (I’ll show you how below.)
I’m not wagging my finger saying you must or mustn’t enroll in a bar prep course. The right investments for you will pay off. I’m just saying you can think about it and consciously decide for yourself.
Start by checking for any internal narratives you may have about what you need to buy to prepare for the bar exam. I’ll help you reexamine the default assumptions born from “big bar” lobbying by answering these questions:
- What are the drawbacks of “big box” bar programs?
- What can you do instead to address these drawbacks?
- What are the benefits of big bar courses?
- Should you sign up for one? (It depends)
- How do you prepare for the bar exam without a prep course or a big budget?
Continue reading “Bar Preparation Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive”
