(Re-published with permission of DePaul College of Law)

After the successful inaugural session of the First Generation in Law Scholars Program (FGLP) this summer, DePaul Law welcomes the University of Illinois College of Law as a partner to continue to build the program. 

The goal of the three-year, summer program is to encourage diversity in the law profession by investing in first-generation students, with a focus on historically underrepresented groups and students who demonstrate a passion for STEM-related disciplines and law. 

Ten rising college freshmen participated in the first session in June. They visited local law firms, participated in a mock trial, and connected with their mentors. 

During the second summer, scholars receive an orientation to LSAT preparation and continue to enhance their knowledge of the legal profession by shadowing a local attorney. During their third summer, scholars serve as paid interns and take an intensive LSAT preparation course. 

The University of Illinois College of Law will leverage its deep connections with the Chicago legal community to assist in placing students in internships, planning visits to law firms, and fundraising.  

“We are excited to partner with an institution that is equally as committed to diversifying the legal profession as we are," said DePaul Law Dean Jennifer Rosato Perea. “The University of Illinois College of Law will bring its expertise and networks to provide great opportunities for our first-generation scholars. This partnership leverages our strengths."

“Nothing is more important to the legal profession than creating rich and robust pipelines for the recruitment and training of future lawyers," said University of Illinois College of Law Dean Vikram Amar. “The goals of this particular program are extremely worthwhile, and we thank DePaul Law for inviting us to work with them on this laudable project."

Applications for the second cohort of scholars are due in the spring. More information is on DePaul Law's website.