In the fast-paced global job market of today, the fields of law and STEM offer not just growth, but explosive growth opportunities. Middle and high school students are at a stage where they can explore various career options and develop a passion for subjects that align with their interests, skills, and the demands of the labor market. Studying law and STEM can equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

As educators, you hold a pivotal role in shaping the futures of your students. Your influence is not limited to the classroom but extends to guiding them toward prosperous and fulfilling careers in the legal and STEM fields. These fields offer a plethora of lucrative opportunities that may not be familiar to parents or other adults in students’ lives, making your role even more crucial.

Educators can spark lifelong passions in students. They can ignite interest in these disciplines by providing insight into real-world applications and by exposing students and parents to these fields through interactive and engaging learning experiences, pre-law programs and workshops, hands-on activities, informational and educational webinars, projects, internships, job shadowing, counseling, internships, networking opportunities and guest lectures featuring legal professionals in fields such as privacy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), technology, social media, finance, sports, human rights, environmental law, patent law, trademark, copyright, marketing, health care, self-driving automobiles, and more.

Furthermore, educators can show how STEM intersects with legal principles, regulations, and legal strategy development in solving complex real-world problems. For example, students can explore the ethical implications of AI technology and robotics, the legal frameworks governing online media and entertainment, and the role of STEM innovations in shaping health care policies.

To inspire students to pursue careers in law, educators can provide guidance on recommendations for relevant high school courses and law-related extracurricular activities, as well as practical ways to prepare for law school, navigate the admissions process, and select the right law school.

By offering resources such as books, articles, podcasts, social media channels, study materials, mock tests, and informational sessions on legal careers, educators can equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits. Educators must coach students and their parents in understanding the pathway of a legal career, from pre-law school activities and the law school application process to professional options like rising to managing partner at a law firm or general counsel of a global corporation.

By providing exposure, guidance, information, and support, educators and school leaders can serve as beacons of inspiration. They can guide students toward transformative careers in law and STEM. They can foster generations of legal innovators and leaders poised to tackle global challenges and create a brighter, more equitable world for all.


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About the Author

Laurie Robinson Haden is the author of Preparing for a Career in the Legal Profession: For High School and College Students Interested in Becoming Lawyers. An award-winning attorney, she has worked for major law firms, and she worked in the legal department of CBS Corporation for nearly two decades. She is the CEO of Corporate Counsel Women of Color, a nonprofit trade association.