Drake Law unveils student portfolios

Law schools are under fire for failing to prepare students for practice. At Drake University Law School, teaching students how to practice law has always been our focus, long before it became trendy. The next generation of Drake graduates will prove it.

Beginning with the 2013 entering class, Drake students will be required to prepare an electronic portfolio containing short videos and documents evidencing the students’ proficiencies. Students will work with their advisors to update and improve the portfolio contents as well as their skills as they progress through school. Employers will have easy access electronically and contents will vary by student interest.

Andrea Charlow, associate dean of the Law School, says, “Unlike many law schools, Drake professors have practiced law and bring that experience into substantive classes, the way it occurs in ‘real life’: our students regularly try felony cases, draft and lobby legislation and argue cases before the State Supreme Court.”

Jennie Zwagerman, director of career development at Drake Law, says “For employers who base hiring decisions on one interview, an easily accessible video and portfolio offers a chance to take a deeper look into how a student handles real practice situations.”

At a time when law schools are being criticized, Drake Law is taking positive steps to help students prove they are ready to practice law. At Drake, the proof is in the portfolio. For more information about the student portfolios at Drake University Law School, contact Andrea Charlow, associate dean, at andrea.charlow@drake.edu or 515-271-2066.