IDEAL Pipeline Program
The Experience*
*Activities and timeline subject to change
Summer I - Prep Program (Hybrid)
July 5 - August 7, 2023
Students are enrolled in and complete Fordham’s Pre-Law Summer Institute. The Fordham Law Pre-Law Institute is a 6-week online summer course designed to give undergraduate students and graduates insight into the law school experience and an introduction to foundational subjects in U.S. law. The program also includes a dialogue with a judge, a virtual visit to a law firm, and a panel on public interest lawyering. In addition, optional sessions prepare students for the law school admissions process and the first year of law school. ** students are eligible to receive 3 college credits
- Participate in the The Council on Legal Education Opportunity, Inc. (CLEO) Jumpstart LSAT program at Fordham
- Attend diversity related programming and special events put on by Fordham Law School
- Travel to Albany, N.Y. to meet with legislators, legislative staff, administrative agency staff, and judges (costs covered by the program)
- Students are enrolled into an LSAT preparation course
- (OPTIONAL) Students may be placed in selected legal internships upon completion of the LSAT boot camp. Internship placements include:
- Public interest organizations
- District attorney’s offices
- Judges chambers
- New York City law firms
- Students will participate in professional development workshops featuring speakers from the legal community and Fordham Law School network.
- Attend information session hosted by Fordham Law School Admissions Staff
- Meet with Fordham Law alumni and student mentors and cultivate relationships
- Travel to Washington, D.C., to visit U .S. Supreme Court (costs covered by the program)
- Students will be placed in selected legal internships that reflect their interest and will work alongside mentoring attorneys in a practical setting. Internship placements include:
- Public interest organizations
- District attorney’s offices
- Judges chambers
- New York City law firms
- Students will again participate in professional development workshops featuring speakers from the legal community and Fordham Law School network
- IDEAL Students will receive monetary stipends ($1,475) for each year of participation. The program itself is FREE for all participants.
As a first-generation college student from a financially disadvantaged background, I am grateful for the IDEAL program because it has provided me with a sense of security in moving forward with a legal career. The program has afforded me the opportunity to participate in enlightening legal preparatory courses and attain judicial internship opportunities. Finally, this program has allowed me to pursue my passion for immigration law with a degree of legal awareness that many of my peers might lack.
Daniella Lopez
Fordham University, Class of 2023
I am so grateful for the IDEAL program and all they taught me. The program provided me with unique exposure to the field of law that has been beneficial.
Jordan Joachim-James
IDEAL program alumna, Fordham University at Rose Hill, Class of 2021; Fordham Law School, Class of 2024
Apply to the Program
IDEAL application is now closed. Additional applications will be accepted by invitation only.
| December 5, 2022 | Application Opens |
| February 13, 2023 | Priority Deadline |
| March 6, 2023 | Final Application Due Date |
| Starting March 31 | Selected Applicants Notified |
| July 5, 2023 | First Day of Pre Law Institute Program |
| August 7, 2023 | Last Day of Pre Law Program |
| Fall 2023 - Spring 2024 | IDEAL Programming for the Academic Year |
Eligibility:
- Undergraduate students enrolled in a full-time program at an accredited college or university within the Fordham University and CUNY network
- Students must be in their sophomore year at the time of the application (entering junior year Fall 2023)
- Demonstrates an interest in law or a strong interest in applying to law school upon graduation
For questions about the IDEAL program, please email Jennifer Haastrup, Program Manager for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the program?
Undergraduate students who are currently enrolled in a full-time program of study at an accredited college or university are eligible to apply. We welcome applications from college students from historically underrepresented backgrounds, those enrolled at institutions within the CUNY network, as well as undergraduate students already affiliated with Fordham University. In addition, you must be a college student who has completed your sophomore year prior to the commencement of the program. No particular academic major is required, however applicants must plan to attend law school upon graduation for their undergraduate program.
What is the program commitment?
The IDEAL program begins at the end of your sophomore year in college and concludes during the summer after you graduate college. This program is a 2 ½ year commitment. Students are required to recommit to the program before every summer session.
Does the IDEAL program cover the summer program transportation costs?
At this time, the summer 2023 program will be hybrid. If required, the IDEAL program will cover relevant costs associated with travel.
What are the dates of the Summer I - Prep program?
The prep program begins on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, and ends on Monday, August 7, 2023.
Where will classes take place?
The Pre-Law Institute courses will take place virtually, however students will be required to attend in-person afternoon sessions on select days. Students enrolled in Summer II will take an LSAT prep course in-person.
Does the program cover housing and meal expenses?
The IDEAL program does not cover housing or meal expenses.
Are IDEAL participants automatically admitted into Fordham Law School?
Participation in the IDEAL program does not guarantee admission to Fordham Law School.
IDEAL Program
Fordham University School of Law150 West 62nd Street
New York, NY 10023
Email: [email protected]