Welcome to Vermont Law School's orientation pages! Orientation is designed to acquaint students with the institution, the community, law school culture, and legal education. A significant emphasis is on academic preparation. The fundamental goal is to empower students to learn, so that they may begin their studies as informed and confident students from the first day of class.
The week long schedule includes:
- Skills sessions and presentations led by law school faculty and staff, practicing attorneys, legislative counsels, and two Vermont Supreme Court justices.
- Academic classes such as a court system overview.
- Practical workshops on financial aid, insurance, and a hands-on introduction to VLS information technology systems.
- Presentations on professionalism, ethics, and careers.
- Campus tours with student ambassadors.
- Small group lunches with faculty advisors.
- A special session at the Vermont State House in the chambers of the House of Representatives, with presentations by the House Speaker, legislators, legislative counsel, and Vermont Bar Association leadership.
- Social events and recreation.
Transfer, exchange and visiting students are welcome to participate in all activities and are encouraged to be on campus to register for classes, get parking permits, campus ID, etc. prior to the first day of classes. There will be an opportunity scheduled for upper division entering students to get together and meet each other. Student partners are invited—and encouraged—to attend all social events.
Past Orientations have garnered kudos from entering students:
“Overall, I feel well-equipped to begin class. I know my way around, have met many students and faculty, and understand expectations. An inspiring, informative, and enjoyable week getting acclimated!”
“It would be difficult to put together a better orientation program. I should also add that the social events—and the food and drink offered at them—were first rate. Bravo!”
“Thank you for all the work and effort put into organizing and coordinating orientation. The role of the Ambassadors was excellent and very helpful in getting to see familiar and friendly faces.”
“Overall, I really had the impression that a lot of hard work was put into Orientation. It made me feel very welcome. Keep up the good work!”