The road to law school is one traveled with much thought, and it often is riddled with numerous questions. Charlotte D. Taylor, assistant dean for multicultural affairs at the DePaul University College of Law addresses frequently asked questions about pursuing a legal education from those who are considering law school and from those who have decided to attend but still have concerns about what to expect.

Taylor is co-author of the soon-to-be-published book, "Bridging the Gap Between College and Law School: Strategies for Success."

She offers the following answers and tips:

WHAT ARE THE ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR LAW SCHOOL?

Like the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT) for college, all law school applicants must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), which is administered by the Law School Admissions Council. There are courses and books available to help you prepare for the LSAT, however know that numbers are not everything. Don't fret if your LSAT score or grade point average is not as high as you would like. Look at the data provided in the application to determine such things as the mean and median LSAT and GPAs of the school to which you have applied and see how you measure up based on those criteria. Also, consult with an admissions counselor at that school. Know that LSAT and GPA scores are not the only things that admission committees consider. Work experience, recommendations and personal statements, among other factors, are used to evaluate candidates.

IF I'M STILL IN COLLEGE, HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR LAW SCHOOL AND THE LSAT?

There is no one major that will best prepare you for the rigors of law school. Do the best you can in your chosen major--whether it be math or mythology-- and if you have some electives, take rhetoric, logic and writing courses. The more you can hone your writing skills the better off you will be once you enter law school. Lawyers spend the bulk of their time researching, reading and writing in order to solve problems for their clients.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN A LAW SCHOOL?

There are three key things to think about when choosing a law school. First, determine a location to help narrow your choices dramatically. If you know you want to live and work in a big city or in a particular area of the country, then you should seriously consider schools in those areas. Second, consider what area of law you want to practice--civil or criminal, public or private, or a specific specialty such as intellectual property or health law. If you want to practice in a certain specialty, investigate the types of classes and other opportunities offered by the schools in the areas you selected. Look for special programs, such as internships and externships, clinics, institutes, research centers, student organizations and journals. Finally, visit each school before making your final decision. Remember that a school may look great on paper, but if the faculty, staff and students are unfriendly, or if the facilities are not adequate, then it might not be the best place for you to learn.

WHAT SHOULD I DO TO BECOME A MORE MARKETABLE CANDIDATE FOR LAW SCHOOL?

Although grades are important, they are not everything. Most law schools are looking for well-rounded students who will be active in the law school. Getting involved in student organizations, activities and community service that interest you is the best way to start. By exploring your interests both inside and outside of the classroom, you can have fun, learn more about yourself and, at the same time, improve your application to law school.

WHAT SHOULD I DO ONCE I START LAW SCHOOL?

You need to first do everything in your power to ensure your success. Law school is not just working hard, but working smart. Professors will teach using a different method than you might be familiar with (the Socratic method, which employs repeated questions, rather than lecture) and likely will only administer one exam per semester. You should try to find out as much about how to prepare for exams as possible. If you are assigned a second or third year mentor, ask that person for advice on particular classes and professors. If you can, get involved in some of the student groups and ask their members about how they prepared for classes and finals. Also, some professors will put copies of old exams on reserve in the library for student use. Some schools have academic support or academic assistance programs and these can be helpful in acclimating students to the law school environment. Finally, look for books on how to succeed in law school that you can find in your local bookstore to help you prepare for the study of law.

Note to Editors: Taylor can be reached at 312/362-8183.