Chicago-Kent welcomes 21 students to the 2017 Pre-Law Undergraduate Scholars Program

A diverse group of 21 undergraduate students from across the country is participating this June in Chicago-Kent's 16th annual Pre-Law Undergraduate Scholars (PLUS) Program, designed to introduce undergraduates who are interested in legal careers to the rigors of law school and to successful legal professionals. The PLUS program is aimed at promoting diversity in the legal profession. Students began their first week of classes June 5 at the law school.

"The students participating in this year's PLUS program are high achievers who have demonstrated that they have both a passion for the legal profession and the skills and experience necessary to excel in law school and thrive in the legal profession," said Marsha Ross-Jackson, assistant dean for student professional development, who serves as PLUS program director.

The 2017 PLUS scholars are currently enrolled in 17 colleges: Agnes Scott College, Appalachian State University, Bakersfield College, Claremont McKenna College, Eugenio María de Hostos Community College, Florida State University, Hampton University, Harold Washington College, Illinois State University, Knox College, North Carolina A&T State University, Saint Xavier University, Spelman College, Texas State University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Ventura County Community College.

PLUS scholars will take courses adapted from the law school's curriculum and taught by law school faculty. They will visit state and federal courts, participate in a mock trial competition, learn about the law school admissions process, discuss career options, and meet leaders in the legal profession.

"I want to make students aware of the multiple career opportunities that exist for those with law degrees, either in traditional legal roles or non-traditional roles in business and other industries," said Dean Ross-Jackson. "I also want to encourage them to begin developing and maintaining relationships with professionals who are willing and able to help them navigate their careers."

Numerous PLUS alumni are graduates of Chicago-Kent.

Founded in 1888, Chicago-Kent College of Law is the law school of Illinois Institute of Technology, also known as Illinois Tech, a private, technology-focused, research university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering, science, architecture, business, design, human sciences, applied technology, and law.