To qualify for the Pathways to P.A.D. Program, applicants must:

• Be a current undergraduate or pre-law student;
• Be a member of Phi Alpha Delta in good standing;
• Commit to attending all 6 program sessions;
• Demonstrate a genuine interest in pursuing law school;
• Complete all assigned reflections and activities;
• Have access to Zoom and a reliable internet connection.

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Pathways to P.A.D. follows a powerful developmental arc designed to build confidence and momentum:

1. Identity Who am I becoming?
2. Clarity Which law schools align with my purpose and goals?
3. Strategy How do I prepare for the LSAT with structure and confidence?
4. Narrative How do I tell my story with authenticity and power?
5. Resilience How do I stay grounded and overcome barriers?

Students emerge with a personalized roadmap, polished application components, and a clear sense of leadership and purpose.

Pathways to P.A.D. is grounded in three interconnected frameworks that guide how we support students and elevate them throughout their pre-law journey. Each framework helps us create a human-centered experience that builds clarity, confidence, and connection for pre-law students.

Identity Development Theory
We help students get clear on who they are becoming. Through reflection and “Why Law?” conversations, students explore their values, purpose, and leadership identity, because your legal journey starts with understanding you.

Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT)
Confidence matters. Support matters. Belief in yourself matters. SCCT strengthens our commitment to mentorship, community, and giving students the tools, encouragement, and guidance they need to feel capable and prepared for what's ahead.

Narrative Theory
Every student has a story, Pathways to P.A.D. helps them tell it with power and purpose. Narratives Theory helps students learn how to turn their lived experiences into strong personal statements, interview responses, and leadership narratives that reflect who they are and where they’re going.

Session 1—Who Am I Becoming & Why Law?

• Explore identity, values, and purpose
• Understand motivations for pursuing law
• Build early leadership identity and confidence

Session 2—Selecting a Law School: Choosing a Path That Fits You

• Match goals and values with school culture and mission
• Use Reach/Target/Safety frameworks
• Explore affordability and decision-making tools like XploreJD

Session3—LSAT Strategies: Confidence, Structure, and Skill-Building

• Learn LSAT structure and logic
• Build study strategies based on learning style
• Develop confidence and reduce test anxiety

Session 4—Personal Statement & Storytelling Workshop

• Transform lived experiences into compelling narratives
• Structure a strong personal statement
• Align identity and purpose with professional branding

Session 5—Mindset, Resilience, and Navigating Barriers

• Overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome
• Navigate systemic and structural challenges
• Build emotional resilience and self-advocacy skills

Students complete meaningful homework each week to build tangible outcomes.

Homework Highlights:

• Purpose Statement: A clear articulation of "Why Law?"
• Preliminary Law School List: Reach/Target/Safety school aligned with goals
• LSAT Study Plan: A structured weekly roadmap
• Personal Statement Outline: Foundations for a strong admissions essay
• Professional Introduction Video: Confidence in presenting your story
• Resilience Toolkit: Strategies for navigating barriers and staying grounded

By the end of the program, students walk away with clarity, confidence, and a personalized plan for the next phase of their legal journey.

Pathways to P.A.D. is not just an informational program, it’s a transformational one. Students appreciate that it is:

• Culturally aware and affirming
• Designed for first-generation and underrepresented students
• Action-oriented with eal deliverables

Students leave Pathways to P.A.D. feeling seen, supported, and prepared to step into their future with purpose.