New Enrollment Record Set with Largest Joint First-Year Class in School History
Rutgers Law School welcomed another historic incoming class this fall, marking a new enrollment milestone and the strongest academic credentials in the school's history. Five-hundred first-year students, including full-time, part-time, and Foreign-Trained Lawyer program participants, have officially begun their legal education journeys in Newark and Camden.
Selected from a highly competitive pool of more than 5,100 applicants, this incoming class reflects Rutgers Law's commitment to access, opportunity, and academic excellence. The entering class boasts a median LSAT score of 160 and a median GPA of 3.67, making it the most academically accomplished class in Rutgers Law history.
The new class also reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences that continue to enrich the Rutgers Law community:
· 42% identify as students of color
· 19% identify as LGBTQIA+
· 88% are first-generation law students
· 19% are first-generation college graduates
· Students represent 24 countries
· Ages range from 20 to 54
“This year’s entering class demonstrates that academic excellence and access go hand in hand,” said Rutgers Law Dean Johanna Bond. “Not only have these students achieved the strongest academic credentials in our school's history, but they also bring diverse perspectives, life experiences, and a deep commitment to making a difference through the law. We are excited to be part of their journey.”
Dean Bond welcomed the new students at Orientation opening sessions in Newark on August 17 then in Camden on August 18. Events included campus tours, receptions, introductory legal classes and workshops, and a student organization and vendor fair to help first-year students acclimate to law school. Some of the Camden 1L students ended Orientation Week by giving back to the community.
On August 21, 27 first-year law students volunteered at 121 Market Community Garden, Cathedral Kitchen and L.U.C.Y. (Lifting Up Camden Youth) - making sandwiches, landscaping and assisting with other community needs. They toured the sites and participated in service projects before returning to the law school for a reflection session. Dozens of incoming students got an early introduction to Rutgers Law this summer with MSP Orientation programs and Summer Jump Start in both locations this year.
MSP Newark scholar Amol Goyal of Jersey City, New Jersey, said, “Having the chance to speak with professors about the American legal system and the life of a case, I am tremendously excited to begin this 1L semester and to really put my best foot forward because this school has taken so many steps to make me feel that I’m as prepared as I can be.”
Patrick Fannon of Marlton, New Jersey, took part in Summer Jump Start in Camden. He said, “I met a great group of friends, learned a great deal about how to succeed as a law student, gained a tremendous amount of confidence, and diminished most of the trepidation about law school. I'm thrilled and eager to start the fall semester.” This semester, Rutgers Law also welcomes Interim MSP Assistant Dean Dr. Leland McGee; Assistant Professor of Law Shomari Ward, who teaches Legal Analysis, Writing and Research Skills (LAWRS) and Civil Procedure, and Visiting Assistant Professor Ebony Ray, who is also teaching LAWRS.
