We support the well-being of law students as defined below:

 

Emotional

Resources to help you cope effectively with life and create satisfying relationships:

Environmental

Resources that provide pleasant, stimulating environments:

  • A wide range of facilities, serene courtyards, a dining hall, and a dedicated student lounge
  • Many courses that permit students to take their exams in any location, in the YLS building or beyond, allowing you to work in the space most comfortable for you
  • A location right in the heart of the Yale campus, allowing for easy access to the libraries, courtyards, and study spaces of other Yale buildings
  • A private room for use by nursing mothers

Financial

Resources to support current and future financial situations:

    • One-on-one counseling with the Financial Aid Office to discuss both current and future financial planning
    • A series of events focusing on managing your money while in law school, and creating an effective plan for after graduation
    • One of the most generous loan repayment assistance programs in the country

    Intellectual

    Resources for recognizing creative abilities, and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills:

    • Almost 200 courses taught by more than 60 full-time faculty and dozens of visiting faculty, lecturers, and adjunct professors
    • A low student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of under 20 students
    • Daily guest lectures and events with visiting experts and leaders in a broad array of fields
    • Reference librarians available to help with legal research and using legal resources
    • The ability to take classes outside of the Law School on any number of topics

    Occupational

    Resources to boost personal satisfaction and enrichment from one's work:

    • A wide array of classes, clinics, externships, extracurriculars, and independent study programs
    • One-on-one counseling with the Career Development Office or OSA for career path guidance and academic planning. CDO offers specialists in various career areas that can help with almost any career goal.
    • Numerous YLS publications about various career options
    • An extensive alumni network, including over 17,000 alums who have offered to discuss their career paths with current students
    • A detailed survey of career satisfaction among YLS graduates so that students can assess which career choices may produce the best chances of a satisfying career
    • A variety of career-related panels held throughout the academic year

    Physical

    Resources that recognize the need for healthy food, physical activity and ample sleep:

    • Healthy options in the dining hall, including vegetarian and vegan selections
    • Free access to the Payne Whitney Gym, only a five minute walk from YLS
    • Free fitness classes at PWG such as yoga, boot camp and more
    • Intramural sports, such as softball, soccer, and Frisbee that offer students the opportunity to interact with the broader Yale student community
    • Club sports provide an additional outlet for students to interact and compete!

    Social

    Resources that foster a sense of connection and belonging:

    • A variety of social events designed to promote community among YLS students, faculty and staff, for instance:
      • Community picnics
      • Trivia nights
      • Student recitals
    • Funding for over 60 different student groups and organizations, covering a wide variety of interests and activities
    • Programs for first-term students that connect them with upper-level students, including Dean’s Advisors, Coker Fellows and Peer Advocates
    • OSA works with students on a daily basis and can help you connect with your classmates

    Spiritual

    Resources to help you understand and expand your sense of purpose and meaning:

    • Yale University Chaplain’s Office, a multi-faith organization that provides pastoral care, educates on faith-related topics, and hosts interfaith student groups and events
    • Weekly free meditation sessions with our wellness counselor and YLS professor
    • Regular yoga led by YLS students
    • A number of student groups that are centered on various religious faiths
    • A private prayer and meditation room