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Business Education Human Resources Media & Communications Military Industry

The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy Announces October Enrollment and Calls for Partnerships

The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy Announces October Enrollment and Calls for Partnerships

Fayetteville, NC – The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy, a newly approved nonprofit organization by the North Carolina Secretary of State, is proud to announce that enrollment will open in October, with classes beginning the day after Veteran’s Day. The Academy is now actively seeking partnerships with schools, churches, colleges, universities, military bases, veteran service organizations, and community leaders to help expand its mission of service, empowerment, and workforce readiness.

Founded on the values of service, integrity, education, and community, the Academy is designed to meet the needs of veterans, service members, their families, and local residents. Its goal is to create stronger pathways for education, employment, housing stability, and personal growth.

Core Values That Drive the Mission

The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy is guided by seven core values:

  • Service Before Self – Honoring military roots by serving others with compassion and commitment.
  • Integrity and Accountability – Ensuring honesty and measurable outcomes in every initiative.
  • Empowerment Through Education – Delivering workforce training, financial literacy, and personal development resources.
  • Collaboration and Community – Building strong networks with employers, educators, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations.
  • Innovation with Purpose – Using technology and forward-thinking solutions to address housing, employment, and personal growth challenges.
  • Respect and Inclusivity – Creating an environment where every voice is valued and every background is respected.
  • Resilience and Growth – Inspiring individuals to overcome adversity and achieve lifelong success.

Benefits for Partners and Communities

The Academy offers unique opportunities for organizations to expand their impact while directly supporting community members.

  • High Schools: Students gain life skills, financial literacy, and real-world readiness to transition confidently into college, the workforce, or military service. Schools enhance their reputation for preparing graduates beyond academics.
  • Colleges & Universities: Partnerships reduce dropout rates, create stronger pipelines of career-ready students, and open collaboration opportunities for workshops, internships, and community outreach.
  • Churches: Ministries can extend their reach by offering resources for employment, housing, and personal development, positioning themselves as centers for empowerment.
  • Military Bases: Service members preparing for civilian life receive structured career pathways, while families access life-skills training that strengthens resilience.
  • Veteran Services Organizations: By working with the Academy, these organizations can expand their networks, align with missions of housing and employment support, and strengthen funding proposals through demonstrated collaboration.

Shared Community Impact

The Academy emphasizes that success is collective. By uniting schools, churches, employers, and service organizations, it aims to create lasting outcomes such as:

  • Workforce development and job readiness
  • Greater visibility and recognition for partner organizations
  • Shared access to employer pipelines and training tools
  • Stronger families and healthier, more prosperous communities

A Call to Action

With enrollment opening in October and the first classes launching in November, The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy is calling on community stakeholders to become partners in this movement. The Academy is positioned to help reduce unemployment, promote financial literacy, and inspire resilience in both youth and veterans.

“This is just the beginning,” said founder ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul. “The Academy represents more than education—it’s about transformation, empowerment, and growth for individuals and the communities they belong to. Together, we can ensure no one is left behind.”

About The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy

The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy is a nonprofit organization based in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Approved by the NC Secretary of State in 2024, the Academy is committed to empowering veterans, service members, students, and community members through education, workforce readiness, and collaborative partnerships. Its mission is grounded in values of service, integrity, inclusivity, and resilience.

Website: https://the-shadonna-m-mcphaul-success-academy.ueniweb.com

Media Contact

ShaDonna M. McPhaul

Founder & Public Relations Director

The ShaDonna M. McPhaul Success Academy

Fayetteville, NC

📧 Email: shadonnamcphaul@smmsa.education 

📞 Phone: 1-877-407-8223

🌐 Website: https://the-shadonna-m-mcphaul-success-academy.ueniweb.com

Categories
Education Family & Parenting Insurance Industry Media & Communications Sports

Maya Florido Awarded Scholarship from E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc.

FAYETTEVILLE, NC – September 15, 2025The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc. Powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy and Covington Insurance, LLC proudly announced that recent high school graduate and standout softball player Maya Florido has been awarded a scholarship as she begins her college journey. The award reflects the Hall of Fame’s ongoing mission to support young student-athletes in pursuit of academic and athletic excellence.

Maya, described by her family and mentors as fun, bubbly, and hardworking, has already demonstrated a strong commitment to both education and athletics. A graduate with a passion for science, she developed a special interest in chemistry during her high school years, crediting the engaging instruction of her teacher, Linda Jarman, for sparking her enthusiasm in the subject. This academic foundation is serving as a launchpad for her future studies.

With the help of the Hall of Fame scholarship, Maya is now an incoming freshman at Fayetteville Technical Community College, where she plans to pursue a two-year degree in medical sonography. After completing the program, she intends to continue her education by majoring in business administration at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T). This dual focus reflects her long-term vision of combining health sciences with entrepreneurial ambition.

The recognition came during an interview conducted by ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul, Public Relations Director for the E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc. McPhaul highlighted not only Maya’s athletic achievements on the softball field but also her determination to balance academics, athletics, and personal goals. She underscored the role of public relations in amplifying stories like Maya’s, ensuring that young scholars receive recognition for their accomplishments and encouragement to continue striving toward success.

“Maya represents the very best of what we hope to see in our scholarship recipients,” said McPhaul. “She is committed to excellence, dedicated to her studies, and full of promise. We are excited to celebrate her as she begins this new chapter and to share her story with the community.”

Maya’s mother expressed pride in her daughter’s achievements and encouraged her to keep applying for scholarships as a way to build financial support for her education and future plans. The scholarship not only helps offset the cost of tuition but also supports Maya’s personal goals, such as saving toward her first car, which will provide her with greater independence as she balances school and extracurricular commitments.

The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc. has a long tradition of honoring and supporting student-athletes. By awarding scholarships, the organization continues to invest in the next generation of leaders who carry forward the legacy of determination, discipline, and community involvement associated with E.E. Smith High School and its alumni network.

As Maya begins her college career, she stands as an inspiration for current students and alumni alike. Her story reflects the values of perseverance, academic curiosity, and community spirit that the Hall of Fame seeks to recognize and uplift.

For more information about the E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc., its mission, and scholarship opportunities, please visit https://eesmithalumnisportshalloffame.com.

Media Contact:

ShaDonna McPhaul

Public Relations Director

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc.

https://eesmithalumnisportshalloffame.com

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Business Education Employment Social Media World

The Mo You Know Announces Strategic Partnership with NC Works to Support Youth Employment

 

 

The Mo You Know Announces Strategic Partnership with NC Works to Support Youth Employment

 

Fayetteville, NC – June 2025 – The Mo You Know Marketing and Media Consulting Services, LLC is proud to announce a strategic partnership with NC Works and the Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board to support the 2025 Summer Youth Employment Program, an initiative designed to equip local students with real-world experience and essential soft skills for the workforce.

 

This summer, The Mo You Know will welcome Ziesha Williams, a rising junior at 71st High School in Fayetteville, NC, as a youth intern. Through this opportunity, Ziesha will gain hands-on experience in media relations, event planning, and community engagement—key areas that contribute to personal growth and professional development.

 

“We’re honored to work with NC Works and help prepare the next generation of leaders,” said ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul, CEO of The Mo You Know. “Ziesha is bright, motivated, and ready to learn, and we’re excited to pour into her just as so many have poured into us.”

 

As part of the program, The Mo You Know will provide structured training in:

• Media Relations & Press Writing

• Public Speaking & Brand Messaging

• Social Media Management

• Professional Etiquette & Time Management

• Community Engagement & Networking

 

The Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Team shared their appreciation, stating:

 

“Your partnership is instrumental in building a stronger, more resilient workforce across our region. We are honored to collaborate with you on this impactful initiative.”

 

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to investing in Fayetteville’s youth and cultivating career-ready professionals who are confident, capable, and connected.

 

For media inquiries or to learn how your organization can get involved, contact:

 

 

Media Contact:

ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul

Founder & CEO – The Mo You Know

📧 mo@themoyouknow.vip

🌐 www.themoyouknow.vip

📱 910 574 3346

 

 

Categories
Business Celebrity Culture, Society & Lifestyle Education Finance

ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul Returns to Virginia State University as Guest Instructor in the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business

Virginia State University (VSU) proudly welcomed back accomplished media personality and entrepreneur, ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul, as a Guest Instructor in the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business. Hosted by Jonathan M. Young, Director of Corporate Relations, this special engagement aligns with VSU’s continued commitment to enriching student experiences with real-world knowledge and leadership rooted in ethical and professional excellence.

 

Known for her influential platform “The Mo You Know,” McPhaul has made a lasting impact across the fields of media, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment. Her return to VSU marks a special full-circle moment, where she shared career-defining insights and life lessons with students at this prestigious Historically Black College and University (HBCU).

 

During her session, McPhaul offered students a behind-the-scenes perspective on covering the HBCU Honors “Blue Carpet” event at Howard University—an exclusive feature aired on Black Entertainment Television. Drawing from this experience, she discussed the importance of brand building, media literacy, and how young professionals can position themselves in competitive global markets while remaining grounded in service and integrity.

 

“Our goal at VSU is to graduate students who are not only academically prepared but also community-minded and career-ready,” said Jonathan M. Young. “ShaDonna ‘Mo’ McPhaul exemplifies the kind of transformative leader our students can learn from, and we were honored to have her share her journey.”

 

In addition to her guest instruction, McPhaul is also spearheading efforts to support youth employment initiatives. Her work connects students to real job opportunities and workshops focused on workforce readiness—another testament to her philosophy of paying it forward.

 

Virginia State University continues to strengthen partnerships with notable alumni, thought leaders, and corporate influencers to offer dynamic programming that equips students for the challenges of the 21st century. Guest lectures and practical workshops led by professionals like McPhaul serve to bridge the gap between academic theory and industry application.

 

With this engagement, VSU invites other HBCUs and corporate partners to explore collaboration opportunities, particularly those focused on developing future-ready leaders through engaging, hands-on instruction. By integrating the voices of professionals who reflect the lived experiences and aspirations of the student body, institutions like VSU provide an unmatched educational environment.

 

For more information about programming at the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business or to inquire about future workshop partnerships, please visit www.vsu.edu/business.

 

About Virginia State University:

Virginia State University is a leading public HBCU committed to graduating lifelong learners who are globally competitive, community-focused, and ethically grounded. The Reginald F. Lewis College of Business fosters innovation and leadership through academic excellence and real-world engagement.

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Education

Universitas Pertiwi Nusantara (UPN) Offers High-Quality Education in Indonesia

Depok, Indonesia [07/02/2025] – Excellence, innovation, and industry-driven education – this is the commitment of Universitas Pertiwi Nusantara (UPN), a leading higher education institution in Indonesia. With a wide range of study programs designed to meet modern industry needs, UPN is dedicated to shaping professionals who are ready to compete in the global market.

UPN is setting new standards in higher education by offering a curriculum that aligns with industry demands, experienced faculty members, and state-of-the-art facilities. The university provides an exceptional academic experience focused on skill development and innovation, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for the workforce.

With outstanding faculties, UPN offers various study programs, including Economics and Business, Information Technology, and Communication Sciences. Whether for new students or professionals seeking to enhance their expertise, UPN provides flexible and high-quality education options.

UPN graduates have proven their success across various industries, both nationally and internationally. Many alumni have secured positions at top companies or have successfully built their own businesses, demonstrating the effectiveness of UPN’s education. By incorporating research-based learning and hands-on practice, UPN ensures that every student gains a competitive edge in their careers.

“We at UPN are committed to producing graduates who are not only academically excellent but also equipped with practical skills required by the industry,” said a UPN representative. “We continuously improve the quality of education so that our students can grow and succeed globally.”

Furthermore, UPN collaborates with educational institutions and industries locally and internationally to support research and innovation. With an extensive network and strong academic support, UPN is increasingly recognized as one of Indonesia’s top universities.

As a rapidly growing institution, UPN focuses not only on academic excellence but also on enhancing student services. With a seamless and transparent enrollment process, prospective students can easily access information on study programs, tuition fees, and available scholarships.

About Universitas Pertiwi Nusantara

Universitas Pertiwi Nusantara (UPN) is a higher education institution dedicated to shaping future leaders through innovative study programs, professional faculty, and modern facilities. Committed to providing top-quality education, UPN is the ideal choice for students looking to build a successful future.

For more information, visit https://upn.ac.id.

Media Contact

Universitas Pertiwi Nusantara

Address: Jl. Raya Bogor KM 22 No.105, Cisalak, Kec. Sukmajaya, Kota Depok, Jawa Barat 16416

Email: info@upn.ac.id

Phone: +62 811 105 777

Website: https://upn.ac.id

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Education Employment Family & Parenting Marketing & Sales Media & Communications

A&M Youth Cultivation Center Opens to Support Families with IEPs and 504 Plans in Cumberland County

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Mary Persaud

A&M Youth Cultivation Center

211 Owen Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: (910) 318-5411

Website: AMyccnc.com

A&M Youth Cultivation Center Opens to Support Families with IEPs and 504 Plans in Cumberland County

Fayetteville, NC – December 10, 2024 – Mary Persaud, an accomplished educator and advocate for special populations, proudly announces the opening of A&M Youth Cultivation Center in Fayetteville, NC. With a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science degree from Fayetteville State University, Persaud is dedicated to serving families and students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans in Cumberland County.

A&M Youth Cultivation Center provides tailored afterschool care and tutoring services specifically designed to support the unique learning needs of students requiring additional educational resources. By focusing on personalized support and creating a nurturing environment, the center aims to empower students to achieve their full potential.

“Our mission is to bridge the gap in educational support for families navigating IEPs and 504 plans,” says Mary Persaud. “At A&M Youth Cultivation Center, we strive to create a safe and enriching environment where every child can thrive academically and personally.”

The center is conveniently located at:

211 Owen Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28304

Families can learn more about A&M Youth Cultivation Center’s programs and services by visiting AMyccnc.com or calling (910) 318-5411 to schedule a consultation.

A&M Youth Cultivation Center is committed to making a difference in the lives of families and children across Cumberland County by providing the resources and support they need to succeed.

About A&M Youth Cultivation Center

A&M Youth Cultivation Center offers afterschool care and tutoring programs tailored to the special population in Cumberland County. With a focus on students with IEPs and 504 plans, the center provides individualized support, ensuring that every child has access to quality education and opportunities for growth.

For additional information, please contact Mary Persaud at (910) 318-5411 or visit AMyccnc.com.

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Education

Royal Certified Masterclass Emerges as Global Leader in Professional Education

NEW YORK, NY — Royal Certified Masterclass, ranked #1 Global Online Education Provider 2024 by EdTech Insight, announces unprecedented expansion of its internationally accredited certification programs, transforming the landscape of professional education worldwide.

 

Awarded “Most Innovative Education Company 2024” and backed by quadruple accreditation from IPHM, CMA, IAOTH, and ICAHP, Royal Certified Masterclass has established itself as the preeminent authority in professional certification, with over 25,000 successful graduates across 50+ countries and strategic partnerships with Fortune 500 companies.

 

Royal Certified Masterclass’s advisory board, featuring Harvard Business School Professor Emeritus Dr. Jonathan Reid and former McKinsey Senior Partner Sarah Chen, has developed a proprietary learning methodology that revolutionizes professional education. This groundbreaking system has earned three U.S. patents and has been featured in leading academic journals.

 

“We’re witnessing a fundamental transformation in professional education,” states Dr. Alexandra Mitchell, Chief Academic Officer and former Stanford University Dean. “Our revolutionary approach, combining advanced neurological learning patterns with practical implementation, enables professionals to transition from certification to profitable practice within 30 days.”

 

The institution’s market leadership is reflected in unprecedented statistics:

– 93% success rate among graduates

– 312% average income increase post-certification

– 97% student satisfaction rate (independently verified by Deloitte)

– Over $100 million in collective graduate earnings

– Named “Preferred Education Provider” by 12 global industry associations

 

Royal Certified Masterclass’s innovative system has garnered significant attention from industry leaders and media outlets. Featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, and The Wall Street Journal, the institution has been recognized for its transformative impact on professional education.

 

“Our commitment to excellence extends beyond certification,” explains James Harrison, Director of Student Success and former Google Learning Executive. “Through our Global Impact Initiative, we’ve provided over 1,000 scholarships to underserved communities and established partnerships with the World Economic Forum’s Education Initiative.”

 

The institution’s certification programs combine theoretical expertise with practical business implementation strategies. Each program is backed by Royal Certified Masterclass’s “Triple Crown” guarantee and supports by their proprietary AI-driven learning platform, rated “Best-in-Class” by EdTech Review 2024.

 

Looking ahead, Royal Certified Masterclass continues to shape the future of professional education. With a 200% year-over-year growth rate and upcoming launches of quantum learning technology integration, the institution remains at the forefront of educational innovation.

 

For more information about Royal Certified Masterclass’s certification programs, visit www.royalcertifiedmasterclass.com.

 

About Royal Certified Masterclass:

Royal Certified Masterclass is the world’s leading professional education institution, specializing in internationally recognized certification programs. With proprietary learning technology, prestigious accreditations, and unmatched student outcomes, the institution has established itself as the global standard in professional certification and career transformation.

 

Contact Information:

Royal Certified Masterclass

99 Wall Street #2321

New York, NY 10005

Email: support@royalcertifiedmasterclass.com

Categories
Business Culture, Society & Lifestyle Education Lifestyle News & Current Affairs

Three Reasons to Create an Online Course: Unlock Freedom, Income, and Impact

[Oklahoma City, Oklahoma] — With the rise of the digital economy, online courses have become a game-changer for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to share their expertise and create additional income streams. Amanda Dake, an experienced business consultant and online course creator, highlights three compelling reasons why now is the perfect time to create your own online course.

1. Freedom to Work on Your Terms

An online course allows you to design a business around your life—not the other way around. Whether you want to work from anywhere, spend more time with family, or focus on other ventures, an online course provides the flexibility to build a lifestyle you love.

2. Generate Income While Sharing Your Expertise

Online courses are a scalable way to monetize your knowledge. Unlike trading time for money, a course lets you create an asset that earns income over time, reaching a wider audience than one-on-one services ever could.

3. Make a Bigger Impact

If you have expertise or skills that could change lives or businesses, an online course is your chance to share your knowledge with the world. It’s an opportunity to create real impact while building a legacy you can be proud of.

To help professionals take the first step, Amanda Dake is hosting a free webinar, Your Course Profit Blueprint, on December 11, 2024. Attendees will learn how to design, sell, and structure an online course that aligns with their goals of freedom, income, and impact.

Event Details:

  • What: Your Course Profit Blueprint Webinar
  • When: December 11, 2024, at 1:00 PM CST
  • Where: Online
  • Cost: Free

For more information and to register, visit amandadake.com/register.

Take the first step toward turning your expertise into an online course that works for you—and for your life.

About Amanda Dake

Amanda Dake is a seasoned business consultant and marketing expert with over 15 years of experience helping professionals create profitable online courses and achieve business success. Her proven methods empower clients to turn their expertise into scalable income streams while making a meaningful impact.

Categories
Business Education

Royal Certified Masterclass Emerges as Global Leader in Professional Education

NEW YORK, NY — Royal Certified Masterclass, ranked #1 Global Online Education Provider 2024 by EdTech Insight, announces unprecedented expansion of its internationally accredited certification programs, transforming the landscape of professional education worldwide.

 

Awarded “Most Innovative Education Company 2024” and backed by quadruple accreditation from IPHM, CMA, IAOTH, and ICAHP, Royal Certified Masterclass has established itself as the preeminent authority in professional certification, with over 25,000 successful graduates across 50+ countries and strategic partnerships with Fortune 500 companies.

 

Royal Certified Masterclass’s advisory board, featuring Harvard Business School Professor Emeritus Dr. Jonathan Reid and former McKinsey Senior Partner Sarah Chen, has developed a proprietary learning methodology that revolutionizes professional education. This groundbreaking system has earned three U.S. patents and has been featured in leading academic journals.

 

“We’re witnessing a fundamental transformation in professional education,” states Dr. Alexandra Mitchell, Chief Academic Officer and former Stanford University Dean. “Our revolutionary approach, combining advanced neurological learning patterns with practical implementation, enables professionals to transition from certification to profitable practice within 30 days.”

 

The institution’s market leadership is reflected in unprecedented statistics:

– 93% success rate among graduates

– 312% average income increase post-certification

– 97% student satisfaction rate (independently verified by Deloitte)

– Over $100 million in collective graduate earnings

– Named “Preferred Education Provider” by 12 global industry associations

 

Royal Certified Masterclass’s innovative system has garnered significant attention from industry leaders and media outlets. Featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, and The Wall Street Journal, the institution has been recognized for its transformative impact on professional education.

 

“Our commitment to excellence extends beyond certification,” explains James Harrison, Director of Student Success and former Google Learning Executive. “Through our Global Impact Initiative, we’ve provided over 1,000 scholarships to underserved communities and established partnerships with the World Economic Forum’s Education Initiative.”

 

The institution’s certification programs combine theoretical expertise with practical business implementation strategies. Each program is backed by Royal Certified Masterclass’s “Triple Crown” guarantee and supports by their proprietary AI-driven learning platform, rated “Best-in-Class” by EdTech Review 2024.

 

Looking ahead, Royal Certified Masterclass continues to shape the future of professional education. With a 200% year-over-year growth rate and upcoming launches of quantum learning technology integration, the institution remains at the forefront of educational innovation.

 

For more information about Royal Certified Masterclass’s certification programs, visit www.royalcertifiedmasterclass.com.

 

About Royal Certified Masterclass:

Royal Certified Masterclass is the world’s leading professional education institution, specializing in internationally recognized certification programs. With proprietary learning technology, prestigious accreditations, and unmatched student outcomes, the institution has established itself as the global standard in professional certification and career transformation.

 

Contact Information:

Royal Certified Masterclass

99 Wall Street #2321

New York, NY 10005

Email: support@royalcertifiedmasterclass.com

Categories
Books & Literature Education Law & Legal Professional Services U.S

Attorney Thomas Ladegaard’s “Law School Uncensored” Reveals the Three Biggest Mistakes Applicants Make

Securing a spot in law school is a daunting challenge that leaves many applicants feeling the pressure. With only 41% of applicants gaining admission, and top schools accepting a mere 12%, the path to law school is a difficult process. For aspiring lawyers, understanding the application process could mean the difference between success and rejection.

The path to becoming an attorney is a tough, obstacle-filled journey. In his book, Law School Uncensored, Attorney Thomas Ladegaard shares practical advice to help prospective law students decide if law school is right for them and how to succeed if they choose to enroll. He shares his first-hand experience, including how he was surprised by a low LSAT score and rejected by his top-choice law school, but he didn’t let those setbacks define his future in the legal field.

Ladegaard’s book offers insights into the realities of law school, particularly for applicants who might not have ideal LSAT scores or get immediate acceptance into their dream school, like with his own story. He says, “The law school journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I wrote this book to share practical and real-world advice from someone who’s been there. You need to not only ask the right questions to determine if law school is right for you, but then understand how to succeed when you get there. I share strategies that helped me not just survive law school, but thrive.”  

By focusing on strategic planning, he shares his roadmap for success even when there are some bumps in the road and how he overcame a low LSAT score and eventually transferred to a top-tier law school graduating in the top 19% of his class. Ladegaard has personal experience on how to avoid the three biggest mistakes law school applicants make.

Mistake #1: Not Casting a Wide Enough Net. One of the most frequent mistakes prospective law students make is applying to too few schools, particularly focusing solely on one “dream” institution. This narrow approach can be a big risk. According to Ladegaard, “It’s important to apply to a range of schools to improve your chances of acceptance. Law school admissions are very competitive and having backup options ensures you don’t limit your opportunities. By casting a wider net, you can increase the likelihood of getting into law school while leaving room for future possibilities, such as transferring to a first-choice school later on like I did.”

Mistake #2: Not Understanding Admission Requirements (Especially LSATs and GPAs). Admissions decisions often come down to two major factors: LSAT scores and GPA. Failing to assess these requirements properly can be detrimental to the application. Many students apply to schools without researching the average LSAT scores and GPA ranges and tailoring applications to schools that align with their scores, setting themselves up for unnecessary expense and disappointment. Although an LSAT score doesn’t define a student’s future as a lawyer, it plays a key role in admissions. Ladegaard recommends, “You should apply to schools that are commensurate with your composite LSAT and GPA. If you perform well, you can transfer to a higher-tiered school later.”

Mistake #3: Believing Early College Years Don’t Matter. A common misconception is that only courses within a student’s undergraduate major or law-related courses matter when applying to law school. However, the student’s overall GPA, including freshman year, is critical in the admissions process. Prospective law students often overlook general education courses or early semesters, assuming they carry less weight. In reality, law schools consider their entire academic record. Maintaining a high GPA from the beginning of college demonstrates consistency, commitment, and the ability to handle rigorous coursework, and the early years affect their overall GPA. Law school admissions counsels create composite scores of their LSAT and GPA, and individual course grades carry less weight.

On Ladegaard’s first day of law school, his Civil Procedure professor shared with the class his belief that some people aren’t cut out to be lawyers, and it’s his job to “weed them out.” Ladegaard shares crucial strategies and a system that enabled him to succeed in his first year, and as an upperclassman. “You must adopt a consistent and structured study system and treat it like a nine-to-five job — even though you’ll probably work 12 hours a day between class attendance, reading, and briefing cases,” he suggests. “Finally, do not neglect your health and happiness since regular exercise, hobbies, and social connections can provide the balance you will need to succeed.” 

Attorney Thomas Ladegaard is a practicing lawyer with 21 years of experience as a business litigator in San Diego County. Ladegaard worked in firms for his first 14 years of practice, and formed his own firm in 2017. His book, Law School Uncensored, provides valuable insights for prospective law students to set themselves up for success before they even begin their legal education with practical strategies to distinguish themselves and get in front of the curve. He says, “Success in law school starts long before you step into a classroom. By applying strategically, preparing thoroughly, and maintaining balance, you can increase your chances of not only getting into law school but thriving once you’re there.”  

He serves as general counsel for various industries, leveraging his extensive litigation and transactional experience. His practice, The Law Office of Thomas E. Ladegaard, focuses on business litigation, entity formations, contract drafting, and trademark registrations, where he has become the attorney of record for over 220 trademark applications and registrations.