Thoughts on the Intensive Law and Trial program at Stanford?

I'm looking into the Intensive Law and Trial program at Stanford University as a high schooler who's really interested in law. Has anybody participated in this program before? Can you provide me with your take on the quality and usefulness of this program?

The Intensive Law and Trial program at Stanford is an excellent opportunity for high school students to get a taste of law school and the legal profession. This immersive experience offers students the chance to explore legal theory and practice, develop critical thinking skills, and gain an understanding of trial litigation.

The program's curriculum revolves around a real court case, and students get to play various roles—like being attorneys and witnesses in a mock trial—to understand different aspects of the legal process. Participants are guided and mentored by legal professionals, which adds an element of real-world insight to the theoretical learning.

That said, it's crucial to remember that participating in this program will not, in itself, enhance your college applications. Admission officers tend to hold selective, low-cost or free programs in higher regard. But, if you're genuinely interested in law, this program will undoubtedly be an enriching experience. It can provide a unique perspective into the profession, helping you confirm if it's indeed something you want to pursue in the future. For instance, you might end up enjoying the research aspect of the case studies and decide to focus more on academic law in the future. Or the mock trial could spark a deeper interest in trial advocacy for you.

Remember, the value of these programs lies significantly in the practical knowledge and insights you gain, and how you apply them to your studies and career aspirations moving forward. So, approach it from the angle of personal and intellectual growth, rather than a stepping stone to university admissions.