Ever find yourself getting used to seeing 9 year olds in Chanel sunglasses, drinking water bought at Sephora, and paying over $100 a month to join a gym? There's an overstimulation of the shallow here in LA. And after a while, you get somewhat desensitized. You don't realize that THIS JUST ISN'T NORMAL until, well, someone not from here tells you that it's not. Or when you've been out of the loop so long that you feel like you're not from around here and you get to see this world from a new perspective.
Ever since Those Days That Can't Be Named, I've been cautiously venturing out and meeting people. I have the week off work, and you know that with free time comes the spending of cash. Many of the meeting places with people are in shopping areas. Such is the nature of LA. I found myself buying a $15 deodorant and Beauty Water. I've also bought a lot of other things. And what I really want now is an Equinox gym membership. But at over $100 a month, it's a bit pricey...or is it?
I have an excellent gym in my apt complex, but it doesn't offer me classes, which I love. Do I need Mat Pilates, Yoga Glow, Boot Camp and Brand New Booty classes? And does it make sense that I'm sure to go to the gym more often if I pay so much for it? And really, considering how much people spend on cigarettes and Starbucks per month (none of which I do), isn't a mere $100 a month on my health and appearance justifiable?
Because really, after the post-bar blues, you at least want to look and feel fabulous. And in 100+ days, when results come out, you REALLY want to -- at LEAST -- look good.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Life is going on...
Well, my skin is getting better and I've had alcohol twice since the bar exam! In a lucky twist of fate, I don't have to return to work until Friday, so I've got some time to decompress and catch up on the details of my life that have been neglected for the past two months. I've packed my bar books away, unpacked everything, and have made a good start on organizing my place. Today, I'm going to do exciting things such as buy a rug, go to the grocery store, stop by the post office, return DVDs, and go to the gym!
My nesting instincts kick into full mode in these situations, when I need to have control over my life. I like to organize everything. I do believe that many eating disorders occur in situations like this, when people need to "control" something...not to fear, I will never have a problem eating!
Current Mood: Still trying to calm down, cautiously relieved, with periodic twists of anxiety.
My nesting instincts kick into full mode in these situations, when I need to have control over my life. I like to organize everything. I do believe that many eating disorders occur in situations like this, when people need to "control" something...not to fear, I will never have a problem eating!
Current Mood: Still trying to calm down, cautiously relieved, with periodic twists of anxiety.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Are we all happy yet?
I woke up this morning and did 50 PMBR questions before I realized I didn't have to anymore! Just kidding.
Just kidding!
I actually did wake up to thoughts of rule elements, and had a moment of the usual tiredness and grudging attempts to motivate myself though. And then that mood switched to jubilant gratefulness, and then back to a quiet despair. I don't do well post-bar exam, until weeks later and the memories subside. I'm not completely depressed, and VERY glad it's over, but I always feel very blah.
I didn't post yesterday because after the exam, I just wanted to get the hell out of there and I was driving back home for a couple of hours. I stopped briefly at home to upload my answers then went straight back out for a glass of wine. This glass of wine has been on my thoughts for the past 2 months. I had 2, and the bartender gave me a shot, and I was done for. It was weird being amongst people who had no idea what the bar exam was about. And again, I realized that for most of the world, this exam means NOTHING. Nice.
One particularly funny moment comes to mind when this guy asked me my name. I tried to ignore him, but he kind of grabbed my shoulders and turned me to face him. He asked again. I replied, "California is a community property state. All earnings during marriage are presumed to be..." HA! How funny is that? And I kept talking about rules! Every so often, one would spurt out, like a leak.
All right, on to Day 3 analysis. Again, I don't know. I never know. I'm never one of those people who walk out feeling good, and that's just because I really don't know! I'm sure I identified the subjects properly (yay, me) and seemed to have hit the major issues, but some rules were murky and analysis could have been shaky as well. I'm going to discuss what I wrote, and feel free discuss it. If you don't want to know, stop reading now.
Essay 4: Con Law/Crimes. I saw this one and a string of expletives almost came flying out of my mouth. Murder again. Free Speech AGAIN! WTF? WTF? WTF? It is painfully clear that these people are sick and M-E-A-N. But I forged on. I discussed murder, voluntary mansluaghter, involuntary manslaughter, and felony murder. Dismissed all of them, included felony murder because the underlying felony was a misdemeanor. Didn't discuss arson at all. I said that he didn't break the statute because of mistake. This is probably wrong, but I just remember thinking...if the law specifically prohibits only the burning of A, how can he be liable for burning B, unless the law includes intent (like knowingly)? Whatever. I thought he was funny and didn't want him to get in trouble. =) I then went into a full blown speech analysis, where I thought the meat of the points were. Content-specific, protected speech, strict scrutiny, it's illegal. It's like burning the flag. You're allowed to do it.
Essay 5: So gross. P sues S for specific performance. DISCUSS. Maybe P and S should talk it over at a day at the spa...maybe P should take S out for lunch! Have P and S discussed mediation? I mean, really! This could go everywhere! And it did. The bad thing about these problems is that it provides little guidance so you're looking everywhere, under every rock and in every crevice to spot issues. It also wreaks havoc on organization. The good thing is that everyone will be all over the place, so there's not going to be this strict standard you're held to if you fail to do what they've seen over and over again. I went into this with a element by element description of specific performance, the first of which was the validity of the contract. This was where I went into everything -- all the misrep/fraud, statute of frauds, offer/acceptance, consideration, promissory estoppel/detrimental reliance, accord and satisfaction, unclean hands, UCC, merchant (I said P was not, but am realizing it could go either way). My misrep rule was shaky. Something along the lines of, she misrepresented a material fact! And the other person relied on it! But not on purpose! I basically found there was no contract, and thus no remedy, but went on to describe what else was needed for SP if the court found there was a contract.
Essay 6: At first I smiled. And launched into my favorite little paragraph about CA is a CP state. The smile faded. It was weird. I went through it quickly. I had time to spare! I knew something was NOT right. Child support, separate debt, entitled to reimbursement. Education debt, separate, entitled to reimbursement. Law degree, community entitled to some of it applying the 10 year/other spouse gets an education too rule. I threw in a Lucas analysis of the joint checking account and quickly dismissed it doesn't apply because it's not SP funds in there. Goodwill. Always hated it and thought it was funky. I mean, it's not even a tangible thing. What the heck is it? But I put that the whole $3000 is not enforceable because W has a CP interest in it, she didn't agree to it, and the courts would look to other things when valuing it. Then I went into a Pereira/Van Camp analysis. I went with Pereira, but I should have chosen VC. But at least they're both in there. I know people disagree on this last part, but...I had time, so I put it in.
PTB: I love letters. I had nice letterhead. I even italicized the signature at the end. I'm hoping for design points. Oh, the content? I organized it by the three issues. First two were quick and based on the statutes. Last one, I organized it by statute and case precedent. I finished it on time, and was feeling really tired at the end.
And that was it. Note that I didn't discuss any new subjects at all, ever. I honestly didn't think of it, except in the Evidence q on Day 1, where I made the conscious decision not to include it. I udnerstand that people saw those issues yesterday, and I wish I threw them in there too. But hopefully, it was minor and maybe just "bonus" points. They called time, the room burst into applause, and I hit the road.
And by the way? NO CIV PRO. I was muttering rules on my way into the exam room and cramming that thing into my head all summer long. Can't believe it!
But it's aaaaallllll over now... I hope everyone enjoys their first day of freedom. I'm looking forward to hearing about your continued adventures as you try to re-assimilate into the normal world!
Just kidding!
I actually did wake up to thoughts of rule elements, and had a moment of the usual tiredness and grudging attempts to motivate myself though. And then that mood switched to jubilant gratefulness, and then back to a quiet despair. I don't do well post-bar exam, until weeks later and the memories subside. I'm not completely depressed, and VERY glad it's over, but I always feel very blah.
I didn't post yesterday because after the exam, I just wanted to get the hell out of there and I was driving back home for a couple of hours. I stopped briefly at home to upload my answers then went straight back out for a glass of wine. This glass of wine has been on my thoughts for the past 2 months. I had 2, and the bartender gave me a shot, and I was done for. It was weird being amongst people who had no idea what the bar exam was about. And again, I realized that for most of the world, this exam means NOTHING. Nice.
One particularly funny moment comes to mind when this guy asked me my name. I tried to ignore him, but he kind of grabbed my shoulders and turned me to face him. He asked again. I replied, "California is a community property state. All earnings during marriage are presumed to be..." HA! How funny is that? And I kept talking about rules! Every so often, one would spurt out, like a leak.
All right, on to Day 3 analysis. Again, I don't know. I never know. I'm never one of those people who walk out feeling good, and that's just because I really don't know! I'm sure I identified the subjects properly (yay, me) and seemed to have hit the major issues, but some rules were murky and analysis could have been shaky as well. I'm going to discuss what I wrote, and feel free discuss it. If you don't want to know, stop reading now.
Essay 4: Con Law/Crimes. I saw this one and a string of expletives almost came flying out of my mouth. Murder again. Free Speech AGAIN! WTF? WTF? WTF? It is painfully clear that these people are sick and M-E-A-N. But I forged on. I discussed murder, voluntary mansluaghter, involuntary manslaughter, and felony murder. Dismissed all of them, included felony murder because the underlying felony was a misdemeanor. Didn't discuss arson at all. I said that he didn't break the statute because of mistake. This is probably wrong, but I just remember thinking...if the law specifically prohibits only the burning of A, how can he be liable for burning B, unless the law includes intent (like knowingly)? Whatever. I thought he was funny and didn't want him to get in trouble. =) I then went into a full blown speech analysis, where I thought the meat of the points were. Content-specific, protected speech, strict scrutiny, it's illegal. It's like burning the flag. You're allowed to do it.
Essay 5: So gross. P sues S for specific performance. DISCUSS. Maybe P and S should talk it over at a day at the spa...maybe P should take S out for lunch! Have P and S discussed mediation? I mean, really! This could go everywhere! And it did. The bad thing about these problems is that it provides little guidance so you're looking everywhere, under every rock and in every crevice to spot issues. It also wreaks havoc on organization. The good thing is that everyone will be all over the place, so there's not going to be this strict standard you're held to if you fail to do what they've seen over and over again. I went into this with a element by element description of specific performance, the first of which was the validity of the contract. This was where I went into everything -- all the misrep/fraud, statute of frauds, offer/acceptance, consideration, promissory estoppel/detrimental reliance, accord and satisfaction, unclean hands, UCC, merchant (I said P was not, but am realizing it could go either way). My misrep rule was shaky. Something along the lines of, she misrepresented a material fact! And the other person relied on it! But not on purpose! I basically found there was no contract, and thus no remedy, but went on to describe what else was needed for SP if the court found there was a contract.
Essay 6: At first I smiled. And launched into my favorite little paragraph about CA is a CP state. The smile faded. It was weird. I went through it quickly. I had time to spare! I knew something was NOT right. Child support, separate debt, entitled to reimbursement. Education debt, separate, entitled to reimbursement. Law degree, community entitled to some of it applying the 10 year/other spouse gets an education too rule. I threw in a Lucas analysis of the joint checking account and quickly dismissed it doesn't apply because it's not SP funds in there. Goodwill. Always hated it and thought it was funky. I mean, it's not even a tangible thing. What the heck is it? But I put that the whole $3000 is not enforceable because W has a CP interest in it, she didn't agree to it, and the courts would look to other things when valuing it. Then I went into a Pereira/Van Camp analysis. I went with Pereira, but I should have chosen VC. But at least they're both in there. I know people disagree on this last part, but...I had time, so I put it in.
PTB: I love letters. I had nice letterhead. I even italicized the signature at the end. I'm hoping for design points. Oh, the content? I organized it by the three issues. First two were quick and based on the statutes. Last one, I organized it by statute and case precedent. I finished it on time, and was feeling really tired at the end.
And that was it. Note that I didn't discuss any new subjects at all, ever. I honestly didn't think of it, except in the Evidence q on Day 1, where I made the conscious decision not to include it. I udnerstand that people saw those issues yesterday, and I wish I threw them in there too. But hopefully, it was minor and maybe just "bonus" points. They called time, the room burst into applause, and I hit the road.
And by the way? NO CIV PRO. I was muttering rules on my way into the exam room and cramming that thing into my head all summer long. Can't believe it!
But it's aaaaallllll over now... I hope everyone enjoys their first day of freedom. I'm looking forward to hearing about your continued adventures as you try to re-assimilate into the normal world!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Day Two
Oh, who knows. It's so much easier to stress about Day 1 because I can nitpick, go over the notes, etc. With the MBEs, it's all a blur and much harder to remember what the heck happened. I thought PM was harder. I have no idea how people remember the MBEs in such detail and post them online. I remember last time, there were lists of like 50-75 questions, which is amazingly thorough.
I'm beat though. I have a headache and I can't stop eating! I don't eat breakfast because my stomach gets nervous in the mornings, so maybe it's okay? I don't know how to justify chicken, salad, a slurpee, Flaming Hot Cheetoes, a hot dog, and soon, a curry... I think it's the stress. I worked out yesterday because I was so freakin' sore and apparently, in my zombie like state, completely missed Blondie! She's a lovely lady with a rockin' French pedicure. =) It's good to see a friendly face around. Yesterday, I did end up going to Nordie's and it was weird being amongst the normal people. I felt like an intruder. I bought a YSL Touche Eclat lipgloss in number 11. It's a really great lipgloss -- long wearing, not sticky, simmery and that kool-aid punch look. I just needed to zone out for a bit. Then I went back and worked out, ate, and read over MBEs.
I'm going to say these are the issues to focus on for tomorrow: Civ Pro, with an emphasis on res judicata and collateral estoppel, Community Property, Remedies and Professional Responsibility. I'm also glancing through some Con Law Fed/State stuff and Agency stuff. I mean, Day 1 was all MBE subjects...we're bound to get CA tomorrow, no?
Everyone seems okay with Day 1. This probably means that the grading will be harder because people got the issues. Eh. I thought they were deceivingly straighforward until you tried to write about it, and then it got kind of funky because it was hard to organize. Also, what's interesting is that everyone I've met so far is a repeater...either I'm in the repeater section or February really sucked.
I'm seriously exhausted. I kinda took a nap after I got back because I just collapsed. I'm going to pick up my curry, read over my subjects and commit them to memory, and sleep. I may do a light workout.
One more day guys! Best of luck to everyone.
I'm beat though. I have a headache and I can't stop eating! I don't eat breakfast because my stomach gets nervous in the mornings, so maybe it's okay? I don't know how to justify chicken, salad, a slurpee, Flaming Hot Cheetoes, a hot dog, and soon, a curry... I think it's the stress. I worked out yesterday because I was so freakin' sore and apparently, in my zombie like state, completely missed Blondie! She's a lovely lady with a rockin' French pedicure. =) It's good to see a friendly face around. Yesterday, I did end up going to Nordie's and it was weird being amongst the normal people. I felt like an intruder. I bought a YSL Touche Eclat lipgloss in number 11. It's a really great lipgloss -- long wearing, not sticky, simmery and that kool-aid punch look. I just needed to zone out for a bit. Then I went back and worked out, ate, and read over MBEs.
I'm going to say these are the issues to focus on for tomorrow: Civ Pro, with an emphasis on res judicata and collateral estoppel, Community Property, Remedies and Professional Responsibility. I'm also glancing through some Con Law Fed/State stuff and Agency stuff. I mean, Day 1 was all MBE subjects...we're bound to get CA tomorrow, no?
Everyone seems okay with Day 1. This probably means that the grading will be harder because people got the issues. Eh. I thought they were deceivingly straighforward until you tried to write about it, and then it got kind of funky because it was hard to organize. Also, what's interesting is that everyone I've met so far is a repeater...either I'm in the repeater section or February really sucked.
I'm seriously exhausted. I kinda took a nap after I got back because I just collapsed. I'm going to pick up my curry, read over my subjects and commit them to memory, and sleep. I may do a light workout.
One more day guys! Best of luck to everyone.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Day One
I need a massage. During the last hour, my head starting pounding and my neck and shoulders were killing me. Short of dry-swallowing my tension headache pills, I had to soldier as I was running out of time on the PT and NEEDED TO FINISH.
Lord. So do we wanna talk about this? I'm just gonna write down what I remember for the sake of my own recollection of this wonderful day. I don't talk about it with people at the bar exam because I don't want to subject anyone to a post-mortem that they don't want to do, so if you're one of those people, don't read on!
Essay 1: Property/Contracts. I wrote about tenancy (said it was periodic), duty to pay rent, breach of contract, duty to repair, quiet enjoyment...er...don't remember...
Essay 2: Torts. Products Liability with a funky Civ Pro twist. Surely we didn't need to talk about Civ Pro except to say that the motion should be granted or denied? Or God. So yeah..design defects, contributory negligence, comparative negligence, strict products liability analysis, negligence analysis, indemnification...
Essay 3: Evidence. Seemed scarily straight forward. Droned on and on about relevance, hearsay, exceptions, said one of the statements was nonhearsay (anyone else?) and I don't know...
PT A: Memo to the judge. It looked okay reading through it, and then when I started, I thought, "This is so broad!" What are the issues? Give me some guidance! But I muddled through and finished and said that the judge should rule against the motion based on my excellent, objective legal analysis. =)
I don't know know how people remember all the details afterwards. As you can see by my ramblings above, I barely remember what happened. And I'm doing my best to forget. I'm glad Day 1 is done. I think it's the hardest day, because like Richard said, anything goes. Day 2 is 6 subjects, Day 3 is narrowed down.
How do I feel? Murky. Everything is kind of murky. I'm gonna need to kick ass the next two days. Is it okay to feel depressed? Do people feel depressed after and still pass? I know they say they do, but I don't think it's true...I think deep down,they feel okay about it. I want to know about the people who, deep down in their bones, feel depressed and they still pass! =)
I'm sitting in the hotel main lounge, with free internet access. Blondie, if you're reading this, don't pay for it in your room! You can access it free in the lobby/bar area. Am debating hitting the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale because I feel like a zombie. Or partaking in a glass of wine. I haven't had wine in so long though, I'm afraid to start because I may not stop...
I hope everyone got through okay. May you all sleep well tonight and wake up bright-eyed and busy tailed for tomorrow!
Lord. So do we wanna talk about this? I'm just gonna write down what I remember for the sake of my own recollection of this wonderful day. I don't talk about it with people at the bar exam because I don't want to subject anyone to a post-mortem that they don't want to do, so if you're one of those people, don't read on!
Essay 1: Property/Contracts. I wrote about tenancy (said it was periodic), duty to pay rent, breach of contract, duty to repair, quiet enjoyment...er...don't remember...
Essay 2: Torts. Products Liability with a funky Civ Pro twist. Surely we didn't need to talk about Civ Pro except to say that the motion should be granted or denied? Or God. So yeah..design defects, contributory negligence, comparative negligence, strict products liability analysis, negligence analysis, indemnification...
Essay 3: Evidence. Seemed scarily straight forward. Droned on and on about relevance, hearsay, exceptions, said one of the statements was nonhearsay (anyone else?) and I don't know...
PT A: Memo to the judge. It looked okay reading through it, and then when I started, I thought, "This is so broad!" What are the issues? Give me some guidance! But I muddled through and finished and said that the judge should rule against the motion based on my excellent, objective legal analysis. =)
I don't know know how people remember all the details afterwards. As you can see by my ramblings above, I barely remember what happened. And I'm doing my best to forget. I'm glad Day 1 is done. I think it's the hardest day, because like Richard said, anything goes. Day 2 is 6 subjects, Day 3 is narrowed down.
How do I feel? Murky. Everything is kind of murky. I'm gonna need to kick ass the next two days. Is it okay to feel depressed? Do people feel depressed after and still pass? I know they say they do, but I don't think it's true...I think deep down,they feel okay about it. I want to know about the people who, deep down in their bones, feel depressed and they still pass! =)
I'm sitting in the hotel main lounge, with free internet access. Blondie, if you're reading this, don't pay for it in your room! You can access it free in the lobby/bar area. Am debating hitting the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale because I feel like a zombie. Or partaking in a glass of wine. I haven't had wine in so long though, I'm afraid to start because I may not stop...
I hope everyone got through okay. May you all sleep well tonight and wake up bright-eyed and busy tailed for tomorrow!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Like trying to hold water in your cupped hands...
I'm afraid to shake my head too hard because some detail of law will fall out. I woke up today and tried to read through some MBE tips. I'm going to hit the gym downstairs while reading a "fun" book and do some light ellipticals, eat, pack, and head on over to the hotel. During the drive, I will risk an accident by going through my Hot Topics cheat sheets and attempting to hammer some details into my head.
I'll then check in, get settled, and meet up with Blondie. Followed by light review, relaxing again with "fun" book, hitting the Ambien, and in bed by 10:30.
Wouldn't it be nice if we had 2 days of testing? Then after tomorrow, we can say, "Oh, one more day!" I think it's psychological benefits would be monumental. ;) Anyway, to everyone out there who's read this blog, thanks for all your support and comments. It's been great having such acceptance and support from similarly situated people! You know as well as I do that it's difficult to find that in us law folks (i.e. law school!). This is my first and only blog, and I'm not one to share my dirty laundry, so it's been a very therapeutic experience for me. I really enjoyed following everyone else's blogs too -- I hope you'll all keep it up after the bar!
As for me, I'll try and post throughout the exam and will also continue posting afterwards. I think at this point, we can only look forward and not beat ourselves up about what we "should have" done. We have to do the best we can with what we have now. And most of all, let's keep this in perspective. We have our family, health, and our friends...passing the bar is a bonus.
That being said, let's rock this thing!
I'll then check in, get settled, and meet up with Blondie. Followed by light review, relaxing again with "fun" book, hitting the Ambien, and in bed by 10:30.
Wouldn't it be nice if we had 2 days of testing? Then after tomorrow, we can say, "Oh, one more day!" I think it's psychological benefits would be monumental. ;) Anyway, to everyone out there who's read this blog, thanks for all your support and comments. It's been great having such acceptance and support from similarly situated people! You know as well as I do that it's difficult to find that in us law folks (i.e. law school!). This is my first and only blog, and I'm not one to share my dirty laundry, so it's been a very therapeutic experience for me. I really enjoyed following everyone else's blogs too -- I hope you'll all keep it up after the bar!
As for me, I'll try and post throughout the exam and will also continue posting afterwards. I think at this point, we can only look forward and not beat ourselves up about what we "should have" done. We have to do the best we can with what we have now. And most of all, let's keep this in perspective. We have our family, health, and our friends...passing the bar is a bonus.
That being said, let's rock this thing!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Performance Tests...
Man, these suck. I plan on looking them over, but I haven't done anything substantive. After all, I've taken this exam before, I've done full-length PTs. I usually do well on one with a 75 and screw up the other...
I was wondering if anyone has the point break down from the NCBE for the February 2007 PTs and if they'd be willing to email that to me? You can contact me at the email listed on the profile. Much appreciated!!
I was wondering if anyone has the point break down from the NCBE for the February 2007 PTs and if they'd be willing to email that to me? You can contact me at the email listed on the profile. Much appreciated!!
The Last 24 Hours
Well, Sunday's pretty much it for all day studying. Monday is spent getting to the hotel, settling in, and doing some light studying and basically just trying to get a decent night's sleep. Today, I focused on some spot check review on Contracts (always afraid of it!!) and had a thorough review of Remedies.
I'm nervous.
I know the stuff in theory, but it's hard for me to memorize elements for everything. Reasonable, foreseeable, justifiable reliance, causation, intent...these words are in everything in some combination or another and it's all just kinda muddles together sometimes! Oh Lord, I pray it comes together in time!
Tomorrow, I plan on trying to complete a full on MBE from the Strategies & Tactics book. If I can't do all 200, I may settle for 100 because I'm also fine tuning and printing out my Hot Topics checklists/rules for each subject. I also have to do laundry so I can have my bar exam outfits clean and ready to pack.
Monday will be spent going over the checklists, doing a review of new CA subjects, and reading through some PTs. I'm going to listen to PMBR CDs on the 2 hour drive to San Diego. Well, this is the home stretch...good luck, everyone!
I'm nervous.
I know the stuff in theory, but it's hard for me to memorize elements for everything. Reasonable, foreseeable, justifiable reliance, causation, intent...these words are in everything in some combination or another and it's all just kinda muddles together sometimes! Oh Lord, I pray it comes together in time!
Tomorrow, I plan on trying to complete a full on MBE from the Strategies & Tactics book. If I can't do all 200, I may settle for 100 because I'm also fine tuning and printing out my Hot Topics checklists/rules for each subject. I also have to do laundry so I can have my bar exam outfits clean and ready to pack.
Monday will be spent going over the checklists, doing a review of new CA subjects, and reading through some PTs. I'm going to listen to PMBR CDs on the 2 hour drive to San Diego. Well, this is the home stretch...good luck, everyone!
Saturday, July 21, 2007
The Girl Who Passed
I'm in Harry Potter mode. Guess what, folks? I stayed up all night and read Book 7. Yup, some might call it crazy...and really, it's not that I couldn't wait a week, but it was because it was going to be everywhere and I didn't want the book ruined for me! So I thought, you know what? Screw it.
And for 7 delicious hours, I lost myself in the world of Harry Potter. And yes, I'm paying for it today. I slept a couple of hours, woke up, and have studied. I will continue to study and go to sleep at a decent hour, dead tired. And though I'm tired, I do feel like I can study. And hopefully, this will jump start my sleep schedule to something resembling normal before the exam. I'm really looking forward to going to bed and actually falling asleep instead of laying awake, tossing and turning while my brain races for hours on end.
I needed the escape. And the book? It was damn good. ;)
And for 7 delicious hours, I lost myself in the world of Harry Potter. And yes, I'm paying for it today. I slept a couple of hours, woke up, and have studied. I will continue to study and go to sleep at a decent hour, dead tired. And though I'm tired, I do feel like I can study. And hopefully, this will jump start my sleep schedule to something resembling normal before the exam. I'm really looking forward to going to bed and actually falling asleep instead of laying awake, tossing and turning while my brain races for hours on end.
I needed the escape. And the book? It was damn good. ;)
Friday, July 20, 2007
We can make this happen!
I don't think we can underestimate the law of attraction and the power of our subconscious. In my last post, the comments discuss the probability of reviewing a subject right before the exam, only to have it show up.
It's a matter of thinking smart, and thinking positive. We've all heard the predictions. We know that though the CA State Bar Examiners are a vile group, the stats are still helpful. Last time, people were predicting Evidence as a certainty. Sure enough, it was there. By honing in on a couple of subjects, especially on Wednesday night after 3 essays are out of the way, we have an excellent chance of predicting an essay and getting it right. Now, I'm no math whiz, but odds are actually in our favor that we can predict an essay and be prepared for it. Can you imagine reviewing Civ Pro like a maniac RIGHT BEFORE the exam, opening the test, and finding a Civ Pro question right there?! The sense of relief alone would do much for the psyche.
And of course, anyone's who's read The Secret or anything on the law of attraction knows that if we think it's gonna be on there, we're sending out waves that will make it be on there! And you know what? At this point, I'm all for it!
So, this is what I think is a "must" for the exam:
1. Professional Responsibility is always on there to some degree. Know it.
2. Remedies is almost always on there. Know it.
The above two are almost guaranteed, so we need to milk those points.
3. I'm thinking Civ Pro and Community Property.
Other things that I'm hearing a lot of buzz about are Corporations 10b5, Con Law defamation/invasion of privacy.
Thoughts?
It's a matter of thinking smart, and thinking positive. We've all heard the predictions. We know that though the CA State Bar Examiners are a vile group, the stats are still helpful. Last time, people were predicting Evidence as a certainty. Sure enough, it was there. By honing in on a couple of subjects, especially on Wednesday night after 3 essays are out of the way, we have an excellent chance of predicting an essay and getting it right. Now, I'm no math whiz, but odds are actually in our favor that we can predict an essay and be prepared for it. Can you imagine reviewing Civ Pro like a maniac RIGHT BEFORE the exam, opening the test, and finding a Civ Pro question right there?! The sense of relief alone would do much for the psyche.
And of course, anyone's who's read The Secret or anything on the law of attraction knows that if we think it's gonna be on there, we're sending out waves that will make it be on there! And you know what? At this point, I'm all for it!
So, this is what I think is a "must" for the exam:
1. Professional Responsibility is always on there to some degree. Know it.
2. Remedies is almost always on there. Know it.
The above two are almost guaranteed, so we need to milk those points.
3. I'm thinking Civ Pro and Community Property.
Other things that I'm hearing a lot of buzz about are Corporations 10b5, Con Law defamation/invasion of privacy.
Thoughts?
Thursday, July 19, 2007
One Subject at a Time...
Literally. One subject at a time. It's great. I know one subject, then I move on to the next subject, and then I know that subject...unfortunately, I've just forgotten the last subject!
So, if they test on only one subject, the one I happen to know at the time, I should be just fine.
So, if they test on only one subject, the one I happen to know at the time, I should be just fine.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Tylenol Simply Sleep
Well, this stuff sure works. I thought I'd try Tylenol's new sleep aid because my sleep schedule is out of whack these days. Many of us are sleeping late, waking up late, or unable to sleep at all! I'm concerned that due to this crazy schedule, it would be difficult to try and sleep at around 10:00 before the bar exam and ensure a good night's sleep.
So I thought I'd give Tylenol Simply Sleep a try. I took it around 12:30, and fell asleep at 1:00. It was pretty easy to fall asleep. I woke up in a groggy haze twice, and one time I had to use the bathroom. That's pretty typical, though I usually have to go to the bathroom around dawn, not when it's still dark outside. I was like a zombie. And then I proceeded to sleep until 12:00. That's right. 11 hours of sleep and I was still groggy when I woke up!
Luckily, the grogginess subsided and I wasn't sleepy during the day, but STILL. Two innocuous little blue pills (I guess they say the same thing about Viagra!) packed a lot of punch. I'm thinking maybe 1 would work best. Just to take the edge off nerves and help me fall asleep...
So there you go. My experience with Tylenol Simply Sleep. Do I recommend it? Yes, I think it works. I don't know if there's anything out there that doesn't give you that weird groggy feeling upon waking though, unless you take lower dosages. So I would recommend a lower dosage of this stuff if you're sensitive to medications, as I tend to be.
So I thought I'd give Tylenol Simply Sleep a try. I took it around 12:30, and fell asleep at 1:00. It was pretty easy to fall asleep. I woke up in a groggy haze twice, and one time I had to use the bathroom. That's pretty typical, though I usually have to go to the bathroom around dawn, not when it's still dark outside. I was like a zombie. And then I proceeded to sleep until 12:00. That's right. 11 hours of sleep and I was still groggy when I woke up!
Luckily, the grogginess subsided and I wasn't sleepy during the day, but STILL. Two innocuous little blue pills (I guess they say the same thing about Viagra!) packed a lot of punch. I'm thinking maybe 1 would work best. Just to take the edge off nerves and help me fall asleep...
So there you go. My experience with Tylenol Simply Sleep. Do I recommend it? Yes, I think it works. I don't know if there's anything out there that doesn't give you that weird groggy feeling upon waking though, unless you take lower dosages. So I would recommend a lower dosage of this stuff if you're sensitive to medications, as I tend to be.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Civ Pro = Insanity
The more I read, the more panicked I get, because the more I realize how much I DON'T KNOW! Today's topic was Civ Pro. Important, because it's one of those hot topics to be tested this time around. I thought I knew it. But I thought wrong. Now tell me, is this correct?
A plaintiff sues defendant for personal injuries stemming from negligence. He can’t later sue for property damage arising from the same negligent act as the previous suit because of res judicata? Because res judicata bars an action arising out of the same transaction?
I'm losing my mind. Every essay I go through in civ pro, there are parts that I'm truly baffled by. This is not good.
A plaintiff sues defendant for personal injuries stemming from negligence. He can’t later sue for property damage arising from the same negligent act as the previous suit because of res judicata? Because res judicata bars an action arising out of the same transaction?
I'm losing my mind. Every essay I go through in civ pro, there are parts that I'm truly baffled by. This is not good.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Bling H2O!
How freakin' insane is this? It's $35 a bottle and all the crazies are flocking to upscale bars and stores in LA and NYC to buy it. You can, of course, purchase it online at www.blingh2o.com. I'm all for high quality water and pretty packaging (I'm partial to Voss myself), but this is kinda the ghetto fab of all water. It's decked out in Swarovski crystals, which I suppose is to meant to justify the ridiculous price. And honestly? It doesn't even look that good.
Which is not to say that I wouldn't take it if someone offered it to me. And yes, I'm a tad curious about how $35 bottles of water would taste. But I have not reached such levels of high maintenance that I think this is reasonable (by an objective standard...haha...law...). What's next? Charging for air? Oh yeah, we already do that...flavored O2 (aka AIR!) at oxygen bars.
I showed this picture to hubby, opened my mouth to make some scathing remark on the utter craziness of it, and was immediately cut off with, "Are you serious? You want to buy a $35 BOTTLE OF WATER?!"
Um, no.
I merely wanted to point out that it was funny, that it was another example of our indulgent and decadent society, and have a giggle about it. Geez. When I get offended and loftily remind him that no, I was just sharing a bit of news with him and EXCUSE ME FOR BREATHING, he snorts and reminds me that I like Voss and Fiji for their packaging.
I do not.
It actually tastes better than other water! And even so, I don't buy it often, because I have priorities and water, as long as it's clean, is water. My money is better spent on shoes.
But hey, this Bling H2o? Pretty funny. It's good to know that as we slowly lose our minds over this exam, we're not missing out on anything important.
Bring it on, baby.
I came across something today and it makes a lot of sense.
This bar exam?
I'm not going to pass it because people say that I can.
I'm going to pass it because of people who think that I can't.
Yeah. Nothing like a little disparaging underestimation to get the juices flowing. So think about the people who silently take glee (evil bitches!) in your failure, the people who have expressed doubt in your ability to be a lawyer, hell, the people who looked at you funny in the library...
And prove them wrong.
This bar exam?
I'm not going to pass it because people say that I can.
I'm going to pass it because of people who think that I can't.
Yeah. Nothing like a little disparaging underestimation to get the juices flowing. So think about the people who silently take glee (evil bitches!) in your failure, the people who have expressed doubt in your ability to be a lawyer, hell, the people who looked at you funny in the library...
And prove them wrong.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Lions and Tigers and Bears!
I was reading Frustrated Bar Examinee's latest post on the summary of the bar exam experience and it had me laughing out loud. But then it mentioned something about wild animals and that sent me into one of my lightning-fast mood changes, and I thought, "Oh my God. Wild Animals. WHAT IF IT'S ON THE ESSAY?" So I had to look it up. And for the convenience of those of you who may have panicked in this very same way, here it is:
Strict Liability for Wild Animals
An owner is strictly liable to licensees and invitees for injuries caused by wild animals as long as that person didn't do anything to bring about the injuries.
No Strict Liability for Domestic Animals
Unless he has knowledge of that particular animal's dangerous propensities that are not common to the species.
Strict Liability Not Available to Trespassers
Strict liability will generally not be imposed imposed in favor trespassers in the absence of the owner's negligence. However, a landowner may be liable on intentional tort grounds fo rinjuries inflicted by vicious watchdogs.
Now, we can all just calm down.
Strict Liability for Wild Animals
An owner is strictly liable to licensees and invitees for injuries caused by wild animals as long as that person didn't do anything to bring about the injuries.
No Strict Liability for Domestic Animals
Unless he has knowledge of that particular animal's dangerous propensities that are not common to the species.
Strict Liability Not Available to Trespassers
Strict liability will generally not be imposed imposed in favor trespassers in the absence of the owner's negligence. However, a landowner may be liable on intentional tort grounds fo rinjuries inflicted by vicious watchdogs.
Now, we can all just calm down.
Friday, July 13, 2007
A Conversation that went Everywhere
Scene: Borders.
(Cell phone vibrates. It's husband.)
Me: (Quietly) Hi.
Husband: What are you doing?
M: What do you think I'm doing? I'm at Borders.
H: Oh. I'm home from work.
M: Ok.
H: I'm gonna go to the gym. Do you have to study tonight?
M: Yes.
H: What do you want to eat for dinner?
M: I don't know. There's stuff in the fridge.
H: Hey, did you pay my parking this month? I can't get out of the garage.
M: Um...I don't know. I don't think so.
H: Well, I can't get out of the garage!
M: Then go pay it!
H: Where -
M: It's the entrance on Randall St.!
H: Where's Randall?
M: The street directly behind us!! The entrance! It's the only one!
H: Oh. How -
M: Take the checkbook. It's on the desk, labeled, "Checkbook."
H: Oh, ok. (Sounds a bit defeated)
M: (Agitated) What's wrong?! Are you mad?
H: (Confused) No...
M: Because if something's wrong, just tell me! Are you not telling me because I'm studying and you're waiting to tell me after the bar so I'm not distracted? Because it makes me even more stressed out!
H: Nothing's wrong.
M: Just tell me now!
H: No, nothing's wrong!
M: (Somewhat calmer) Okaaaaay..... I guess I'll see you at home in about an hour and a half.
(Cell phone vibrates. It's husband.)
Me: (Quietly) Hi.
Husband: What are you doing?
M: What do you think I'm doing? I'm at Borders.
H: Oh. I'm home from work.
M: Ok.
H: I'm gonna go to the gym. Do you have to study tonight?
M: Yes.
H: What do you want to eat for dinner?
M: I don't know. There's stuff in the fridge.
H: Hey, did you pay my parking this month? I can't get out of the garage.
M: Um...I don't know. I don't think so.
H: Well, I can't get out of the garage!
M: Then go pay it!
H: Where -
M: It's the entrance on Randall St.!
H: Where's Randall?
M: The street directly behind us!! The entrance! It's the only one!
H: Oh. How -
M: Take the checkbook. It's on the desk, labeled, "Checkbook."
H: Oh, ok. (Sounds a bit defeated)
M: (Agitated) What's wrong?! Are you mad?
H: (Confused) No...
M: Because if something's wrong, just tell me! Are you not telling me because I'm studying and you're waiting to tell me after the bar so I'm not distracted? Because it makes me even more stressed out!
H: Nothing's wrong.
M: Just tell me now!
H: No, nothing's wrong!
M: (Somewhat calmer) Okaaaaay..... I guess I'll see you at home in about an hour and a half.
The tears cometh
Ah, yes. Right about now, everyone starts to cry. Usually for no apparent reason (well, aside from the obvious fact that we're taking a 3-day bitch of an exam upon which our entire careers hinge). Up until now, I hadn't cried, which is not to say I didn't want to, but just that it was always GO GO GO and I just sort of shoved it aside.
This morning, I woke up, and in my sleep induced fuzzy stage, recalled all kinds of OTHER things, things unrelated to the bar, things I've ALREADY DEALT WITH, and the tears began to roll. Had myself a quick pity session which inevitably included the bar. I picked up my Barbri essay book (located conveniently next to my bed) and read through a Contracts essay through my tears.
What a way to start the day off right.
This morning, I woke up, and in my sleep induced fuzzy stage, recalled all kinds of OTHER things, things unrelated to the bar, things I've ALREADY DEALT WITH, and the tears began to roll. Had myself a quick pity session which inevitably included the bar. I picked up my Barbri essay book (located conveniently next to my bed) and read through a Contracts essay through my tears.
What a way to start the day off right.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
I can't even think.
Today I ordered an Iced Soy Vanilla Latte at Borders and got a Hazelnut Latte. At least I think it was Hazelnut. I don't like Hazelnut, so I've rarely tasted it. I didn't return it. I just kinda tried to drink it. Why? Because I always feel bad returning food, because the people behind the counter seemed unfriendly, because I couldn't muster up the energy, and because I wasn't even sure what the thing tasted like. I figured it had caffeine and that should do the trick.
I find myself wanting to sleep 9-10 hours a day. Anyone else sleeping way too much? I do drag myself out of bed and feel okay an hour later, but this is odd. While I was working, I slept less than 8 hours and woke up super early. Of course, I hated it, but I did it and was reasonably ok. And this was only 1 short week ago.
In other news, the itching has stopped. I think all my products/washing have been working! But the dull, throbbing headache persists. Today is Contracts day, maybe that's it. You know, it all seems reasonably straighforward until you try to apply it to an essay. And then it all goes to hell. Do you ever just look at a Contracts essay and all these things run through your mind (like ooh, Anticipatory Repudiation, time is of the essence, impossibility, material breach!) but you have NO IDEA how to format it???
SIGH. Must continue on. Oh, for those who are interested, Sophia Kinsella is out with a new book under a new name -- Madeleine Wickham, I think? I don't really get it. I forget the title, but it's about a gold-digging but loveable gorgeous girl who meets rich men at funerals and develops morals along the way (and of course, finds love). Good for a casual study break!
I find myself wanting to sleep 9-10 hours a day. Anyone else sleeping way too much? I do drag myself out of bed and feel okay an hour later, but this is odd. While I was working, I slept less than 8 hours and woke up super early. Of course, I hated it, but I did it and was reasonably ok. And this was only 1 short week ago.
In other news, the itching has stopped. I think all my products/washing have been working! But the dull, throbbing headache persists. Today is Contracts day, maybe that's it. You know, it all seems reasonably straighforward until you try to apply it to an essay. And then it all goes to hell. Do you ever just look at a Contracts essay and all these things run through your mind (like ooh, Anticipatory Repudiation, time is of the essence, impossibility, material breach!) but you have NO IDEA how to format it???
SIGH. Must continue on. Oh, for those who are interested, Sophia Kinsella is out with a new book under a new name -- Madeleine Wickham, I think? I don't really get it. I forget the title, but it's about a gold-digging but loveable gorgeous girl who meets rich men at funerals and develops morals along the way (and of course, finds love). Good for a casual study break!
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Yes, I'm studying for the bar!
You know...I'm probably being hyper-sensitive, but I find it supremely annoying when people interrupt my studying to ask me, "Are you studying for the bar?" And it's always people who have already taken, and passed, the exam. I'm tempted to reply, "No, I'm just doing this for FUN." The ones who are currently studying for it know better than to interrupt a person who's strung out on nerves and caffeine. They know because they're going through it themselves. And if they do speak, it's usually just a weary acknowledgment that we're all in hell together.
What possesses the people who have already passed to want to bother the less fortunate?
1. Smug superiority. Let's face it, people can be assholes. And as lawyers, this character trait is bred and encouraged along with competitiveness. As alarming and saddening as it may be, the sight of us toiling away makes them feel better about themselves.
2. Complete ignorance and a desire to talk. They've miraculously forgotten the horror of bar exam studying and, fueled by yet another undesirable attorney trait of wanting to impart knowledge to the masses, want to share their "tips" with you. This reason is marginally better than the above, but still reeks of sanctimonious bullsh*t.
3. Maybe they're hitting on me. This displays an utter lack of game. Look at me. I'm studying. It sucks. You know it sucks. Unless you're going for the whole, "vulnerable-prey-let's-move-in-for-the-kill-while-it's-weak" approach, isn't it completely obvious that I'm not really looking for love right now???
You know, and I know, that when people are studying for the bar, the default approach is to let them have their peace. As with a wild animal, you may cautiously approach, but you let us sniff you out and IF, and only if, we display some sign of welcome, do you initiate anything. Because we're not stable right now. We've more than likely put aside our social grace. And our world consists of 14 subjects, none which involve your hilarious adventure trying to get your fans fixed at Sears.
What possesses the people who have already passed to want to bother the less fortunate?
1. Smug superiority. Let's face it, people can be assholes. And as lawyers, this character trait is bred and encouraged along with competitiveness. As alarming and saddening as it may be, the sight of us toiling away makes them feel better about themselves.
2. Complete ignorance and a desire to talk. They've miraculously forgotten the horror of bar exam studying and, fueled by yet another undesirable attorney trait of wanting to impart knowledge to the masses, want to share their "tips" with you. This reason is marginally better than the above, but still reeks of sanctimonious bullsh*t.
3. Maybe they're hitting on me. This displays an utter lack of game. Look at me. I'm studying. It sucks. You know it sucks. Unless you're going for the whole, "vulnerable-prey-let's-move-in-for-the-kill-while-it's-weak" approach, isn't it completely obvious that I'm not really looking for love right now???
You know, and I know, that when people are studying for the bar, the default approach is to let them have their peace. As with a wild animal, you may cautiously approach, but you let us sniff you out and IF, and only if, we display some sign of welcome, do you initiate anything. Because we're not stable right now. We've more than likely put aside our social grace. And our world consists of 14 subjects, none which involve your hilarious adventure trying to get your fans fixed at Sears.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Scalps & Starbucks
You know it's bad when you down 2 DayQuils, 2 Advils, and a multi vitamin but still can't shake the headache. You know the one. The one that comes at you with a dull throbbing induced by hours of staring at your computer screen.
Add to that and itchy scalp. I've mentioned the stress-induced itching before, right? It makes me shower very frequently, because I never feel "clean." I'm sure there are some psychological issues in there, but suffice it to say that the bar exam process makes me feel dirty. All that washing of my hair makes my scalp dry, but I can't stand not washing my hair every day! So I went to Sephora and spent $67 on a Rene Furterer intense scalp oil treatment AND a dry shampoo that's supposed to get me through the every-other-day-shampooing. The theory is that this combination will relieve my scalp and my obsession for clean hair.
And just yesterday? I was sitting in Starbucks, itching away, when I kept noticing all the pretty girls in their cute clothes and impeccable makeup breezing in to order their venti non-fat, skinny iced vanilla lattes. They were carefree, chatting on their cell phones, rummaging through their Louis Vuittons, and breezing back out the door, off somewhere fabulous. And I just sat there in my corner, makeup-free, in sweats, bleary eyed and itchy. I swear, they glanced over at me and shuddered before quickly looking away. You know how sometimes you see people and you're kinda embarrassed for them and can't really look at them?
Yep, that person is me.
I need to go to a less fashionable Starbucks. Back to Border's for me.
Add to that and itchy scalp. I've mentioned the stress-induced itching before, right? It makes me shower very frequently, because I never feel "clean." I'm sure there are some psychological issues in there, but suffice it to say that the bar exam process makes me feel dirty. All that washing of my hair makes my scalp dry, but I can't stand not washing my hair every day! So I went to Sephora and spent $67 on a Rene Furterer intense scalp oil treatment AND a dry shampoo that's supposed to get me through the every-other-day-shampooing. The theory is that this combination will relieve my scalp and my obsession for clean hair.
And just yesterday? I was sitting in Starbucks, itching away, when I kept noticing all the pretty girls in their cute clothes and impeccable makeup breezing in to order their venti non-fat, skinny iced vanilla lattes. They were carefree, chatting on their cell phones, rummaging through their Louis Vuittons, and breezing back out the door, off somewhere fabulous. And I just sat there in my corner, makeup-free, in sweats, bleary eyed and itchy. I swear, they glanced over at me and shuddered before quickly looking away. You know how sometimes you see people and you're kinda embarrassed for them and can't really look at them?
Yep, that person is me.
I need to go to a less fashionable Starbucks. Back to Border's for me.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Not Too Shabby
Managed to do two 3 hour sets of work at the library and at Borders, followed by a couple hours at home. I have to break it up into pieces like that, or I start to itch (literally). I got through every single essay posted on the Cal Bar website (since like 2001 or something?) and listed all the essays. I'm typing up a list of the issues and the number of times they come up on the bar. Tomorrow, I'm going to write out the rule statements for each issue, by subject, and use that as my "Hot Topics!" cheat sheet on focus areas. I figure it'll be good for a general overview of important issues as well. I also tried to get through some Property questions, and am still muddling through them as a matter of fact!
Now, I'm going to type up my list and watch some "Where the Heart Is" (love that Wal-mart baby movie!) with husband and eat some sushi. The cold is still kicking in full gear but thank God, it's mostly congestion and occasional coughing. It's tolerable. I'm hoping to get lots of rest and nipping this NOW. Let's keep up the pace folks...the end is in sight. =)
Now, I'm going to type up my list and watch some "Where the Heart Is" (love that Wal-mart baby movie!) with husband and eat some sushi. The cold is still kicking in full gear but thank God, it's mostly congestion and occasional coughing. It's tolerable. I'm hoping to get lots of rest and nipping this NOW. Let's keep up the pace folks...the end is in sight. =)
Friday, July 06, 2007
Do or Die
Post-4th of July = Do or Die time in the bar world. There are fiery debates ranging in bar exam world as to whether we can pass this thing if we just focus hard enough now. Many say that after the 4th is when the "serious" studying begins while others insist that it should have begun a month ago.
The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle, depending on the individual. The key is to study smart and to focus. It's not about the hours we log in, it's about the deliberate way we choose to study.
Now, if only I weren't sick. I've been feeling under the weather for about a week, and now I'm just a congested mess. Must. Push. Forward! In good news, today was my last day of work until after the bar. Thank God. After being completely distracted and guilty, I can now focus my full energy on studying. And yay, I don't have to wake up at 6:30 anymore!!!
The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle, depending on the individual. The key is to study smart and to focus. It's not about the hours we log in, it's about the deliberate way we choose to study.
Now, if only I weren't sick. I've been feeling under the weather for about a week, and now I'm just a congested mess. Must. Push. Forward! In good news, today was my last day of work until after the bar. Thank God. After being completely distracted and guilty, I can now focus my full energy on studying. And yay, I don't have to wake up at 6:30 anymore!!!
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Happy 4th of July!
There's a nice feeling about everyone emerging from their respective bar exam misery and taking a moment to honor this most American of holidays. Even though my little cousin asked me who America was freed from oh so long ago and I had to think past BBQs and fireworks to recall exactly what this holiday was all about, all I know is that for me, the 4th of July is a time when friends and family get together in a show of unity and camaderie and enjoy the day. That, after all, is what America fought for -- the simple pleasure of enjoying life with those you love! To that end, we will overindulge in alcohol, food, and fireworks. How very American.
I love the summer in CA -- hot days followed by balmy nights, ice cream trucks, kids out on vacation, flip flops and light dresses...just the whole leisurely, idyllic pace of it all. I will try and do as many MBEs as possible, then head over to my uncle's for a sushi feast (odd, but yummy). Followed by a BBQ. I can't resist! I mean, this is what we're studying for, right? The most sacred of all documents? The Constitution of the United States of America? To celebrate the freedom of being an American? Freedom is not studying for the bar! The justifications will just keep on coming... =)
Take a moment...enjoy the day.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
The CA Bar Exam Grading Process -- The Mystery Revealed
I just met with a former bar grader and well-respected bar tutor today, and she explained the mystery of the CA Bar Exam grading process. At last! Knowing this lies the key to success -- because you know what they're looking for. If you already know this, then hooray. If not, then read on...
1. The graders get together in small groups for what is known as a calibration session. They go through the essays and have to come up with the relevant issues, assigning point values to each of them. So you can get 15 points for discussing easements, 10 points for nuisance, and so forth, for a total of 100-110 points. It can exceed 100 points because graders can also assign "bonus" points. So this group of graders (who have already written out their model versions of the answers) subjectively decide on the issues to be graded on, and the points they will assign to each.
2. So each group of graders are different and the ranges and point values are different. The grading is determined subjectively by grading groups and your grade depends on the group your essay gets assigned to. The crucial point is that you have to do a little mental point tally when you read your exam. Note what the big issues are and work it. You can miss issues entirely and still pass if you pick up points on other issues.
3. Each grader is expected to grade 25 essays for appx. 2 hours a night and given boxes of 100 essays with due dates. You do the math. Many graders will procrastinate and realize that they have to grade all 100 in one night! So your essay is down to 1-2 minutes per read. I know this point has been beaten to death, but YOU MUST MAKE IT EASY FOR GRADERS TO READ YOUR ESSAY. Break it down into headings and organize it. They're not going to look for it. Even if you have it, they may not see it.
4. If you're not sure if something is an issue, use it -- but sparingly. Don't be completely ridiculous. I'm talking about Hearsay exceptions and things like that. Graders will not dock points if you throw in extra. Remember, they give you points for spotting the issues and analyzing them. So if you have it in there, at least you'll get some points.
5. Sometimes you'll get a ridiculous question that seems to have no tangible areas of law. Reason through it. Spot the issue, state a rule, and analyze it. Use common sense. Often, you'll stumble across the rule even though you don't use the official name for it through your reasoning. Hey, you still get the points!
7. If you don't know the answer, argue both sides. Remember, you get points for spotting the issue, and points don't get deducted if you argue the other side!
8. Don't forget the basics -- read the question THOROUGHLY and know what the call of the prompt is.
9. ANALYZE. Especially if it's a "big points" issue -- you want to really show the grader you know what you're talking about. Often, the difference between a 50 and a 70 is because of analyzation. They both spot the same issues, but the 50 does a cursory job on analysis whereas the 70 really works through it. Ask yourself WHY, and discuss it.
10. This exam is about being savvy in knowing what the graders want, not about knowing the law cold. Knowing the law obviously helps you think out , organized, well-reasoned answers. But if you don't know it cold, you can still write out a well-reasoned answer. Just read the prompt carefully, use the words in the prompt, and reason it out with common sense.
Let me know if you have any specific questions about the grading process. If it's not something we discussed, I can get the answer for you!
1. The graders get together in small groups for what is known as a calibration session. They go through the essays and have to come up with the relevant issues, assigning point values to each of them. So you can get 15 points for discussing easements, 10 points for nuisance, and so forth, for a total of 100-110 points. It can exceed 100 points because graders can also assign "bonus" points. So this group of graders (who have already written out their model versions of the answers) subjectively decide on the issues to be graded on, and the points they will assign to each.
2. So each group of graders are different and the ranges and point values are different. The grading is determined subjectively by grading groups and your grade depends on the group your essay gets assigned to. The crucial point is that you have to do a little mental point tally when you read your exam. Note what the big issues are and work it. You can miss issues entirely and still pass if you pick up points on other issues.
3. Each grader is expected to grade 25 essays for appx. 2 hours a night and given boxes of 100 essays with due dates. You do the math. Many graders will procrastinate and realize that they have to grade all 100 in one night! So your essay is down to 1-2 minutes per read. I know this point has been beaten to death, but YOU MUST MAKE IT EASY FOR GRADERS TO READ YOUR ESSAY. Break it down into headings and organize it. They're not going to look for it. Even if you have it, they may not see it.
4. If you're not sure if something is an issue, use it -- but sparingly. Don't be completely ridiculous. I'm talking about Hearsay exceptions and things like that. Graders will not dock points if you throw in extra. Remember, they give you points for spotting the issues and analyzing them. So if you have it in there, at least you'll get some points.
5. Sometimes you'll get a ridiculous question that seems to have no tangible areas of law. Reason through it. Spot the issue, state a rule, and analyze it. Use common sense. Often, you'll stumble across the rule even though you don't use the official name for it through your reasoning. Hey, you still get the points!
7. If you don't know the answer, argue both sides. Remember, you get points for spotting the issue, and points don't get deducted if you argue the other side!
8. Don't forget the basics -- read the question THOROUGHLY and know what the call of the prompt is.
9. ANALYZE. Especially if it's a "big points" issue -- you want to really show the grader you know what you're talking about. Often, the difference between a 50 and a 70 is because of analyzation. They both spot the same issues, but the 50 does a cursory job on analysis whereas the 70 really works through it. Ask yourself WHY, and discuss it.
10. This exam is about being savvy in knowing what the graders want, not about knowing the law cold. Knowing the law obviously helps you think out , organized, well-reasoned answers. But if you don't know it cold, you can still write out a well-reasoned answer. Just read the prompt carefully, use the words in the prompt, and reason it out with common sense.
Let me know if you have any specific questions about the grading process. If it's not something we discussed, I can get the answer for you!
Monday, July 02, 2007
Hmm...
Do you find yourself thinking about absolutely everything else you need to do OTHER than study for the bar? I become positively obsessed. Today, I let the timer on my MBEs go on and on as I stressed about what I would take to the 4th of July party I'm going to.* And what I was going to wear. And what I needed to return at Target. And if I transferred funds to my checking account. I almost left Border's then and there to go do take care of these things. I think the mentality is that if I clear this stuff out of my head, then I can sit down and concentrate on studying. The problem is, it never ends. Every minute task looms in my head like a giant elephant in the room and picks at my mind as I ponder over the admissibility of evidence in an MBE question.
I think it's a sophisticated form of procrastination.
And unfortunately, the itching has started up again. I got up about 3 times yesterday, absolutely unable to sleep because the sheets and everything made me feel itchy. So now, I'm washing all my sheets. Again.
Another way to procrastinate.
* Oh, and that 4th of July party? I think I'm going with a really nice cake (I've been assigned dessert) and a fruit platter. I even bought a special platter from Target. It starts in the evening and will be over relatively early because, thankfully, people have work on Thursday. As such, I have the whole day to study. So I refuse to feel guilty...but I still kinda do.
I think it's a sophisticated form of procrastination.
And unfortunately, the itching has started up again. I got up about 3 times yesterday, absolutely unable to sleep because the sheets and everything made me feel itchy. So now, I'm washing all my sheets. Again.
Another way to procrastinate.
* Oh, and that 4th of July party? I think I'm going with a really nice cake (I've been assigned dessert) and a fruit platter. I even bought a special platter from Target. It starts in the evening and will be over relatively early because, thankfully, people have work on Thursday. As such, I have the whole day to study. So I refuse to feel guilty...but I still kinda do.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Sunglasses, a Good Bag, and a Pedicure
I'll throw my hair up in a messy ponytail. Makeup is hurriedly applied, if at all. Flip flops, jeans, and a tank are considered fully dressed. Many things are a wreck, especially these days. But I can still feel human as long as I'm out the door with a great pedi, fabulous bag, and sunglasses on.
At a time when everything else is sliding downhill, it's important to feel human.
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