PLSI
The American Indian Law Center is an Indian-managed and Indian-operated legal and public policy organization established in 1967. It is a national leader for tribal governments and organizations in the development and analysis of federal Indian law and policy, and offers this summer program to prepare American Indians and Alaskan Native individuals for their first year of law school. Participants become part of a cohort of Native American law students from around the country that supports them through law schools and after graduation.
Providing a pathway for all Native Americans to succeed in legal education
Mitchell Hamline has worked with PLSI since 2008. PLSI is an intensive two-month program that prepares American Indian and Alaskan Native students for law school by introducing them to the skills, concepts, and courses taught in the first semester of law school. In the eight-week program, PLSI concentrates its content on law school research, analysis, and writing. Any Native American who is interested in attending law school is encouraged to participate in the PLSI program.
The program is organized in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and accepts all Native American students who have been admitted to a law school as well as for students whose application is still in review. Participants are not charged tuition to attend. However, funds are needed to travel to and from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and for foods and lodging. The maximum number of attendees is 36. Students attending the PLSI program have an opportunity to establish relationships with Native lawyers nationwide and be better prepared for law school and a career in the field.