Donald J. Weidner Summer for Undergraduates Program: An Immersive Introduction to Law
The Donald J. Weidner Summer for Undergraduates Program offers an immersive introduction to the world of legal study. Since 1992, this award-winning program has brought undergraduate students from across the country together for an in-person experience centered on legal education. As the largest and oldest program of its kind, its primary goal is to acquaint students with the study of law and assist them in acquiring skills that will benefit their undergraduate and future law school studies.
Program Overview
Donald J. Weidner Summer for Undergraduates Program is a tuition-free, residency program held at Penn State Law in University Park, Pa., available to any undergraduate student interested in learning more about law school.
The Donald J. Weidner Summer for Undergraduates Program will take place in person from May 28 to June 18, 2026. This rigorous program is designed to provide students with a “taste” of the law school experience. The program will give you the opportunity to learn about multiple fields of law and myriad law careers from law professors, judges, and practicing attorneys.
Eligibility and Application
College students enrolled at two- and four-year institutions, in all majors and from all backgrounds, are invited to apply. The application process is very competitive.
To be eligible, students must not be enrolled in summer classes or involved in outside work during the program. Attendance and participation in all scheduled classes and activities are expected.
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The application for the Summer 2025 program was available online from December 3, 2024, through March 31, 2025. There is no application fee, and the program is offered at no cost to participants.
Program Components
The Donald J. Weidner Summer for Undergraduates Program offers several key components:
Classroom Experience
Daily classes are taught by law school professors. Lectures simulate first-year law classes and familiarize students with the functions of the American legal system.
Law School Admissions Process
Students are given the opportunity to talk to the admissions staff and committee regarding the important aspects of the law school application process.
Benefits and Support
Thanks to the generosity of Florida State Law alumnus Wayne Hogan ('72), President of Terrell Hogan, and his wife, Patricia, the program has grown considerably and is permanently endowed.
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Apartment-style on-campus dormitory housing is provided, and each participant will receive a meal card for the duration of the program. Participants are responsible for their personal transportation to and from Tallahassee.
Other Programs to Explore
For students interested in similar programs, consider the following:
Explore Law: This program targets college students who have just completed either their first, second or third year.
NY LEO: NY LEO is designed to assist minority, low-income and economically disadvantaged students in acquiring the skills necessary to succeed in law school.
The Prelaw Undergraduate Scholars (PLUS) programs: These programs are targeted, but not restricted, to college students from racial and ethnic minority groups underrepresented in the legal profession.
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PPIA Fellowship Program: The goal of the PPIA Fellowship Program is to help students achieve a Master’s or joint degree, typically in public policy, public administration, international affairs or a related field.
Ronald H. Brown Center: Furthers the Ron Brown Center’s mission of engaging in legal studies, research, and outreach on issues affecting the lives of disadvantaged and underrepresented people; increasing racial and socioeconomic diversity in the legal profession; and educating law students to be leaders on issues of racial, economic, and social justice. Prepares students for the challenges of law school and for the law school application process.
Trials: Trials seeks to promote diversity at America’s leading law schools and in the legal profession. Our explicit aim is to support students of modest means whose racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds are underrepresented in America’s top-rated JD programs. We welcome applications from all motivated students of any background whose personal circumstances, self-identifications, and unique perspectives might place them outside the mainstream of typical law school applicants. We will give particular consideration to those candidates who attend colleges that traditionally send no more than one graduate per year to the partnering law schools. Preference is given to students of color and first-generation college students. A competitive program, we are looking for students who exhibit academic promise and have a GPA of 3.0 or above.
DiscoverLaw.org PreLaw Undergraduate Scholars (PLUS) Program at the University of Maine School of Law: This program will teach oral, written, and leadership skills that will be useful in whatever community you live and any career you choose to pursue. This program is targeted, but not restricted, to college students from racial and ethnic minority groups and first generation students, underrepresented in the legal profession (e.g. African American/Black, Latino/Hispanic, American Indian/Alaskan Native). In addition, individuals who are the first in their family to attend college will be given preferred consideration. Students should be first generation college students, low income, or members of groups underrepresented in the legal profession.
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