If I didnt have to study for the LSAT I would definitely look into that (even in my early 20s I feel like switching my life plan would be impossible. Kinda sad really). But thats awesome that you are planning to take it! How long in advance do you start studying? And this might be too early to ask, but what are you planning to do after you take it?
Well, I took the LSAT last October and all I can say is, I'm actually kind of relieved I didn't get into my first choice school. My studying for the FSOT is not nearly as intense as my study for the LSAT, but it doesn't have to be. The process is much more mysterious than all that LSAT and LSAC stuff. I'm really just preparing to take the written exam as best I can. There's no telling what will be on it. They like to say "it's an inch deep and a mile wide." If I pass that, then it's on to the oral portion, which is a whole other beast. Then comes the security clearance, which is a whole other thing too. Then, once in the pool, there's a mysterious selection process and if I don't get selected, I'd have to start from scratch. And before all that I have to select which career path I'd like to take from a pool of choices. All told, it's about a 1.5-3 year process. I spoke with a retired ambassador the other day and he seemed to think I had a better shot than some, though he joined in the 60's. I haven't had a taste of the job yet, but I'm really dying to give it a shot. To answer your question, I'm trying to figure out how to leverage existing skills into a job where I'll be able to develop in ways that would make me a more appealing candidate for FSO selection. That former ambassador I spoke to didn't have many ideas on that one. Oh well. Hey, good luck on the LSAT. Don't burn out, it's pretty easy to do and the competition is still pretty fierce even though enrollments are down.