When I enrolled in law school, I had many expectations. I knew that I had much to learn and that the process would be challenging.

I also realized that it would involve substantial time and financial commitments. However, law school is unlike other educational institutions. It not only educates you, it changes the way you think.

After I became a law student, I started reacting to situations differently and making decisions that I would not originally have made. This shift affected my personality and had a tremendous impact on my personal life. For this, I was completely unprepared.

I believe the personality changes that I have experienced were positive. I have become more confident, assertive and analytical. I am now aware of issues that I would have previously overlooked, and am more determined to make sure people take my views and feelings seriously. Most importantly, however, I have learned how to protect myself from people who have previously been able to deceive and manipulate me.

These changes were difficult for me to accept because I was a relatively passive person prior to law school. I do not believe that the word "no" was in my vocabulary, and I was certainly not accustomed to using it. Initially, using this new-to-me word left me feeling extremely guilty. Nevertheless, the amount of work assigned in law school forced me to focus and prioritize my time. As a result, I often had to take care of myself before I could cater to the needs of the people in my life. In the process, I learned that there is nothing wrong with refusing to do something when the situation calls for it, and I no longer simply tolerate unacceptable behavior.

I believe that it was even more difficult for my loved ones to accept these changes. For the first time, I chose to put my schoolwork before many of my social obligations and was always unavailable. In college, when I was busy for short periods, my friends and family members were supportive and understanding. However, during law school, I barely had any time to socialize over the course of a few years. In addition, I was unable to do many of the things that some of my friends had come to expect from me. I understand that this could cause even the most loyal people to feel abandoned, and many of my personal relationships suffered for this reason.

To make matters more complicated, when I was finally able to see my friends and family members, they encountered someone they did not recognize. Being unaccustomed to my new mannerisms, they were uncertain how to act. It was as if they were meeting me for the first time, which was very difficult for all of us. Luckily, most of the important people in my life cared enough to accept me for who I had become and were willing to overlook the fact that I was never around. Nevertheless, others were unable to adapt and, as a result, those relationships ended.

When I think about those people who decided to leave my life, I keep two things in mind. First, I think they did what was right for them, and I wish them the best. Second, I realize that if they were unable to stand by me because I changed somewhat, then perhaps we were not as close as I thought we were. Either way, I never thought law school would put that type of strain on my personal life. However, I am glad it did, because it helped me to see whom I can really depend on.

I think that those considering enrolling need to realize that the adage "Law school teaches you how to think like a lawyer" is true, and that this way of thinking extends beyond the classroom and law office. Personal relationships will be tested, and tough be decisions will have to be made.

For some students, this can be a long, difficult and lonely journey. However, in the end, you will emerge a stronger person with a group of supportive friends that you know you can really trust. I believe that this makes the transition well worth the challenges you will encounter. I am a much happier person for having gone through the process.

A third-year student at the University at Buffalo Law School, Rachael Vitti is a graduate of the City University of New York's John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She can be reached at ravitti@buffalo.edu.