First Year Shock is a career guide and self-help resource designed to help incoming law students navigate the intense pressures of their first year. It addresses often-overlooked realities, such as the overwhelming reading load and the unique grading system, providing practical strategies for stress management. The book highlights that proactive preparation is key to mitigating the 'first year shock,' turning potential struggles into opportunities for growth.

The book tackles the pervasive performance anxiety that many students experience, offering techniques for managing stress and improving focus. It also explains the Socratic method and case briefing process, providing context for the challenges of legal education. First Year Shock progresses by dissecting the reading load, demystifying the grading system, and tackling performance anxiety head-on, culminating in a chapter dedicated to self-care.