How to Write a Compelling Personal Statement for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
Learn how to write a compelling personal statement that will make your application stand out for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law.
Posted May 12, 2023
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If you're applying to Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law, you likely already know that the personal statement is a critical component of your application. A well-written personal statement can help you stand out from other applicants and convey your passion for the law and your potential as a law student. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know to create a compelling personal statement that showcases your strengths and tells your story effectively.
What Makes a Personal Statement Stand Out for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law?
There are several key elements that can help your personal statement stand out to the admissions committee at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. First and foremost, your personal statement should be well-written, engaging, and coherent. It should also be tailored to Northwestern specifically, highlighting your fit with the school's values and culture.
In addition, a standout personal statement will showcase your unique experiences, passions, and skills that have prepared you for law school. This could include relevant work or internship experience, academic achievements, community involvement, or extracurricular activities. Finally, your personal statement should demonstrate your potential to contribute to the Northwestern community and your commitment to the legal profession.
It is important to note that Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law values diversity and inclusivity. Therefore, your personal statement should also highlight how your background and experiences have shaped your perspective and how you can contribute to a diverse and inclusive community at Northwestern. This could include discussing your experiences with overcoming adversity, working with individuals from different backgrounds, or advocating for underrepresented groups.
Understanding the Purpose of a Personal Statement for Law School Admissions
Before you begin writing your personal statement, it's important to understand its purpose within the law school admissions process. Put simply, your personal statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions committee and persuade them that you're a strong candidate for their program. Your personal statement should highlight your unique qualifications, interests, and goals, and demonstrate your fit with the school's values and culture.
It's important to keep in mind that the admissions committee will likely read hundreds of personal statements, so yours needs to stand out. This means avoiding cliches and generic language, and instead focusing on concrete experiences and examples that illustrate your strengths and potential as a law student.
One way to make your personal statement stand out is to incorporate your personal story into it. This can include discussing challenges you've faced and how you've overcome them, or sharing experiences that have shaped your interest in law. By sharing your unique perspective and experiences, you can demonstrate to the admissions committee that you have the qualities and skills necessary to succeed in law school.
Another important aspect of a strong personal statement is demonstrating your knowledge of the law school and its programs. This can include discussing specific courses or professors that interest you, or highlighting the school's reputation in a particular area of law. By showing that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the school, you can further persuade the admissions committee that you're a strong fit for their program.
Researching Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law and Its Values
In order to tailor your personal statement to Northwestern specifically, it's important to do some research on the school and its values. This could include browsing the school's website, attending a virtual information session, or speaking with current students or alumni.
Some key values and qualities that Northwestern looks for in its law students include a commitment to social justice, academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and resilience. As you write your personal statement, consider how you can demonstrate these qualities through concrete examples from your own experiences and achievements.
Additionally, it's important to note that Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law has a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and collaboration. The school offers joint degree programs with other schools within Northwestern, such as the Kellogg School of Management and the Medill School of Journalism. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to gain a broader understanding of the law and its impact on various industries and fields.
Choosing Your Personal Statement Topic and Approach for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
Now that you've done your research, it's time to brainstorm potential topics for your personal statement. Some common approaches include discussing a formative experience or challenge that shaped your interest in the law, highlighting your relevant skills or experiences, or discussing a specific legal issue or area of interest.
As you choose your topic, it's important to keep Northwestern's values in mind and ensure that your personal statement aligns with them. Try to avoid cliches or overly generic statements, and instead focus on concrete details and examples that illustrate your unique strengths and potential.
Another important factor to consider when choosing your personal statement topic is to make sure that it is relevant to your future career goals. Think about what you hope to achieve with your law degree and how your personal statement can demonstrate your commitment to those goals.
Additionally, don't be afraid to seek feedback from others as you develop your personal statement. Consider asking a trusted mentor, professor, or friend to review your draft and provide constructive criticism to help you refine your approach and ensure that your personal statement is as strong as possible.
Organizing and Structuring Your Personal Statement for Maximum Impact
Once you've chosen your topic and approach, it's time to think about how to structure your personal statement for maximum impact. A strong personal statement should have a clear and engaging introduction that draws the reader in, a compelling narrative that tells your story and showcases your strengths, and a conclusion that sums up your main points and leaves a lasting impression.
You may also want to consider using subheadings or section breaks to help organize your personal statement and make it more reader-friendly.
Writing Your Introduction: Captivating the Admissions Committee's Attention
Your introduction is your opportunity to grab the reader's attention and set the tone for your personal statement. Some effective approaches include starting with a catchy hook, sharing a surprising or memorable anecdote, or highlighting a key theme or idea that will be developed throughout your personal statement.
Whatever approach you choose, it's important to make your introduction engaging and memorable, while also staying focused on your topic and avoiding irrelevant or tangential information.
Crafting Your Narrative: Telling Your Story Effectively for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
The narrative or main body of your personal statement is where you'll develop your key themes and ideas, and showcase your strengths and potential as a law student. Some effective approaches to crafting your narrative include using concrete examples and anecdotes, highlighting your relevant skills and experiences, and demonstrating your commitment to social justice and other important values.
As you write, it's important to avoid generic or overly philosophical statements, and instead focus on specific details and examples that illustrate your unique strengths and potential.
Highlighting Your Relevant Experiences and Skills for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
One key purpose of your personal statement is to showcase your relevant experiences and skills that have prepared you for law school and a career in the legal profession. This could include internships, volunteer work, leadership roles, academic achievements, or other relevant experiences.
As you highlight your relevant experiences and skills, make sure to tie them back to Northwestern's values and culture, and show how they've prepared you for success in law school and beyond.
Addressing Weaknesses or Gaps in Your Application through Your Personal Statement
Another important purpose of your personal statement is to address weaknesses or gaps in your application, such as a low GPA or LSAT score, or a gap in your resume. If there are significant weaknesses or gaps in your application, it's important to address them head-on in your personal statement.
However, it's also important to strike a balance between acknowledging weaknesses and emphasizing your strengths and potential. Be honest and genuine in your personal statement, but also stay focused on demonstrating your fit with Northwestern and your potential as a law student.
Emphasizing Why You Want to Attend Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law Specifically
In addition to showcasing your strengths and potential, your personal statement should also emphasize why you want to attend Northwestern specifically. This could include highlighting specific programs or initiatives that align with your interests and goals, discussing the school's location or community, or citing specific faculty or alumni that inspire you.
Whatever approach you choose, make sure to tie it back to Northwestern's values and culture, and show that you've done your research and are a good fit for the school.
Tips and Tricks for Editing and Polishing Your Personal Statement
Once you've written your personal statement, it's important to spend time editing and polishing it to ensure that it's as strong as possible. Some tips and tricks for editing and polishing your personal statement include getting feedback from others, reading it aloud to catch errors or awkward phrasing, and making sure it meets the word limit and formatting requirements.
It's also important to ensure that your personal statement is authentic and genuine, and showcases your unique strengths and potential as a law student and future lawyer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Writing a Personal Statement for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law
As you write your personal statement, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include using generic or cliched language, focusing too much on weaknesses or gaps in your application, failing to show your fit with Northwestern specifically, and failing to provide concrete examples and details that illustrate your unique strengths and potential.
By avoiding these common mistakes and staying focused on Northwestern's values and culture, you can create a compelling and effective personal statement that showcases your strengths and potential as a law student.
Examples of Successful Personal Statements for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law Admissions
If you're looking for inspiration as you write your personal statement, it can be helpful to read examples of successful personal statements from previous Northwestern law students. These can provide insight into effective approaches, writing styles, and themes that resonate with the admissions committee.
However, it's important to remember that your personal statement should be unique and tailored to your own experiences and goals.
In conclusion, writing a compelling personal statement for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law requires careful planning, research, and attention to detail. By understanding the purpose of the personal statement, researching Northwestern's values and culture, choosing a strong topic and approach, and showcasing your unique strengths and potential, you can create a personal statement that stands out to the admissions committee and helps you achieve your law school goals.
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18 Law School Personal Statement Examples That Got Accepted!
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This blog contains law school personal statement examples written by applicants who were successfully accepted to multiple law schools after working with our admissions experts as part of our l aw school admissions consulting services . Your law school personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application and is your best opportunity to show admissions officers who you are behind your numbers and third-party assessments. Because of its importance, many students find the personal statement to be daunting and demanding of the full scope of their skills as writers. Today we're going to review these excellent law school personal statement examples from past successful applicants and provide some proven strategies from a former admissions officer that can help you prepare your own stellar essay.
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Article Contents 44 min read
Law school personal statement example #1.
When I was a child, my neighbors, who had arrived in America from Nepal, often seemed stressed. They argued a lot, struggled for money, and seemed to work all hours of the day. One day, I woke early in the morning to a commotion outside my apartment. Police officers were accompanying my neighbors out of the building. They were being deported. In my teens, I was shocked to see that our kind, friendly neighbors had exhausted their last chance to stay in America as they lost a court appeal.
Since that time, I have worked closely with the many immigrant families in my neighborhood, and now university town. I began by volunteering at a local community center. Together with social workers, I served food and gave out clothes to new arrivals. My diligent work ethic led to more responsibility, and I received training in basic counseling techniques, first aid skills and community services. Soon, I was tasked with welcoming new community members and assessing their health and social needs. I heard the many difficult stories of those who had traveled thousands of miles, often through several countries, risking everything to reach a safe, welcoming country. I was proud to contribute in some small way to making America welcoming for these individuals.
The community center is where I had my first formal contact with legal aid lawyers, who were a constant source of knowledge and support for those who needed assistance. I was struck by the lawyers’ ability to explain complex legal processes to nervous and exhausted incomers: law, I realized, was about more than procedure. I decided that I, too, would strive to balance a wealth of technical knowledge with my caring, compassionate personality.
As soon as I enrolled in university, I knew I had the chance to do so. In my very first week, I signed up to volunteer at the university’s legal aid center, where I worked closely with law professors and students on a range of cases. Academically, I have focused on courses, such as a fourth-year Ethics seminar, that would help me develop rigorous critical reasoning skills. More importantly, I knew that, given my experience, I could be a leader on campus. I decided to found a refugee campaign group, Students4Refugees. Together with a group of volunteers, we campaigned to make our campus a refugee-friendly space. I organized a series of events: international student mixers, an art installation in our student commons, and concerts that raised over $5,000 for the charity Refugee Aid. I am proud to say that my contributions were recognized with a university medal for campus leadership.
I have seen time and again how immigrants to the United States struggle with bureaucracy, with complex legal procedures, and with the demands of living in a foreign and sometimes hostile climate. As I plan to enter law school, I look back to my neighbors’ experiences: they needed someone who knew the law, who could negotiate with the authorities on their behalf, who could inform them of their rights—but they also needed someone who would provide a caring and compassionate outlet for their stresses. I know that Townsville University’s combination of academic rigor, legal aid services, and history of graduates entering labor and non-profit sectors will allow me to develop these skills and continue making contributions to my community by advocating for those in need.
- Thematic consistency: It focuses on just one theme: justice for immigrants. Each paragraph is designed to show off how enthusiastic the student is about this area of law. Personal statements—including those for law school—often begin with a personal anecdote. This one is short, memorable, and relevant. It establishes the overall theme quickly. By constraining their essay’s focus to a single general theme, the writer can go into great depth and weave in emotional and psychological weight through careful and vivid description. The personal statement isn’t a standard 3-paragraph college essay with a spotlight thesis statement, but it conveys similar impact through presenting a central focus organically, without resorting to simply blurting out “the point” of the piece.
- Shows, rather than tells: Connected to this, this statement focuses on showing rather than telling. Rather than simply telling the reader about their commitment to law, the applicant describes specific situations they were involved in that demonstrate their commitment to law. “Show don’t tell” means you want to paint a vivid picture of actions or experiences that demonstrate a given quality or skill, and not simply say "I can do X." Make it an experience for your reader, don't just give them a fact.
- Confident, but not arrogant: Additionally, this personal statement is confident without being boastful—leadership qualities, grades, and an award are all mentioned in context, rather than appearing as a simple list of successes.
- Specific to the school: It ends with a conclusion that alludes to why the applicant is suitable for the specific school to which they’re applying and points to their future career plans. Thoroughly researching the law school to which you’re applying is incredibly important so that you can tailor your remarks to the specific qualities and values they’re looking for. A law essay writing service is really something that can help you integrate this aspect effectively.
What Should a Law School Personal Statement Do?
1. be unique to the school you’re applying to.
Students are always asking how to write a personal statement for law school, particularly one that stands out from all the rest. After all, advice from most universities can often be quite vague. Take this zinger from the University of Chicago : “Write about something personal, relevant, and completely individual to you… Just be yourself.” Every school will have different requirements or content they want to see in a personal statement. This is why it’s a good idea to review specific guidelines for the school to which you’re applying. For example, you can read Yale Law School personal statement examples , Stanford Law personal statement examples , and an NYU personal statement to get an idea of what these schools look for.
2. Demonstrate your skills and capabilities
For motivated students with the world at their fingertips, it’s a tough ask to narrow your character down into a few hundred words! But this is exactly the point of such generic guidelines—to challenge aspiring law students to produce something unique and convincing with minimal direction by the university. Law is, after all, a profession that demands your language to be persuasive, and the personal statement is merely one of many exercises where you can demonstrate your language skills.
3. Meet basic requirements
While the law school personal statement is about far more than just following essay directions, you still need to keep basic formatting and length restrictions in mind. Most law schools ask for a 2-page personal statement, but lengths can range from 2-4 pages. Georgetown Law School , for instance, recommends a 2-page personal statement but explicitly states that there is no official minimum or maximum. In general, length does not make a personal statement better. Rambling, meandering sentences and tiresome descriptions will only hurt the impact of your ideas, especially considering how many thousands of pages admissions committees have to churn through each year.
In short, keep to 2 double-spaced pages, and only go below or above this is if you absolutely have to, and if the school to which you're applying allows it. You want to keep things as widely applicable as possible while drafting your personal statement, meaning that you don't want to draft a 4 page letter for the one school that allows it, and then have to significantly rewrite this for your other schools. Stick to 2 pages.
4. Embody what the school is looking for
Lastly, many law schools won’t offer hyper-specific prompts, but will give you general law school admissions essay topics to follow. For instance, the University of Washington’s law school provides a number of topics to follow, including “Describe a personal challenge you faced” or “Describe your passions and involvement in a project or pursuit and the ways in which it has contributed to your personal growth and goals.” These topics may feel specific at first, but as you begin drafting, you’ll likely realize you have dozens of memories to choose from, and numerous ways of describing their impact. While drafting, try to explore as many of these options as possible, and select the best or most impactful to use in your final draft.
Law School Personal Statement Example #2
In my home community, the belief is that the law is against us. The law oppresses and victimizes. I must admit that as a child and young person I had this opinion based on my environment and the conversations around me. I did not understand that the law could be a vehicle for social change, and I certainly did not imagine I had the ability and talents to be a voice for this change. I regularly attended my high school classes because I enjoyed the discussions and reading for English and history, and writing came easily to me, but I wasn’t committed to getting good grades because I felt I had no purpose. My mindset changed as I spent time with Mark Russell, a law student who agreed to mentor and tutor me as part of a “high school to law school” mentorship program. Every week, for three years, Mark and I would meet. At first, Mark tutored me, but I quickly became an “A” student, not only because of the tutoring, but because my ambitions were uncorked by what Mark shared with me about university, the law, and his life. I learned grades were the currency I needed to succeed. I attended mock trials, court hearings, and law lectures with Mark and developed a fresh understanding of the law that piqued an interest in law school. My outlook has changed because my mentor, my teachers, and my self-advocacy facilitated my growth. Still, injustices do occur. The difference is that I now believe the law can be an instrument for social change, but voices like mine must give direction to policy and resources in order to fight those injustices.
Early in my mentorship, I realized it was necessary to be “in the world” differently if I were to truly consider a law career. With Mark’s help and the support of my high school teachers, I learned to advocate for myself and explore opportunities that would expand my worldview as well as my academic skills. I joined a Model UN club at a neighboring high school, because my own school did not have enough student interest to have a club. By discussing global issues and writing decisions, I began to feel powerful and confident with my ability to gather evidence and make meaningful decisions about real global issues. As I built my leadership, writing, and public speaking skills, I noticed a rift developing with some of my friends. I wanted them to begin to think about larger systemic issues outside of our immediate experience, as I was learning to, and to build confidence in new ways. I petitioned my school to start a Model UN and recruited enough students to populate the club. My friends did not join the club as I’d hoped, but before I graduated, we had 2 successful years with the students who did join. I began to understand that I cannot force change based on my own mandate, but I must listen attentively to the needs and desires of others in order to support them as they require.
While I learned to advocate for myself throughout high school, I also learned to advocate for others. My neighbors, knowing my desire to be a lawyer, would often ask me to advocate on their behalf with small grievances. I would make phone calls, stand in line with them at government offices, and deal with difficult landlords. A woman, Elsa, asked me to review her rental agreement to help her understand why her landlord had rented it to someone else, rather than renewing her lease. I scoured the rental agreement, highlighted questionable sections, read the Residential Tenancies Act, and developed a strategy for approaching the landlord. Elsa and I sat down with the landlord and, upon seeing my binder complete with indices, he quickly conceded before I could even speak. That day, I understood evidence is the way to justice. My interest in justice grew, and while in university, I sought experiences to solidify my decision to pursue law.
Last summer, I had the good fortune to work as a summer intern in the Crown Attorney’s Office responsible for criminal trial prosecutions. As the only pre-law intern, I was given tasks such as reviewing court tapes, verifying documents, and creating a binder with indices. I often went to court with the prosecutors where I learned a great deal about legal proceedings, and was at times horrified by human behavior. This made the atmosphere in the Crown Attorney’s office even more surprising. I worked with happy and passionate lawyers whose motivations were pubic service, the safety and well-being of communities, and justice. The moment I realized justice was their true objective, not the number of convictions, was the moment I decided to become a lawyer.
I broke from the belief systems I was born into. I did this through education, mentorship, and self-advocacy. There is sadness because in this transition I left people behind, especially as I entered university. However, I am devoted to my home community. I understand the barriers that stand between youth and their success. As a law student, I will mentor as I was mentored, and as a lawyer, I will be a voice for change.
What’s Great about this Second Law School Personal Statement?
- It tells a complete and compelling story: Although the applicant expressed initial reservations about the law generally, the statement tells a compelling story of how the applicant's opinions began to shift and their interest in law began. They use real examples and show how that initial interest, once seeded, grew into dedication and passion. This introduction implies an answer to the " why do you want to study law? ” interview question.
- It shows adaptability: Receptiveness to new information and the ability to change both thought and behavior based on this new information. The writer describes realizing that they needed to be "in the world" differently! It's hard to convey such a grandiose idea without sounding cliché, but through their captivating and chronological narrative, the writer successfully convinces the reader that this is the case with copious examples, including law school extracurriculars . It’s a fantastic case of showing rather than telling, describing specific causes they were involved with which demonstrate that the applicant is genuinely committed to a career in the law.
- Includes challenges the subject faced and overcame: This law school personal statement also discusses weighty, relatable challenges that they faced, such as the applicant's original feeling toward law, and the fact that they lost some friends along the way. However, the applicant shows determination to move past these hurdles without self-pity or other forms of navel-gazing. Additionally, this personal statement ends with a conclusion that alludes to why the applicant is suitable for the specific school to which they’re applying and points to their future career plans. The writer manages to craft an extremely immersive and believable story about their path to the present, while also managing to curate the details of this narrative to fit the specific values and mission of the school to which they’re applying.
What’s Great About This Third Law School Personal Statement?
- Description is concise and effective: This writer opens with rich, vivid description and seamlessly guides the reader into a compelling first-person narrative. Using punchy, attention-grabbing descriptions like these make events immersive, placing readers in the writer's shoes and creating a sense of immediacy.
- Achievements are the focus: They also do a fantastic job of talking about their achievements, such as interview team lead, program design, etc., without simply bragging. Instead, they deliver this information within a cohesive narrative that includes details, anecdotes, and information that shows their perspective in a natural way. Lastly, they invoke their passion for law with humility, discussing their momentary setbacks and frustrations as ultimately positive experiences leading to further growth.
Want more law school personal statement examples from top law schools?
- Harvard law school personal statement examples
- Columbia law school personal statement examples
- Cornell law school personal statement examples
- Yale law school personal statement examples
- UPenn law school personal statement examples
- Cambridge law school personal statement examples
Law School Personal Statement #4
What’s great about this fourth law school personal statement.
- Engaging description: Like the third example above, this fourth law school personal statement opens with engaging description and first-person narrative. However, the writer of this personal statement chooses to engage a traumatic aspect of their childhood and discuss how this adversity led them to develop their desire to pursue a career in law.
- Strong theme of overcoming adversity: Overcoming adversity is a frequent theme in personal statements for all specialties, but with law school personal statements students are often able to utilize uniquely dramatic, difficult, and pivotal experiences that involved interacting with the law. It may be hard to discuss such emotionally weighty experiences in a short letter but, as this personal statement shows, with care and focus it's possible to sincerely demonstrate how your early struggles paved the way for you to become the person you are now. It's important to avoid sensationalism, but you shouldn't shy away from opening up to your readers about adverse experiences that have ultimately pointed you in a positive direction.
Law School Personal Statement Example #5
What’s great about this fifth law school personal statement .
- Highlights achievements effectively: This writer does a fantastic job of incorporating their accomplishments and impact they had on their community without any sense of bragging or conceit. Rather, these accomplishments are related in terms of deep personal investment and a general drive to have a positive impact on those around them—without resorting to the cliches of simply stating "I want to help people." They show themselves helping others, and how these early experiences of doing so are a fundamental part of their drive to succeed with a career in law.
- Shows originality: Additionally, they do a great job of explaining the uniqueness of their identity. The writer doesn't simply list their personal/cultural characteristics, but contextualizes them to show how they've shaped their path to law school. Being the child of a Buddhist mother and a Hindu father doesn’t imply anything about a person’s ability to study/practice law on its own, but explaining how this unique aspect of their childhood encouraged a passion for “discussion, active debate, and compromise” is profoundly meaningful to an admissions panel. Being able to express how fundamental aspects of law practice are an integral part of yourself is a hugely helpful tactic in a law school personal statement.
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Law School Personal Statement Example #6
What’s great about this sixth law school personal statement .
- Weaves in cultural background: Similar to the writer of personal statement #5, this student utilizes the cultural uniqueness of their childhood to show how their path to law school was both deeply personal and rooted in ideas pervasive in their early years. Unlike the writer of statement #5, this student doesn't shy away from explaining how this distinctiveness was often a source of alienation and difficulty. Yet this adversity is, as they note, ultimately what helped them be an adaptable and driven student, with a clear desire to make a positive impact on the kinds of situations that they witnessed affect their parents.
- Describes setbacks while remaining positive: This writer also doesn't shy away from describing their temporary setbacks as both learning experiences and, crucially, springboards for positively informing their plans for the future.
What’s Great About This Seventh Law School Personal Statement?
- The writer takes accountability: One of the hardest things to accomplish in a personal statement is describing not just early setbacks that are out of your control but early mistakes for which you must take responsibility. The writer of this personal statement opens with descriptions of characteristics that most law schools would find problematic at best. But at the end of this introduction, they successfully utilize an epiphany, a game-changing moment in which they saw something beyond their early pathological aimlessness, to clearly mark the point at which they became focused on law.
- The narrative structure is clear: They clearly describe the path forward from this moment on, showing how they remained focused on earning a law degree, and how they were able to work through successive experiences of confusion to persist in finishing their undergraduate education at a prestigious university. Of course, you shouldn't brag about such things for their own sake, but this writer makes the point of opening up about the unique feelings of inadequacy that come along with being the first person in their family to attend such a school, and how these feelings were—like their initial aimlessness—mobilized in service of their goal and the well-being of others. Their statement balances discussion of achievement with humility, which is a difficult but impactful tactic when done well.
Law School Personal Statement Example #8
What’s great about this eighth law school personal statement .
- Shows commitment to the community: Commitment to one’s community is a prized value in both law students and law professionals. This writer successfully describes not only how they navigated the challenges in their group environments, such as their internship, the debate team, etc., but how these challenges strengthened their commitment to being a positive part of their communities. They don’t simply describe the skills and lessons they learned from these challenging environments, but also how these challenges ultimately made them even more committed to and appreciative of these kinds of dynamic, evolutionary settings.
- Avoids negative description: They also avoid placing blame or negatively describing the people in these situations, instead choosing to characterize inherent difficulties in terms neutral to the people around them. In this way, you can describe extremely challenging environments without coming off as resentful, and identify difficulties without being accusatory or, worse yet, accidentally or indirectly seeming like part of the problem. This writer manages to convey the difficulty and complexity of these experiences while continually returning to their positive long-term impact, and though you shouldn’t seek to “bright-side” the troubles in your life you should absolutely point out how these experiences have made you a more capable and mature student.
Law School Personal Statement Example #9
What’s great about this ninth law school personal statement .
- The writer effectively describes how their background shaped their decision to pursue law: Expressing privilege as adversity is something that very few students should even attempt, and fewer still can actually pull it off. But the writer of this personal statement does just that in their second paragraph, describing how the ease and comfort of their upbringing could have been a source of laziness or detachment, and often is for particularly well-off students, but instead served as a basis for their ongoing commitment to addressing the inequalities and difficulties of those less comfortable. Describing how you’ve developed into an empathic and engaged person, worked selflessly in any volunteer experiences, and generally aimed your academic life at a career in law for the aid of others—all this is incredibly moving for an admissions board, and can help you discuss your determination and understanding of exactly why you desire a career in law.
- The student shows adaptability, flexibility, and commitment: Additionally, this writer is able to show adaptability while describing their more prestigious appointments in a way that’s neither self-aggrandizing nor unappreciative. One of the big takeaways from this statement is the student’s commitment and flexibility, and these are both vitally important qualities to convey in your law school personal statement.
Law School Personal Statement Example #10
What’s great about this tenth law school personal statement .
Shows passion: If you’re one of the rare students for whom service to others has always been a core belief, by all means find a novel and engaging way of making this the guiding principle of your personal statement. Don’t overdo it—don’t veer into poetry or lofty philosophizing—but by all means let your passion guide your pen (well…keyboard). Every step of the way, this student relates their highs and lows, their challenges and successes, to an extremely earnest and sincere set of altruistic values invoked at the very beginning of their statement. Law school admissions boards don’t exactly prize monomania, but they do value intense and sustained commitment.
Shows maturity: This student also successfully elaborates this passion in relation to mature understanding. That is, they make repeated points about their developing understanding of law that sustains their hopefulness and emotional intensity while also incorporating knowledge of the sometimes troubling day-to-day challenges of the profession. Law schools aren’t looking for starry-eyed naivete, but they do value optimism and the ability to stay positive in a profession often defined by its difficulties and unpredictability.
Every pre-law student blames their lack of success on the large number of applicants, the heartless admissions committee members, or the high GPA and LSAT score cut offs. Check out our blog on law school acceptance rates to find out more about the law school admission statistics for law schools in the US . Having taught more than a thousand students every year, I can tell you the REAL truth about why most students get rejected:
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8 Additional Law School Personal Statement Examples
Now that you have a better idea of what your law school personal statement should include, and how you can make it stand out, here are five additional law school personal statements for you to review and get some inspiration:
Law school personal statement example #11
According to the business wire, 51 percent of students are not confident in their career path when they enroll in college. I was one of those students for a long time. My parents had always stressed the importance of education and going to college, so I knew that I wanted to get a tertiary education, I just didn’t know in what field. So, like many other students, I matriculated undecided and started taking introductory courses in the subjects that interest me. I took classes from the department of literature, philosophy, science, statistics, business, and so many others but nothing really called out to me.
I figured that maybe if I got some practical experience, I might get more excited about different fields. I remembered that my high school counselor had told me that medicine would be a good fit for me, and I liked the idea of a career that involved constant learning. So, I applied for an observership at my local hospital. I had to cross “doctor” off my list of post-graduate career options when I fainted in the middle of a consultation in the ER.
I had to go back to the drawing board and reflect on my choices. I decided to stop trying to make an emotional decision and focus on the data. So, I looked at my transcript thus far, and it quickly became clear to me that I had both an interest and an aptitude for business and technology. I had taken more courses in those two fields than in any others, and I was doing very well in them. My decision was reaffirmed when I spent the summer interning at a digital marketing firm during my senior year in college and absolutely loved my experience.
Since graduating, I have been working at that same firm and I am glad that I decided to major in business. I first started as a digital advertising assistant, and I quickly learned that the world of digital marketing is an incredibly fast-paced sink-or-swim environment. I didn’t mind it at all. I wanted to swim with the best of them and succeed. So far, my career in advertising has been challenging and rewarding in ways that I never could have imagined.
I remember the first potential client that I handled on my own. Everything had been going great until they changed their mind about an important detail a day before we were supposed to present our pitch. . I had a day to research and re-do a presentation that I’d been preparing for weeks. I was sure that I’d be next on the chopping block, but once again all I had to was take a step back and look at the information that I had. Focusing on the big picture helped me come up with a new pitch, and after a long night, lots of coffee, and laser-like focus, I delivered a presentation that I was not only proud of, but that landed us the client.
Three years and numerous client emergencies later, I have learned how to work under pressure, how to push myself, and how to think critically. I also have a much better understanding of who I am and what skills I possess. One of the many things that I have learned about myself over the course of my career is that I am a fan of the law. Over the past three years, I have worked with many lawyers to navigate the muddy waters of user privacy and digital media. I often find myself looking forward to working with our legal team, whereas my coworkers actively avoid them. I have even become friends with my colleagues on the legal team who also enjoy comparing things like data protection laws in the US and the EU and speculating about the future of digital technology regulation.
These experiences and conversations have led me to a point where I am interested in various aspects of the law. I now know that I have the skills required to pursue a legal education and that this time around, I am very sure about what I wish to study. Digital technology has evolved rapidly over the last decade, and it is just now starting to become regulated. I believe that this shift is going to open up a more prominent role for those who understand both digital technology and its laws, especially in the corporate world. My goal is to build a career at the intersection of these worlds.
Law school personal statement example #12
The first weekend I spent on my undergrad college campus was simultaneously one of the best and worst of my life. I was so excited to be away from home, on my own, making new friends and trying new things. One of those things was a party at a sorority house with my friend and roommate, where I thought we both had a great time. Both of us came from small towns, and we had decided to look out for one another. So, when it was time to go home, and I couldn't find her, I started to worry. I spent nearly an hour looking for her before I got her message saying she was already back in our dorm.
It took her three months to tell me that she had been raped that night. Her rapist didn't hold a knife to her throat, jump out of a dark alleyway, or slip her a roofie. Her rapist was her long-term boyfriend, with whom she'd been in a long-distance relationship for just over a year. He assaulted her in a stranger's bedroom while her peers, myself included, danced the night away just a few feet away.
I remember feeling overwhelmed when she first told me. I was sad for my friend, angry on her behalf, and disgusted by her rapist's actions. I also felt incredibly guilty because I had been there when it happened. I told myself that I should have stayed with her all night and that I should have seen the abuse - verbal and physical harassment- that he was inflicting on her before it turned sexual. But eventually, I realized that thinking about what could, should, or would've happened doesn't help anyone.
I watched my friend go through counseling, attend support groups, and still, she seemed to be hanging on by a thread. I couldn't begin to imagine what she was going through, and unfortunately, there was very little I could do to help her. So, I decided to get involved with the Sexual Assault Responders Group on campus, where I would actually be able to help another survivor.
My experience with the Sexual Assault Responders Group on campus was eye-opening. I mostly worked on the peer-to-peer hotline, where I spoke to survivors from all walks of life. I was confronted by the fact that rape is not a surreal unfortunate thing that happens to a certain type of person. I learned that it happens daily to mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and friends. I also learned that most survivors try to manage this burden on their own, afraid of judgment and repercussions and fearful of a he-said-she-said court battle.
I am proud to say that I used my time in college to not only earn an education, but also to advocate for survivors of sexual assault. I protested the university's cover-up of a gang rape that took place in one of the fraternity houses on campus. I spearheaded a 'no means no' campaign to raise awareness about consent on campus. I also led several fundraising campaigns for the Sexual Assault Responders Group that allowed us to pay for legal and mental health counselors for the survivors who came to us for support.
One of the things that this experience helped me realize is that sexual assault survivors often do not know where to turn when the system tries to tell them that it'd be best to just keep quiet and suffer in silence. My goal is to become one of those people that they can turn to for counsel and support. I believe that a law degree would give me the knowledge and tools that I need to advocate for survivors on a more significant scale.
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Law school personal statement example #13
I grew up in two different worlds. My world at home was full of people of various skin tones and accents. It was small, loud, and often chaotic in the best ways. I remember walking home and getting to experience music from across the world before I got to my apartment building. Loud reggaeton and afrobeat were always playing somewhere in the distance. Aunties and uncles usually stopped by unannounced and slipped money in your palm when they hugged you goodbye. And the smell of fried plantains was almost always present.
My other world was in school. It was a much quieter, more organized world with white hallways, navy blazers, and plaid skirts. It was full of people who did not look or sound like me and teachers who thought my hair was "interesting." It was also full of great books and engaging debates about everything from foreign policy to the influence of Jazz on hip hop.
I lived in these two worlds because I was born and raised in Xtown, but I went to a private school in a much richer neighborhood. I loved both of my worlds, but I hated that I had to act differently in both of them. When in school, I had to "code switch" to sound like I belonged there. When I was at home, all the people who shared the interests I was developing in school were either working or in college, so I had no one to talk to about them.
My words never felt more divided until I started considering a career in law. I remember telling one of my uncles that I wanted to become a lawyer and his response was, "So you want to become the man, huh?"
I wasn't surprised by his response, or at least I shouldn't have been. One of the things that I know for sure about the first world I lived in is that many of its inhabitants do not trust the law. I had believed this for so long simply because of the conversations that I would hear around me. However, in my second world, I was learning about all of these great freedoms and rights that the law was designed to give all Americans, and I wanted to bring those to my community.
I started working on this during the summer before my final year of high school. I got an internship with the legal aid office in my neighborhood and spent three months learning from people who, like me, had grown up in Xtown and wanted to help people. During my time in the legal aid office, I understood that the people in my community did not trust the law for two main reasons: 1. They did not understand a lot of it, and 2. It had been used against people like us many times.
I remember one particular case that Ms. Sharma - the lawyer I was learning from then and who still mentors me today - handled that summer. It was the case of a young mother who had received a notice of eviction from her landlord two days after refusing his advances. The man claimed that she violated her contract because she made homemade shea butter that she sold on Etsy. Ms. Sharma had me look through her rental agreement. After she confirmed that I was right in determining that the young mother had not violated her contract, she contacted the landlord to advise him that what he was doing was intimidation and sexual harassment.
My experiences in the legal aid office with Ms. Sharma opened my eyes to the disgusting behavior of human beings, but it also gave me the opportunity to see that the law was my opportunity to use what I learned in my second world to help the community that I was raised in. I returned to school with a new motivation that followed me to college. In addition to completing my bachelor's degree in sociology and African American studies, I spent most of my college years participating in legal internships and community outreach programs.
I believe that these experiences have given me the foundation I need to be a successful law student and, eventually, a lawyer who can truly be an advocate for members of his community.
Law school personal statement example #14
One day, my parents noticed that the other children in my age group had been speaking and communicating, but I had not. At first, they thought that my lack of speech was just me being shy, but eventually, they realized that on the rare occasions that I did speak, my words were practically incomprehensible. It wasn't long before they took me to a specialist who diagnosed me with a severe phonological disorder that hindered my ability to verbalize the basic sounds that make up words.
I started going to speech therapy when I was three years old. I saw numerous speech therapists, many of whom believed that I would never be able to communicate effectively with others. Lucky for me, my parents did not give up on me. I went to speech therapy thrice a week until the 8th grade, and I gave every single session my all. I also spent a lot of time in my room practicing my speech by myself. My efforts paid off, and even though I didn't become a chatterbox overnight, I could at least communicate effectively.
This was a short-lived victory, though. A year later, my speech impediment was back, and my ability to articulate words was once again severely limited. This complicated matters because it was my freshman year of high school, and I was in a brand-new school where I did not know anyone. Having been bullied in middle school, I knew first-hand how vicious kids can be, and I didn't want to be the butt of any more jokes, so I didn't try to speak at school. I knew that this was preventing me from making new friends or participating in class and that it was probably not helping my impediment, but I was not ready to face the fact that I needed to go back to speech therapy.
Eventually, I stopped resisting and went back to speech therapy. At the time, I saw it as accepting defeat, and even though my speech improved significantly, my self-confidence was lower than it had ever been. If you ask any of my high school classmates about me, they will likely tell you that I am very quiet or timid – both of which are not true, but they have no way of knowing otherwise. I barely spoke or interacted with my peers for most of high school. Instead, I focused on my studies and extracurricular activities that didn't involve much collaboration, like yearbook club and photography.
It was only when I was getting ready for college that I realized that I was only hurting myself with my behavior. I knew I needed to become more confident about my speech to make friends and be the student I wanted to be in college. So, I used the summer after my high school graduation to get some help. I started seeing a new speech therapist who was also trained as a counselor, and she helped me understand my impediment better. For example, I now know that I tend to stutter when stressed, but I also know that taking a few deep breaths helps me get back on track.
Using the confidence that I built in therapy that summer, I went to college with a new pep in my step. I pushed myself to meet new people, try new things, and join extracurricular organizations when I entered college. I applied to and was accepted into a competitive freshman leadership program called XYZ. Most of XYZ's other members were outgoing and highly involved in their high school communities. In other words, they were the complete opposite of me. I didn't let that intimidate me. Instead, I made a concerted effort to learn from them. If you ask any of my teammates or other classmates in college, they will tell you that I was an active participant in discussions during meetings and that I utilized my unique background to share a different perspective.
My experience with XYZ made it clear to me that my speech disorder wouldn't hold me back as long as I did not stand in my own way. Once I understood this, I kept pushing past the boundaries I had set for myself. I began taking on leadership roles in the program and looking for ways to contribute to my campus community outside of XYZ. For example, I started a community outreach initiative that connected school alumni willing to provide pro bono services to different members of the community who were in need.
Now, when I look back at my decision to go back to speech therapy, I see it as a victory. I understand that my speech impediment has shaped me in many ways, many of which are positive. My struggles have made me more compassionate. My inability to speak has made me a better listener. Not being able to ask questions or ask for help has made me a more independent critical thinker. I believe these skills will help me succeed in law school, and they are part of what motivates me to apply in the first place. Having struggled for so long to speak up for myself, I am ready and eager for the day when I can speak up for others who are temporarily unable to.
“ You talk too much; you should be a lawyer.”
I heard that sentence often while growing up because Congolese people always tell children who talk a lot that they should be lawyers. Sometimes I wonder if those comments did not subconsciously trigger my interest in politics and then the law. If they did, I am grateful for it. I am thankful for all the experiences that have brought me to this point where I am seeking an education that will allow me to speak for those who don’t always know how to, and, more importantly, those who are unable to.
For context, I am the child of Congolese immigrants, and my parents have a fascinating story that I will summarize for you:
A 14-year-old girl watches in confusion as a swarm of parents rush through the classroom, grabbing their children, and other students start running from the class. Soon she realizes that she and one other student are the only ones left, but when they both hear the first round of gunshots, no one has to tell them that it is time to run home. On the way home, she hears more gunshots and bombs. She fears for her survival and that of her family, and she starts to wonder what this war means for her and her family. Within a few months, her mother and father are selling everything they own so that they can board a plane to the US.
On the other side of the town, a 17-year-old boy is being forced to board a plane to the US because his mother, a member of parliament and the person who taught him about the importance of integrity, has been executed by the same group of soldiers who are taking over the region.
They met a year later, outside the principal’s office at a high school in XXY. They bonded over the many things they have in common and laughed at the fact that their paths probably never would have crossed in Bukavu. Fast forward to today, they have been married for almost two decades and have raised three children, including me.
Growing up in a Congolese household in the US presented was very interesting. On the one hand, I am very proud of the fact that I get to share my heritage with others. I speak French, Lingala, and Swahili – the main languages of Congo – fluently. I often dress in traditional clothing; I performed a traditional Congolese dance at my high school’s heritage night and even joined the Congolese Student Union at Almamatter University.
On the other hand, being Congolese presented its challenges growing up. At a young age, I looked, dressed, and sounded different from my classmates. Even though I was born in the US, I had picked up a lot of my parents’ accents, and kids loved to tease me about it. Ignorant comments and questions were not uncommon. “Do you speak African?” “You’re not American! How did you get here?” “You don’t look African” “My mom says I can’t play with you because your parents came here to steal our jobs”. These are some of the polite comments that I heard often, and they made me incredibly sad, especially when classmates I considered my friends made them.
My parents did not make assimilating any easier. My mother especially always feared I would lose my Congolese identity if they did not make it a point to remind me of it. She often said, “Just because you were born in America doesn’t mean that you are not Congolese anymore.” On one occasion, I argued that she always let me experience my Congolese side, but not my American side. That was the first time she told me I should be a lawyer.
Having few friends and getting teased in school helped me learn to be comfortable on my own. I Often found refuge and excitement in books. I even started blogging about the books I read and interacting with other readers online. As my following grew, I started to use my platform to raise awareness about issues that I am passionate about, like climate change, the war in Congo, and the homeless crisis here in XXY. I was able to start a fundraising campaign through my blog that raised just under $5000 for the United Way – a local charity that helps the homeless in my city.
This experience helped me understand that I could use my skills and the few tools at my disposal to help people, both here in America and one day, maybe even in Congo. I realized that I am lucky enough to have the option of expanding that skillset through education in order to do more for the community that welcomed my grandparents, uncles, aunties, and parents when they had nowhere else to go.
The journey was not easy because while I received immense support and love from my family for continuing my education, I had to teach myself how to prepare and apply to college. Once there I had to learn on my own what my professors expected of me, how to study, how to network, and so much more. I am grateful for those experiences too, because they taught me how to be resourceful, research thoroughly, listen carefully, and seek help when I need it.
All of these experiences have crafted me into who I am today, and I believe that with the right training, they will help me become a great attorney.
Law School Personal Statement Example #16
During my undergraduate studies, in the first two years, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do with my career. I enjoyed doing research, but I found that I became more interested in presenting the research than the process of contributing to it. I spoke to most of my science professors to ask if I could participate in their research. I worked in biology labs, chemistry labs, and in psychology classrooms working on a variety of projects that seemed meaningful and interesting. I gained new perspectives on study habits and mental health; the influence of music on the human mind; and applications of surface tension. I noticed that I was always taking the lead when we were presenting our findings to peers and research groups. I enjoyed yielding questions and addressing the captivating the audience with engaging gestures and speech. This was what led me to consider a career in law.
I always thought that I would become a scientist, so when I discovered that there were aspects of law that could be considered “scientific”, I was all ears. Still during my second year of undergraduate studies, I wanted to join an environmental awareness group, but noticed there weren’t any active. So, I took it upon myself to create my own. I wanted to do cleanup projects across the city, so I mapped out parks and areas that we could walk or drive to. I advertised my project to other students and eventually gained approximately fifteen students eager to help out. I was struck by the pollution in the water, the negligence of park maintenance. I drafted a letter to the municipal government and petitioned for a stricter environmental compliance approach. I wanted to advertise fines to hold polluters accountable, as there were hardly any to enforce the rules. A letter was returned to me stating that the government would consider my request. I felt a sense of gratification, of purpose; I discovered that I had the ability to enact change through policy. This drew me closer to the prospect of building a future in law, so I looked at other avenues to learn more.
I still wanted to find a way to bring together my love of science and discourse/communication. As a science student, I had the privilege of learning from professors who emphasized critical thinking; and they gave me a chance to learn that on my own. I took an internship as an environmental planner. There, I helped present project ideas to various groups, updating demographic/development information, and managing planning processes. I engaged in analytical thinking by looking at maps and demographic information to develop potential plans for land use. It was also the experience I was looking for in terms of a balance between science and oral communication. Using data analysis, I spoke to other planners and review boards to bring ideas together and execute a plan.
Through science, I learned how to channel my curiosity and logical thinking; as an advocate, I learned how to be creative and resourceful. Presenting research findings and being questioned in front of a group of qualified researchers, having to be sharp and ready for anything, taught me how to be more concise in speech. Developing an advocacy group dedicated to improving my community showed me what it lacked; it opened my eyes to the impact of initiative and focused collaboration. I was eager to begin another science project, this time with the environment in mind. It was titled “determining and defining the role of sociodemographic factors in air pollution health disparities”. I compiled and summarized relevant research and sent it over to a representative of the municipal government. In a couple of weeks, my request to increase advertising of fines in public areas was agreed to.
This Juris Doctor/Master in Environmental Studies program will allow me to continue deepening my knowledge of environmental law. With my goal of developing a career in environmental affairs, overseeing policies that influence land protection/use, I know that this program will give me the tools I need to succeed. With my experience working with large groups, I also believe I will fit into the larger class sizes at your institution. I understand the value of working together and how to engage in healthy discourse. With your Global Sustainability Certification, I will equip myself the expertise I need to produce meaningful change in environmental policy.
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Law School Personal Statement #17
Growing up in a poor neighborhood, what my friends used to call “the ghetto”, I was always looking for my way out. I tried running away, but I always ended up back home in that tiny complex, barely enough room to fit all my brothers and sisters with my parents. My dad was disabled and couldn’t work, and my mother was doing her best working full-time as a personal-support worker. There was nothing we could do to get out of our situation, or so it seemed. It wasn’t until years later when I started my undergraduate degree that ironically, after I found my way out, that I began looking for a way to come back. I wanted to be a voice for people living in those bleak conditions; hungry, without work. Helpless.
Getting my degree in social work was one of the best decisions of my life. It gave me the tools to lobby for solutions to problems in poor communities. I knew my neighborhood better than anyone because I grew up there. I had the lived experience. I started working with the local government to develop programs for my clients; the people living in those same neighborhoods. We worked to provide financial assistance, legal aid, housing, and medical treatment—all things sorely lacking. My proudest moment was securing the funds and arranging surgery for my father’s bad hip and knees. I’m currently working on a large project with one of the community legislators to lobby for a harm reduction model addressing addiction in our communities.
With five years of experience as a social worker, I knew it was time for a career change when I learned that I could have more influence on public opinion and legislative decisions as a social-security disability lawyer. I knew firsthand that people victimized from racism, poverty, and injury needed more help than they were currently allotted. I knew that, from becoming and advocate and communicating with influential members of the local government, that I could do more with a law degree helping people attain basic needs like disability benefits, which are often denied outright.
This desire to help people get the help they need from local programs and government resources brought me to Scarborough, a small town outside of Toronto. I was aware of some of the issues afflicting this community, since I’d handled a few clients from there as a children’s disability social worker. Addiction and homelessness were the two main ones. I worked with children with ADHD or other physical/mental disabilities impairing their ability to attend school and function normally. I helped many of them get an IEP with the details of the special services they require, long overdue. I made sure each child got the care they needed, including special attention in school. Also noticing that so many of these families lacked proper nutrition, I organized a report detailing this finding. In it, I argued that the community needed more funds targeting lowest income families. I spoke directly with a legislator, which eventually got the city on board with developing a program more specifically for the lowest income families with residents under 18.
My goal has always been to be a voice for the inaudible, the ignored, who’ve been victimized by inadequate oversight from the ground up. Many of these groups, as I’ve witnessed firsthand, don’t have the luxury of being their own advocates. They are too busy trying to support their families, to put food on the table for their children. I’ve realized that it isn’t quite enough to work directly with these families to connect them with resources and ensure they get the support they need. Sometimes the support simply doesn’t exist, or it isn’t good enough. This is why I’m motivated to add a law degree to my credentials so I can better serve these people and communities. As a future social-security disability lawyer, I want to work with local governments to assist clients in navigating an assistance system and improving it as much as possible. This program will give me the access to a learning environment in which I can thrive and develop as an advocate.
Law School Personal Statement #18
“You’re worthy and loved”, I said to a twelve-year-old boy, Connor, whom I was supervising and spending time with during the Big Brother program at which we met. A few tears touched my shoulder as I pulled him into me, comforting him. He was a foster child. He didn’t know his parents and never stayed in one place longer than a few months; a year if he was lucky. I joined the program not expecting much. I was doing it for extra credit, because I wanted to give back to the community somehow and I thought it would be interesting to meet people. He confided in me; he told me that his foster parents often yelled at each other, and him. He told me he needed to escape. I called Child Protective Services and after a thorough investigation, they determined that Connor’s foster parents weren’t fit for fostering. He was moved, yet again, to a different home.
I wrote an op-ed detailing my experience as a Big Brother. I kept names anonymous. I wanted people to know how hard it was for children in the welfare system. Many of them, like Connor, were trapped in a perpetual cycle of re-homing, neglect, and even abuse. He and other children deserve stability and unconditional love. That should go without saying. I sent the op-ed to a local magazine and had it published. In it, I described not only the experience of one unfortunate kid, but many others as well who saw their own stories being told through Connor. I joined a non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to quality education for young people. I started learning about disparities in access; students excluded by racial or financial barriers. I was learning, one step at a time, how powerful words can be.
With the non-profit organization, I reached out to a few public schools in the area to represent some of our main concerns with quality of education disparities. Our goal was to bring resources together and promote the rights of children in education. We emphasized that collaboration between welfare agencies and schools was critical for education stability. Together, we created a report of recommendations to facilitate this collaboration. We outlined a variety of provisions, including more mechanisms for child participation, better recruitment of social service workers in schools, risk management and identification strategies, and better support for students with child protection concerns.
The highlight of that experience was talking to an assembly of parents and school faculty to present our findings and recommendations. The title of the presentation was “The Power of Words”. I opened with the story I wrote about in the op-ed. I wanted to emphasize that children are individuals; those trapped in the welfare system are not a monolith. They each have unique experiences, needs, and desires they want to fulfill in life. But our tools to help them can be improved, more individualized. I spoke about improving the quality of residential care for children and the need to promote their long-term development into further education and employment. Finally, I presented a list of tools we created to help support a more financially sustainable and effective child welfare system. The talk was received with applause and a tenuous commitment from a few influential members of the crowd. It was a start.
Although I lost contact with Connor, I think about him almost every day. I can only hope that the programs we worked on to improve were helping him, wherever he was. I want to continue to work on the ground level of child welfare amelioration, but I realize I will need an education in law to become a more effective advocate for this cause. There are still many problems in the child welfare system that will need to be addressed: limited privacy/anonymity for children, service frameworks that don’t address racism adequately, limited transportation in remote communities, and many more. I’ve gained valuable experience working with the community and learning about what the welfare system lacks and does well. I’m ready to take the next step for myself, my community, and those beyond it.
Assuredly, but this length varies from school to school. As with all important details of your law school application, thoroughly research your specific schools’ requirements and guidelines before both writing and editing your personal statement to ensure it fits their specifics. The average length is about 2 pages, but don’t bother drafting your statement until you have specific numbers from your schools of choice. It’s also a good idea to avoid hitting the maximum length unless absolutely necessary. Be concise, keep economy of language in mind, and remain direct, without rambling or exhaustive over-explanation of your ideas or experiences.
You should keep any words that aren’t your own to a minimum. Admissions committees don’t want to read a citation-heavy academic paper, nor do they respond well to overused famous quotes as themes in personal statements. If you absolutely must include a quote from elsewhere, be sure to clearly indicate your quote’s source. But in general, it’s best to keep the personal statement restricted to your own words and thoughts. They’re evaluating you, not Plato! It’s a personal statement. Give them an engaging narrative in your own voice.
Admissions committees will already have a strong sense of your academic performance through your transcripts and test scores, so discussing these in your personal statement is generally best avoided. You can contextualize these things, though—if you have an illuminating or meaningful story about how you came to receive an award, or how you enjoyed or learned from the work that won you the award, then consider discussing it. Overall though, it’s best to let admissions committees evaluate your academic qualifications and accomplishments from your transcripts and official documents, and give them something new in the personal statement.
When you first sit down to begin, cast a wide net. Consider all the many influences and experiences that have led you to where you are. You’ll eventually (through editing and rewriting) explain how these shape your relationship to a career in law, but one of the best things you can give yourself during the initial drafting phase is a vast collection of observations and potential points for development. As the New England School of Law points out in their, “just write!” Let the initial draft be as messy as it needs to be, and refine it from there. It’s a lot easier to condense and sharpen a big draft than it is to try to tensely craft a perfect personal statement from nothing.
Incredibly important, as should be clear by now! Unlike other specialties, law schools don’t usually conduct interviews with applicants, so your personal statement is in effect your one opportunity to speak with the admissions committee directly. Don’t let that gravity overwhelm you when you write, but keep it in mind as you edit and dedicate time to improving your initial drafts. Be mindful of your audience as you speak with them, and treat writing your personal statement as a kind of initial address in what, hopefully, will eventually turn into an ongoing dialogue.
There are a variety of factors that can make or break a law school personal statement. You should aim to achieve at least a few of the following: a strong opening hook; a compelling personal narrative; your skills and competencies related to law; meaningful experiences; why you’re the right fit for the school and program.
Often, they do. It’s best for you to go to the schools you’re interesting in applying to so you can find out if they have any specific formatting or content requirements. For example, if you wanted to look at NYU law or Osgoode Hall Law School , you would find their admissions requirements pages and look for information on the personal statement.
There are lots of reasons why a personal statement might not work. Usually, applicants who don’t get accepted didn’t come up with a good strategy for this essay. Remember, you need to target the specific school and program. Other reasons are that the applicant doesn’t plan or proofread their essay. Both are essential for submitting materials that convince the admissions committee that you’re a strong candidate. You can always use law school admissions consulting application review to help you develop your strategy and make your essay stand out.
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How long should a Personal Statement be? Is there any rule on that?
BeMo Academic Consulting
Hello V! Thanks for your question. Some schools will gave very specific word limits, while some will not. If you do not have a limit indicated, try to stick to no more than a page, 600-800 words.
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[2024] 4 Law School Personal Statement Examples from Top Programs
by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad
In personal statement samples by field.
In this article, I will discuss 4 law school personal statement samples. These statements have been written by successful applicants who gained admission to prestigious US Law schools like Yale, Harvard, and Stanford. The purpose of these examples is to demonstrate how prospective applicants like yourself can artfully integrate their passion, skills, and pertinent experiences into a captivating narrative.
* To further guide you on your law school application journey, I will not only present these personal statement samples but will also provide my expert review after each one. This includes an analytical feedback, a graded evaluation, and a detailed discussion of any identified weaknesses and strengths within the personal statement. Through this comprehensive analysis, I aim to provide a clearer understanding of what makes a compelling law school personal statement.
In the process of composing these personal statements, the applicants have drawn upon valuable insights from several of my previous writings on the subject. Furthermore, you are encouraged to utilize my prior works as a resource to aid you in crafting your own personal statement.
In those posts I’ve discussed the art of constructing a captivating personal statement , and I’ve highlighted the pitfalls to avoid to ensure your law school essay leaves a positive impression.
I’ve also shared valuable tips on structuring your personal statement for clarity and readability, not to mention how to create a powerful opening that grabs attention from the start. And let’s not forget about maintaining brevity while effectively telling your story, as well as offering a vast range of personal statement examples from different fields for reference.
And yes, do not forget to explore my 8-point framework that anyone can use to self-evaluate their law school personal statement. Complementing this, I’ve also created a 7-point guide to help you steer clear of potential traps and missteps in your personal statement.
I encourage you to explore these topics in depth, as they will be useful while we explore the sample personal statement for law schools.
In this Article
1) Research the Law School
2) outline your law school personal statement, 3) write a compelling introduction, 4) showcase your achievements and interests in law, 5) articulate your motivations for pursuing law, 6) highlight unique qualities for the legal field, 7) addressing potential weaknesses or gaps, 8) craft a persuasive conclusion, my in-depth feedback on sample 1, my in-depth feedback on sample 2, my in-depth feedback on sample 3, my in-depth feedback on sample 4, why do law schools require a personal statement, does every law school require a personal statement, what should you avoid in a law school personal statement, can i use the same personal statement for all law schools, should i put my name on my law school personal statement, should you brainstorm your law school personal statement, how to write a personal statement for law school.
Writing a personal statement for law school requires thorough research, a well-structured outline, and a captivating introduction. The following steps will guide you in crafting a coherent and compelling narrative that effectively showcases your journey and aspirations in the field of law. For a more detailed post, follow this ultimate guide on how to write a personal statement .
Begin by immersing yourself in extensive research about the law school you are applying to. Explore the institution’s website, paying close attention to its mission, curriculum, faculty expertise, and any unique offerings such as clinical programs or specialized courses. Familiarize yourself with the admission requirements and tailor your personal statement to highlight relevant qualifications.
Immerse yourself in the law school’s culture and gain insights from faculty members, current students, or alumni. Attend informational sessions or open houses to gather additional details. Reflect on how the law school aligns with your career goals in the legal field and incorporate this understanding into your personal statement, showcasing your dedication and suitability.
Before delving into writing your personal statement, create a comprehensive outline of its content. Begin with a captivating introduction , which could include a compelling anecdote, an impactful quote, or a statement that highlights your passion for the law.
For example: “Ever since I witnessed the transformative power of the law in securing justice for the vulnerable, I have been driven to pursue a legal career that upholds the principles of equity and fairness.”
Next, outline your academic achievements and relevant experiences, such as internships, research projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to the field of law. Emphasize the skills you have developed and the honors you have received.
Articulate your motivations for pursuing a legal education, sharing your aspirations and long-term goals. Highlight unique strengths, such as critical thinking, analytical abilities, or effective communication skills. If necessary, address any potential concerns or gaps in your application, explaining the situation and showcasing your ability to overcome challenges.
Conclude by reiterating your passion and qualifications for the legal profession and express your enthusiasm for joining the law school. This structured approach will ensure a coherent and persuasive personal statement.
Begin your personal statement with a captivating introduction that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Consider starting with an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking quote, or a personal experience that sparked your interest in the law.
For instance: “In a world where justice often hangs in the balance, I recall the moment I witnessed a courtroom’s transformative power. The eloquence of the attorneys, the weight of their arguments, and the profound impact on the lives of those involved compelled me to pursue a legal career.”
Briefly introduce the central theme of your personal statement, whether it’s your passion for advocating for others, your commitment to upholding justice, or your desire to make a positive impact through the law. A compelling introduction sets the tone for the rest of your personal statement.
In your personal statement, focus on highlighting your academic and professional accomplishments that showcase your preparedness for law school. Discuss relevant internships, research projects, or academic achievements that demonstrate your commitment to the field.
For example: “During my internship at XYZ Law Firm, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced attorneys, analyzing complex legal cases and conducting in-depth legal research. This experience solidified my passion for legal advocacy and honed my ability to navigate intricate legal frameworks.”
Illustrate key achievements, such as publications, successful legal cases, or leadership roles within legal organizations. Explain how these experiences have shaped your interest in law and contributed to your growth and expertise in the field.
Clearly articulate your motivations for pursuing a legal education. Share personal experiences, challenges, or encounters that have fueled your desire to make a difference through the law.
For example: “Growing up in a community where access to justice was limited, I witnessed firsthand the disparities in legal representation. These experiences instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to advocate for those who have been marginalized by the legal system.”
Outline your career goals and aspirations, illustrating how obtaining a legal education aligns with your vision. Discuss how the law school’s program, faculty, and resources will contribute to your growth and help you achieve your professional objectives.
Highlight personal qualities and attributes that make you well-suited for a legal career. Emphasize traits such as critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, research skills, or effective communication.
For instance: “My ability to analyze complex legal issues, combined with my unwavering commitment to pursuing justice, has enabled me to approach legal challenges with both empathy and determination.
Provide concrete examples that demonstrate how these qualities have positively impacted your academic or professional experiences. Showcase how these qualities align with the values and expectations of the law school, presenting a strong case for your fit within the legal community.
Address any weaknesses or gaps in your application candidly. If you encountered obstacles or faced academic challenges, briefly mention them, focusing on what you have learned and how you have grown as a result.
Demonstrate resilience and determination by highlighting subsequent achievements or steps you have taken to overcome difficulties. Showcase how these experiences have strengthened your commitment and prepared you for the rigors of law school.
Your conclusion should effectively summarize the key points of your personal statement. Recap your passion for the law, the skills you have acquired, and your future ambitions within the legal field.
For example: “Driven by an unwavering commitment to justice and armed with a solid foundation in legal research and advocacy, I am ready to embark on this transformative journey in law school.”
Express your enthusiasm for contributing to the legal profession, emphasizing how your unique perspective and experiences will enrich the law school community. Conclude with a confident and concise statement that demonstrates your readiness to excel in their program and make a meaningful impact in the field of law.
Sample 1: NYU, UCLA, and Duke
Variations of this personal statement got accepted at nyu, ucla, and duke..
One day, I decided to quit home, leave my parents behind and move to a small rural town called Leiah after being inconsiderately and incessantly forced to marry a cousin. It was a bold step, but I did not want to be like other women in my country who do not fight for their rights. While living in solicitude in Leiah, I stumbled upon a poor old man sitting beside a piece of furniture that would define his existence. Lying limply on a street corner, the old man had only one helping hand – the crippled furniture.
Coming from a privileged background, I saw for the first time the disparity between the haves and have-nots. Nothing, however, seemed more unlikely when I first arrived. Constrained by their poverty, these rural people took what jobs they could find, working for long hours in the field and finally retrieving their broken houses and furniture for respite. They were outrageously overworked and underpaid but never brought any bitterness home. At that time, I realized how blessed I was, and they were not.
Inspired by these experiences, I decided to use my education and connections to bring change to the lives of these people of Leiah. By collaborating with an NGO for money and resources, I started giving out basic amenities and finances to set up cheap livable houses for these people. I didn’t stop there – I joined a maternity home in Leiah as a public liaison officer and helped the clinic with legal and administrative issues. By understanding the numerous Federal and State laws regarding Health Care, I better equipped myself at work. After tireless efforts, I handled several cases of women and children who suffered abuse, violence, and neglect.
I wanted to discuss these experiences because I believe that, as an ever-present factor during many of these four formative years, these incidents played a significant role in shaping the adult I have become. Ten years ago, I would never have foreseen that I could become a powerful vehicle for others’ growth by living in a village. The experience has helped me develop a heightened sensitivity for those who have struggled to fit into our society. As a result, I decided to move back to the city after several years and pursue further education in law and political science. During these academic years, I was actively involved with various community service projects and as an investigator in law firms, allowing me to interact with troubled and disadvantaged youth and the mentally disabled.
I have long been interested in law as an academic discipline, and working in rural areas has confirmed that my academic interests would extend to the real-world application of legal principles. To this end, I purposefully chose jobs that provided very distinct perspectives on law practice. As a legal assistant, I became acquainted with both the advantages and disadvantages of private practice. As a member of the human rights commission, I investigated how non-profits worked at a larger scale to improve the lives of the underprivileged. Moreover, helping in DIL (development in literacy) has offered me a glimpse of how the law may be used constructively in the public sector. I am currently working as a member of the Michigan chapter on fundraising that will take place next year in LA. All these positions have equally impressed upon me the unique potential of the law to make a direct, positive impact on people’s lives.
Working as a legal consultant, I was initially turned off by the formal language, which permeated all writing and discourse (“Aforementioned • legalese had heretofore proven incomprehensible”). As one unfamiliar with the jargon, I found the law to be pretentious and distant. Gradually, however, I began to sort out the shades of difference between a “motion in limine” and a “56(f) motion.” Finally, I understood the law as a vast set of rules which could, with intelligence and creativity, genuinely be used on behalf of values such as fairness and justice.
In addition to my primary assignment on an antitrust case, some exposure to pro bono work further convinced me that law has a vital role in our society. I am also avidly involved in extra-curricular activities. For example, I went to India to attend my father’s book launch (a writer) organized by Ghalib Council, Delhi. By collaborating and bonding with the people of India, I could impart brotherhood and literacy since I found Indian people more educated than us. My society needs education and health, and I want to work in these areas when I return.
As with my experience at a law firm, I soon realized the practical application of the laws written here. Unlike most of the public, who see only the final version of a bill, being part of the health legislative process has forced me to examine all sides of any given issue. Although politics can make this process agonizingly slow and inefficient, my work here has given me a greater appreciation for how laws affect our constituents back home.
Given my skills, I am convinced that health law presents the single greatest chance for me to make a difference, both in the lives of individuals and in terms of influencing the broader fabric of society. Moreover, I am confident that my insistence on looking beyond those first impressions has provided me with an exciting opportunity to apply and study at UCLA Law.
The woman in my society is an artisan and a tradesperson. She’s an economist and a doctor. She is also a fisherwoman and a craftsperson. She’s a mentor, nurturer, parliamentarian, and cultivator. She’s brimming with life and capability, but she waits for what justly belongs to her: the right to a superior life.
Here is a brief review and rating of this personal statement based on different aspects:
- Hook and Introduction (4.5/5): Your introduction is powerful and immediately hooks the reader. It shows strength, courage, and determination.
- Background and Motivation (4.5/5): You’ve done a great job of illustrating your background and motivation, which stem from your experiences in Leiah. You could add more about how these experiences triggered your interest in law.
- Relevance and Competency (4/5): You have demonstrated a clear path from your experiences to your interest in law, but a more explicit discussion about the legal skills you have developed and how you applied them would make this section stronger.
- Passion and Personal Drive (5/5): Your passion for law, social justice, and helping others is palpable and will make a strong impression on the admission committee.
- Program Fit and Future Goals (3/5): Your statement is currently lacking in specific references to the law school you’re applying to, making it difficult to assess fit. Discussing how the program aligns with your career goals and what aspects of the program particularly attract you would strengthen your application.
- Conclusion (4/5): Your conclusion is effective in tying together your experiences and your desire to study law. However, a clearer expression of your readiness for law school and how you plan to contribute to the law school community would enhance this section.
Now, let’s delve deeper into each part of your statement:
- Introduction: Your introduction is powerful and impactful. The raw honesty about your decision to leave home and confront societal norms hooks the reader immediately. It tells us you are strong, independent, and willing to make hard choices. One suggestion would be to more directly link this bold decision to your interest in law—did it spark a desire for justice, or a passion for advocating for others who are oppressed?
- Background and Challenges: You effectively depict the stark contrast between your privileged upbringing and the poverty-stricken lives of the people in Leiah. Your empathy is palpable, and it showcases your character and capacity for understanding others’ situations. To provide more context, you could elaborate on the societal and cultural norms that were challenged by your experiences in Leiah and how these experiences shaped your view of law and justice.
- Transferable Skills: You talk about your role as a public liaison officer and how it familiarized you with Federal and State healthcare laws. This shows you’ve already been using legal skills in a practical environment, a strong point in your favor. Perhaps expand on the specific skills or competencies you gained during this period, such as negotiation, critical thinking, or public speaking, and how they will be beneficial in a law school environment.
- Passion and Goals: Your experiences, such as working with NGOs and maternity homes, indicate a strong passion for social justice. The goal of using law to improve the lives of the underprivileged is noble and will resonate with law schools. It might be beneficial to discuss specific areas of law you are interested in (e.g., human rights, public interest law) and how you see yourself contributing in these areas in the future.
- Relevant Experiences: Your varied experiences, from community service to law firm investigation work, provide you with a wealth of practical experiences, all very relevant to your law school journey. Perhaps you could add more detail about how these experiences solidified your desire to study law and how they shaped your perspective on legal practice.
- Specific Interest in the School: The personal statement does not mention a specific law school or its program. Including a paragraph detailing why you are interested in the specific school you are applying to, and how its program aligns with your career goals, could strengthen your application. Discuss the school’s specific courses, faculty, or values that attract you.
- Conclusion: While your conclusion effectively ties together your experiences and future law goals, it could be more direct in expressing your readiness to face the challenges of law school and contribute to the school community.
Your personal statement is already compelling, but adding more context to your experiences and making clear links between your past, present, and future in the context of law could further enhance it. Remember, specificity is key—whether it’s about the skills you’ve gained, the experiences that shaped your interest in law, or the specific school you’re applying to.
Sample 2: Northwestern, Vanderbilt, and UC Berkeley
Variations of this personal statement got accepted at northwestern, vanderbilt, and uc berkeley..
Unlike many, my passion for acquiring a law degree is neither a childhood fantasy of fighting a case in a courtroom nor a preconceived notion of myself as a lawyer. Instead, I recognize that a law degree would enable me to advance my career as a taxation lawyer.
I had to skip schooling during 4th and 5th grade and instead studied at home. This was due to the financial difficulties stemming from my mother’s cancer treatment, which put a significant financial burden on us. Additionally, as a female from an agricultural and rural family, I faced family pressure to attend a public school instead of a private one. But I did not succumb to these pressures. Instead, I persevered in studying and investing in getting myself private education through partial financial support from my older brother and by working part-time as a writer and content curator. Six months before my high-school graduation, my mother succumbed to her illness and passed away. She spent the last eight years of her life bedridden. The loss was immeasurable, but life had to move on.
I first set my sights on becoming a lawyer when I interned at a law firm during the summer break following my high school graduation. Throughout this internship, I annoyed my supervisors by writing long-winded legal documents even when they asked for a few sentences – this was because of the writing habits I had developed as a content writer. With time, I started to write better legal reports, but my attention was increasingly turned toward tax law. With the guidance and counseling of my supervisors, I applied to an undergrad law program. I spent the next several years understanding the Federal Reserve’s proposed Income Tax Ordinance, including exemptions from income tax and withholding tax.
Throughout this time, I continued to work part-time with various firms, hospitals, and non-profits as a volunteer, legal advisor, and editor. Upon graduation, I applied for the position of legal advisor at the Monthly Atlantic. My current job entails researching and reporting for the newspaper on appropriations bills and export legislation. I also write daily summaries of major contracts awarded by the Federal Government. I am also primarily responsible for supporting discrete legal issues by advising the organization, drafting undertakings, and structuring remedies for the relevant issues.
I am excited but also apprehensive as I try to explain legal jargon to an informed general audience, some of whom may know more about these policies than I do. For example, recently, I had a significant challenge in understanding and decoding the budget proposals of the Federal Reserve, by section 42 of the MOPA Act, 1956 (the Act), in which the entire income of the Federal Reserve and its subsidiaries is remitted to the federal government. After thoroughly going through the provisions, I learned there are still some provisions in the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, Sales Tax Act 1990, and Federal Excise Act 2005, attracting the application of taxes and duties.
Too often, I need more legal knowledge to fully grasp bills that control how companies do business overseas, the limits to which government agencies can go to collect covert intelligence, or the amount of funding an agency can receive in a given time. On the one hand, these limitations have yet to do much to impair me in my current position. I am called to turn out several short stories daily on various topics without going into significant detail. However, I would like to advance to more complex and challenging assignments one day. I fear I will be able to do so if I acquire more expertise than I can within the confines of my deadline-driven job. It is a belief shared by several of my colleagues and many of the senior legal consultants at the newspaper that those who hold advanced degrees in law, business, and related disciplines are at an edge. A law degree would put me in a better position to join their ranks, mainly if I could attend school while continuing to work as a legal advisor in taxation-related instances.
Given my circumstances and interests, a graduate degree in taxation law from UC Berkeley is my ideal choice. In addition, I have an acquaintance that is currently enrolled at Berkeley Law school. His generous feedback has convinced me that this program would also fit my needs considering its flexible schedule and emphasis on tax law.
- Hook and Introduction (5/5): The hook and introduction effectively capture the reader’s attention and provide a clear understanding of your unique motivation for pursuing a law degree. The personal anecdote about your internship and your writing habits adds interest to the narrative and sets the stage for the rest of the personal statement.
- Background and Motivation (4.5/5): The background section effectively outlines the challenges you faced during your education and personal life, showcasing your resilience and determination. It helps the reader understand the context in which your passion for law developed. The motivation behind your interest in taxation law is well-explained, highlighting how your experiences and skills have guided you towards this specific field.
- Relevance and Competency (4/5): You effectively demonstrate your competence by discussing your experiences as a legal advisor, writer, and content curator. The mention of your work with firms, hospitals, and non-profits further strengthens your case. However, it would be beneficial to provide more specific examples or achievements that highlight your skills and expertise in taxation law.
- Passion and Personal Drive (4.5/5): Your passion for taxation law shines through in your personal statement. The enthusiasm you express for writing legal reports and your desire to tackle more complex assignments demonstrate your genuine interest in the field. The mention of your colleagues and senior legal consultants’ belief in the value of advanced degrees in law further emphasizes your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
- Program Fit and Future Goals (3/5): While you express your interest in pursuing a graduate degree in taxation law from UC Berkeley, the personal statement lacks specific details about why this program is a perfect fit for your goals. Providing more information about the program’s strengths and how they align with your aspirations would strengthen this section.
- Conclusion (4/5): The conclusion effectively wraps up your personal statement and reinforces your commitment to pursuing a law degree. It restates your interest in UC Berkeley and highlights the feedback you received from an acquaintance at the institution. However, it could be enhanced by briefly summarizing your key strengths and accomplishments and how they will contribute to your success in the program.
- Introduction: The introduction of the personal statement effectively hooks the reader by highlighting your unique motivation for pursuing a law degree with a focus on taxation law. The mention of it not being a childhood fantasy and instead recognizing the degree as a means to advance your career sets the tone for the rest of the statement.
- Background and Challenges: The section detailing your background and the challenges you faced is compelling. The explanation of having to skip schooling due to financial difficulties resulting from your mother’s cancer treatment adds depth to your personal story. It showcases your resilience in overcoming obstacles and your determination to pursue education despite the circumstances. The mention of facing family pressure to attend a public school instead of a private one further emphasizes your determination and ability to make your own choices.
- Transferable Skills: While you mention working part-time as a writer and content curator, the transferable skills gained from this experience could be further elaborated upon. Explaining how your writing skills, attention to detail, and ability to analyze information have prepared you for the demands of the legal field would strengthen this section.
- Passion and Goals: Your passion for law and taxation law is effectively conveyed throughout the personal statement. The explanation of your interest developing during your internship at a law firm, where you consistently wrote legal documents, showcases your dedication and enthusiasm. The mention of your desire to tackle more complex assignments and the belief shared by colleagues and senior legal consultants that advanced degrees are advantageous demonstrate your long-term goals and commitment to professional growth.
- Relevant Experiences: The inclusion of your various volunteer and advisory roles, as well as your current position as a legal advisor at the Monthly Atlantic, highlights your practical experience in the field. However, providing more specific examples or accomplishments from these experiences would enhance this section and further illustrate your competence and expertise.
- Specific Interest in the School: While you express an interest in pursuing a graduate degree in taxation law from UC Berkeley, the personal statement lacks specific details about why this program is a perfect fit for your goals. Adding more information about the program’s strengths, faculty, or specific courses that align with your interests would strengthen this section.
- Conclusion: The conclusion effectively wraps up the personal statement by restating your commitment to pursuing a law degree and emphasizing your interest in UC Berkeley. However, it could be strengthened by summarizing your key strengths, experiences, and goals and how they align with the school’s offerings.
Overall, your personal statement effectively conveys your passion for taxation law, your determination to overcome challenges, and your commitment to professional growth. Strengthening the sections on transferable skills, providing more specific examples of relevant experiences, and including more specific details about the school’s fit would enhance the overall impact of the statement.
Sample 3: Georgetown
Variations of this personal statement got accepted at georgetown..
My desire to apply to law school is not rooted in a childhood fantasy of arguing a case before a packed courtroom. I have never seen myself as a trial attorney, ala Perry Mason or Nora Lewin on Law & Order. However, a legal education would enable me to advance my career as a writer and analyst specializing in national security and global trade issues.
I first set my sights on becoming a writer when I learned my letters. But, of course, mastering the ABCs may have been a long way from winning the Pulitzer. Nevertheless, this minor detail did not prevent me from completing three “novels” and my version of Genesis before the age of seven. Throughout elementary and junior high school, I annoyed my teachers by writing 10-page themes whenever they asked for a few sentences. Later, as a high school and college student, I continued writing, though my attention was increasingly turned toward other subjects. Ultimately, one of my professors directed me on a path that would combine my background in writing with government and policymaking. With her help, I secured an internship with a government contractor. As a result, I spent the spring and summer writing copy for websites that the company managed for the government while taking additional classes at university.
In February, I accepted a full-time job as a researcher at Washington Post, where I am now an assistant editor. My current job entails researching and reporting on defense appropriations bills and export legislation, as well as writing daily summaries of major contracts awarded by the Department of Defense and other defense ministries worldwide. With enthusiasm but some trepidation, I attempt to decode pages of legal jargon for an educated lay readership, many of whom I suspect know more than I about such policies. But, too often, I lack the legal knowledge to fully grasp bills that control how companies do business overseas, the limits to which government agencies can go to collect covert intelligence, or the amount of funding an agency can receive in a given length of time.
On the one hand, these limitations have yet to do much to impair me in my current position. I am called to turn out several short stories daily on various topics without going into significant detail. However, I would like to advance to more difficult reporting assignments one day. I fear I will be able to do so if I acquire more expertise than I can within the confines of my deadline-driven job. I also would like to It is a belief shared by several of my colleagues, as well as many of the senior writers and editors at my company who hold advanced degrees in law, business, and related disciplines. A law degree would put me in a better position to join their ranks, mainly if I could attend school while continuing to work as a journalist.
Given my circumstances and interests, Georgetown University Law Center, with its top-ranked intellectual property and international law programs, is my ideal choice. In addition, I have a colleague that is currently enrolled in the Georgetown evening law program. His generous feedback has convinced me that this program would also fit my needs considering its flexible schedule and emphasis on legal writing.
Your personal statement presents a compelling narrative that effectively communicates your passion for writing, your current profession, and your interest in furthering your education in law to augment your skills and understanding. Here are a few suggestions to improve it further:
- Specifics: While you mention you would like to join the ranks of your colleagues who hold advanced degrees in law and related disciplines, it would be beneficial to include specific examples of how having a law degree could have or will benefit you in your current role.
- Motivation: You’ve done a great job discussing your professional path and how you hope a legal education will benefit your career. Still, it would help if you were to discuss any personal reasons or experiences that have led you to want to study law. Personal narratives often make an applicant more relatable and can help the reader understand your motivation better.
- Intention: You may want to further discuss how you plan to apply your law degree to your current career or future aspirations.
- Completion: Towards the end, it seems there is a sentence that is not completed: “I also would like to It is a belief shared by several of my colleagues…”. You might want to revise this sentence to make your statement clearer.
- Why Georgetown: While you have discussed that Georgetown University Law Center is your top choice, consider elaborating on why Georgetown, in particular, is the perfect fit for your career goals, apart from its flexible schedule and the fact that your colleague is enrolled there. You could mention specific courses, professors, or the university’s ethos, for example.
Your personal statement is already quite strong, and these suggestions are only meant to fine-tune your narrative further.
Sample 4: Harvard Law
Variations of this llm personal statement got accepted at university of pennsylvania, oxford university, and harvard law school..
I grew up in a middle-class family in Malaysia, where discipline and responsible behavior were the only doctrines taught. At school, I maintained 100% attendance without exception – a feat that my parents and I take pride in. My parents’ utmost involvement throughout my growing years always made me outshine my peers. Though my school grades were average, I represented my school in many activities ranging from debates and dramatics to being a soccer team captain for the entire house.
I have always had complete freedom from my parents until I had to choose a career. A STEM career was my parents’ priority, but for the first time, I differed from my family and chose Social Sciences. I was told that career prospects were bleak and that I was making the wrong decision, but I persisted. While majoring in social sciences, I met a mentor, Dr. Anonymous, a top economist. He challenged me intellectually, which helped me become a better thinker.
Subsequently, I secured the second position in college. My life turned around as people started to value my opinions, and at that time, I discovered my passion, “to speak.” I was chosen as the Coordinator for a Student Leadership Program, where I was mainly responsible for teaching empathy to hundreds of students from elite schools.
At the same time, at age 17, I met the chief editor of the New York Times, who invited me to host the “Youth Forum,” a program to highlight young people’s perspectives on existing social issues. With 55 episodes spanning over 2.5 years, I questioned youth’s role in our turbulent political, social, and economic system. The show gained popularity and performed exceptionally on TRP scores, with viewership growing to over 500,000.
At college, I met another mentor, Justice Anonymous of the Federal Court of Malaysia, who allowed me to attend court sessions as an observer of cross-questioning sessions. In addition, I socialized with lawyers at many forums, including the Court’s Cafeteria, where all appreciated my love for the field. In my 5th semester, I took a course on U.K. Constitutional Law, where I learned about the history of the U.K. Constitution. In the session on “Parliamentary Sovereignty” and “Britain’s relationship with the European Union,” the professor gave me new energy to research further about the steps in forming its Constitution. The more I read, the more I appreciated the perseverance of the founding fathers and the strong foundation England and Wales is built on.
A few years back, I attended the Oxford University Experience-Summer Course for Teens, Summerfuel. The program helped me with experiential learning about what college life is like. During my stay, I had plenty of opportunities to experience English life outside the classroom. Here, in a session, I narrated the first paragraph of the declaration of independence and asked, “whether all men are equal?”. To this, the professor appreciated my enthusiasm for constitutional law.
On my return to Malaysia, I had new energy to question the existing constitutional norms of Malaysia and kept comparing the constitutions of both countries and analyzing the factors that led to present-day turbulence in Malaysia. It is evident through the literature and historical precedence that the Constitution of Malaysia has been used maliciously to favor the powermongers. This indicates the lack of sincerity and dedication of the leaders who have formed this country.
Sadly, very few competent constitutional lawyers exist in the country that also happened to have played in the hands of powerful politicians who manipulated the Constitution to favor their vested interests. Therefore, I decided to take a career in this area as I aspire to be one of the few upright constitutional lawyers. I want to be amongst those who have shaped law and politics in Malaysia. Not amongst those who played in the hands of the powerful.
I want to choose Oxford Law for several reasons. Its tradition for excellence, the unique constitutional law curriculum, the summer program, and the excellent opportunity to meet and network with individuals from different parts of the world. I believe that Oxford law school’s vibrant and diverse community actively affirms my personality of maintaining lifelong relations. These different connections serve as a general resource for the campus community and a source of empowerment for students like me. The diverse setting at Oxford will enable me to investigate and engage in current issues and more profound societal questions. As a result, I will be able to discover how I can positively impact the world around me.
I am looking for an environment that promotes lively debates to complement my active speaking and reasoning traits. I can access well-known professors and discuss legal issues with exceptional young lawyers from more than 35 countries. Oxford offers a culture of collegiality and collaboration, where international students feel comfortable. At Oxford, professors like Dr. Anonymous, who specialize in constitutional law, and courses such as Democracy, Judicial Law-Making, & Constitutional Law can help nurture my skills and move forward in my career.
Professor Dr. Anonymous, a former Lord Justice in Wales, will teach me the value of strategy in litigation. Next, professor Dr. Anonymous and Dr. Anonymous will introduce me to the fabulous world of copyright. Finally, professor Dr. Anonymous will show me the foundations of the England and Wales litigation system. My long-term goal is to teach and practice constitutional law and eventually join politics on the path to becoming a leading politician. I have been inspired by high-achieving lawyers in Malaysia, such as Justice Anonymous, who have shaped Malaysia’s media, politics, and legal practice. I aspire to be the next in line.
Oxford offers a vast clinical & pro bono program via externships ranging from civil practice clinic to Wales Human Relations Commission. These externships indicate that Oxford wants to help all, a notion uncommon in Malaysia. Oxford is a lab for innovation and opportunities, as seen from the example of hundreds of Alumni that Oxford Law has catered to. I firmly believe that Oxford will genuinely appreciate my leadership at every scale and will polish my raw qualities and channel them so that I can apply them in Malaysia. Actual change on the grass root comes through education, and Oxford Law School is the ideal medium to achieve the highest standards.
Overall, your personal statement is impressive and well-articulated, illustrating a journey of personal and academic growth that highlights your passion, determination, and ambition. You make a compelling case for why you are interested in studying law, and specifically constitutional law, at Oxford. The narrative is well structured, and your argument about the need for constitutional reform in Malaysia is compelling and novel. Your professional experiences and extracurricular activities are quite impressive, providing evidence of your initiative and leadership abilities.
However, there are a few areas where your personal statement could be improved.
- Language & Tone: There are some areas where the tone may come off as overly self-congratulatory, which could potentially turn off some admissions officers. For instance, you could soften the phrase “My parents’ utmost involvement throughout my growing years always made me outshine my peers.”
- Coherence: The transitions between paragraphs are sometimes abrupt. For example, the transition from your second to third paragraph, where you switch from discussing your choice of Social Sciences to your achievement of securing second position in college, lacks a clear connecting link.
- Specificity: You could provide more specifics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, instead of mentioning that you taught empathy to hundreds of students, it would be helpful to illustrate what this entailed and what results it achieved.
- Mention of Oxford: The reasons for choosing Oxford Law seem generic and could apply to any top law school. To make your statement more compelling, research more about what is specific to Oxford Law – perhaps a unique program or course, or a faculty member’s work you admire, and express why that appeals to you.
- Criticizing Home Country: The criticism of Malaysia and its leaders seems a bit harsh, which may not resonate well with some readers. While it’s important to be honest about the issues you see, try to express these thoughts in a more constructive manner, focusing more on potential solutions rather than just pointing out problems.
- Ending: The statement ends abruptly. It would be great if you could end on a strong note, summarising your aspirations, and how Oxford fits into that journey.
Here is how I would grade your personal statement:
Content: B+ (The content is strong, but it could benefit from more specific examples and better transitions)
Structure: B (The narrative is coherent but could benefit from smoother transitions and a stronger conclusion)
Language & Tone: B (The tone sometimes comes off as self-congratulatory, and the language could be more nuanced in places)
Alignment with Purpose: B+ (Your statement makes a compelling case for why you want to study law at Oxford, but reasons specific to Oxford could be made more clear)
Overall Grade: B+
Your personal statement has a lot of strengths, and with a few tweaks, it could be even stronger. I hope this feedback helps you in refining it further!
Law schools typically require a personal statement for several reasons:
- Understanding You Better: The personal statement provides insights into who you are beyond your academic credentials and achievements. It helps the admissions committee understand your values, personal growth, and unique experiences that might not be evident from your GPA or LSAT scores.
- Assessing Your Communication Skills: Law is a field that requires excellent written communication skills. A well-written personal statement allows the admissions committee to gauge your ability to articulate complex thoughts, express ideas clearly, and construct logical arguments.
- Determining Your Commitment: A thoughtful personal statement can demonstrate your dedication to pursuing a legal career. It’s a way for you to express why you want to study law and how you perceive your future in the field.
- Identifying Diverse Perspectives: Law schools aim to create a diverse and dynamic learning environment. Your personal statement allows you to highlight unique experiences or perspectives that you can bring to the school, thereby contributing to this diversity.
- Evaluating Your Potential Fit: The personal statement gives the law school an opportunity to determine whether you’ll be a good fit for their institution. This isn’t just about you meeting their requirements, but also about whether the school can meet your academic and career aspirations.
- Demonstrating Resilience: Personal statements often include narratives that reveal challenges and obstacles you’ve overcome. These stories can demonstrate your resilience and problem-solving skills, traits that are highly valued in the legal profession.
In summary, a personal statement is a tool that allows law schools to evaluate you holistically. It goes beyond objective measurements of academic potential and provides a more comprehensive view of you as an individual.
Almost all law schools in the United States require a personal statement as part of the application process. The personal statement serves as a critical component of your law school application, allowing admissions committees to understand your motivations, experiences, and skills beyond what is reflected in your academic records and LSAT scores.
However, the specific requirements for law school applications can vary from one institution to another. Some schools may have specific prompts or topics they want you to address in your personal statement, while others may offer more freedom in choosing what to discuss. Certain schools might even ask for additional essays or statements to supplement your application.
If you are applying to law schools outside of the U.S., it’s always a good idea to check the specific admissions guidelines for each law school you’re interested in. Remember that meeting all of the application requirements can demonstrate your commitment and attention to detail, which are valuable traits in the legal field.
What is a Good Length for a Law School Personal Statement?
The length of a personal statement for law school can vary depending on the specific instructions provided by each law school.
A common guideline is typically around two to three double-spaced pages, or approximately 500-750 words.
This length is usually sufficient to provide a detailed narrative without overwhelming the reader with too much information. Remember, admissions committees review many applications, so they appreciate concise and compelling personal statements.
It’s very important to adhere to the instructions provided by each law school you apply to. If a specific word or page count is given, make sure you comply with that limit. Failure to do so could give the impression that you either cannot follow instructions or that you lack the ability to express yourself concisely, neither of which will help your application.
Above all, make sure that every word you write is meaningful and contributes to your overall narrative or argument. A well-crafted, succinct personal statement can often be more powerful than a longer one that lacks focus.
Writing a personal statement for law school can be a challenging task. It’s equally important to know what to avoid as it is to know what to include . Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Vague and Cliché Statements: Avoid clichés and general statements that could apply to anyone. Be specific, personal, and honest in your writing. For example, instead of saying “I want to be a lawyer to fight for justice,” show through your experiences and reflections why and how you’re committed to justice.
- Repeating Your Resume: Your personal statement should not be a recitation of your resume or transcript. It’s an opportunity to share your personal journey, perspectives, and insights that aren’t reflected in other parts of your application.
- Being Overly Emotional or Dramatic: While it’s important to show passion, avoid being excessively emotional or dramatic. Aim to strike a balance between personal storytelling and professional tone.
- Off-topic Content: Stay focused on what the prompt is asking, and tie everything back to your interest in law school and your future career. Avoid irrelevant details or anecdotes.
- Poor Structure and Flow: A disjointed or confusing statement can be difficult to read and may give a negative impression. Plan your statement carefully to ensure it has a clear structure and logical flow.
- Typos and Grammar Errors: These can give the impression of carelessness. Proofread your statement carefully, and consider having others review it as well.
- Negativity or Excuses: If discussing challenges or setbacks, focus on what you learned and how you grew from the experience rather than blaming others or making excuses.
- Making Unsupported Claims: If you claim a particular trait, back it up with concrete examples. For example, instead of just stating that you’re empathetic, share an experience that demonstrates this quality.
- Controversial Topics: Be cautious when discussing potentially divisive subjects, as you don’t want to alienate the reader. If you do choose to address a controversial issue, be sure to do so respectfully and thoughtfully.
Remember, your personal statement is a chance to present an authentic and engaging narrative about your journey towards law school. It should showcase your unique qualities, motivations, and experiences, demonstrating why you would be an excellent addition to the law school’s incoming class.
While it’s possible to use the same base personal statement for all law schools, it is not generally recommended. This is because each law school may have different prompts or expectations for what they want to see in a personal statement. If you don’t tailor your statement to each school, you might miss an opportunity to show how well you align with that specific program or fail to answer the prompt properly.
Additionally, tailoring your personal statement to each school can demonstrate your genuine interest in that particular institution. For example, you might discuss how a specific program, course, or faculty member at that school aligns with your career goals or academic interests. Showing that you’ve done your research and understand what makes each law school unique can make your application more compelling.
That said, it’s also important to maintain consistency and honesty across your applications. You might have a central narrative or theme in your personal statement that remains the same across all versions, while adjusting specific details or sections to better fit each school.
Remember to carefully review the application guidelines for each law school you apply to, paying special attention to any specific prompts or instructions for the personal statement. It’s crucial to ensure that each statement you submit not only meets all requirements, but also clearly conveys why you are a strong fit for each particular law school.
In general, it’s good practice to include your name and sometimes your LSAC (Law School Admission Council) number on every page of your personal statement, usually in the header or footer. This ensures that if the pages get separated for any reason, the admissions committee can easily match them back up.
However, each law school might have specific guidelines regarding formatting and what information to include. Always follow the specific directions provided by the school to which you’re applying. If the application instructions don’t specify whether or not to include your name, it’s generally safe to include it to ensure your personal statement is easily identifiable.
Also, it’s always a good idea to include a title for your personal statement, even if it’s just “Personal Statement,” so it’s immediately clear what the document is. If you are sending more than one essay or document (like a diversity statement or addendum), this will ensure that each one is clearly identified.
Prior to initiating the writing process, it is vital to set aside some time to formulate your thoughts. Given that the prompts for law school personal statements are usually quite generic—such as, “Why are you interested in studying law?”—candidates often face uncertainty about the best way to approach their response.
You may find yourself overwhelmed with numerous ideas, or conversely, completely devoid of inspiration. To start off, let’s consider a practical approach you can adopt if you’re grappling with where to begin.
Take a writing pad and respond to the subsequent questions:
- Why do I want to go to law school? This question helps to clarify your motivation and passion for pursuing law as a career. It can be grounded in an event, an experience, or a specific interest you’ve cultivated over time .
- What experiences have prepared me for a career in law? These could be academic, work, or extracurricular experiences, where you’ve developed skills that are relevant to a legal career, such as critical thinking, negotiation, or public speaking.
- How have my past experiences influenced my world view? This can provide context about how you approach problems, deal with adversity, or interact with diverse groups, which are all relevant to a legal career.
- How does a law degree fit into my long-term career goals? Here, you’re demonstrating an understanding of how a law degree can contribute to your aspirations, showing a commitment to the field.
- Can I discuss a specific area of law I’m interested in? It’s a bonus if you’re able to tie your experiences and interests to a particular field of law. This shows a depth of understanding and dedication to the subject.
- Is there a unique perspective or diverse background that I can bring to the law school? Schools value diversity in their student body, as it contributes to the richness of classroom discussions and the overall community.
- Have I overcome any significant obstacles or challenges in my life that have shaped who I am? This might provide insight into your resilience, determination, and adaptability, which are valuable traits in a lawyer.
- How have I demonstrated leadership or initiative in the past? Law schools are looking for leaders and self-starters, so any evidence of this will be useful in your personal statement.
- Can I articulate the values and qualities that will make me a good lawyer? You might think about empathy, integrity, diligence, advocacy, or the desire to serve others and uphold justice.
- Why am I a good fit for the specific law school I’m applying to? Consider the school’s mission statement, values, programs, faculty, etc. This can show that you’ve done your research and are committed to attending that particular school.
Formulating a compelling law school personal statement requires thoughtful introspection and strategic planning. By answering these guiding questions, you can navigate the broad prompts and articulate your experiences, motivations, and unique attributes effectively.
Remember, the goal is not to present a list of accomplishments but to paint a vivid picture of your journey towards the legal profession. So, use these questions as your starting point, and craft a narrative that stands out in the sea of applicants and resonates with the admissions committee. The journey towards a career in law starts with this crucial step, and you have the power to shape it.
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How to write the perfect ll.m. statement.
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ChatGPT has ignited concerns over cheating, but, for now, law schools say the personal statement remans a key piece of the LL.M. application
If you’re applying to an LL.M. program, writing a personal statement to your graduate law school is likely to be one of the first steps on the road to being admitted. The LL.M. statement is an opportunity to showcase what you can bring to your future cohort, which will be finely balanced to include a diversity of perspectives.
Although they may not ask you directly, the admissions committee will be looking to assess your fit with the law school’s unique culture. So, it’s important to show that you have done thorough research into the law school and its LL.M. program.
It’s a good idea to go beyond the information offered on the school’s website, and speak to current or past students to get a feel for the institution, its strengths and attributes.
“Statements are an applicant’s opportunity to highlight what makes them unique and their fit for a particular institution,” says Maureen Tracey Leo, Director of International Graduate Programs at Boston University (BU) Law School.
While some experts believe the personal statement will become less important because of advances in technology, others say that the digital era is only going to make authenticity more important in LL.M. statements.
Make a strong first impression
They’re one of the earliest interactions that you’ll have with your intended law school, so make sure your first impression counts. Law schools will say they judge each application holistically, paying attention to the application as a whole. But without a strong personal statement, you are unlikely to make it to the latter stages of the process.
“Paying careful attention to detail is critical, so students should make sure the statement is grammatically correct and error-free,” stresses Tracey Leo.
A good personal statement is likely to lead to the admissions interview, one of the final stages of the LL.M. application. The point is to demonstrate insight into your personality, background and ambition in greater detail that your CV will go into -- but in a way that makes you shine.
“It's very important,” stresses Tracey Leo of the personal statement. “It gives admissions officers a chance to see the candidate outside of their resume, GPA or test scores.”
How to structure your LL.M. statement
In terms of structure, the LL.M. statement would normally start with an overview of who you are, clearly spelling out your past achievements, motivations as well as your short-term and long-term career goals. Crucially, stress how the LL.M. will help you get where you want to go.
“The LL.M. statement allows us to evaluate what the candidate has already done and what they hope to achieve in the future,” Tracey Leo says.
From there, go into more detail about why you have chosen your law school, highlighting specific elements of the LL.M. program that resonate with you and your specific areas of interest.
A personal statement should be around one side of A4 paper, but it’s important to check the admissions requirements with the law school before sitting down to write your statement.
While some business schools now let prospective students submit other forms of content, such as videos and images, law schools generally still require written statements for admission to their LL.M. programs.
“There has been very little innovation in LL.M. personal statements in the past. Many schools have not changed their questions or prompts for many years,” says Martin Stanford, a Senior Consultant at GoLLM Admissions Consultants.
ChatGPT: will it kill the personal statement?
However, he stresses that law schools may place less emphasis on written statements in the future because of fears over cheating sparked by the emergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT.
“We know that law schools have recognized the problem and we can expect to see several changes with regards to the personal statement, but also to the admissions process more generally, being rolled out soon,” says Stanford.
In terms of the personal statement, he believes schools will emphasize the “personal” element even more. “It’s easier to let AI write a generic essay about a legal topic but not yet as easy to have it write a truly personal story, which is what most schools want to see,” explains Stanford.
Tracey Leo appears to strongly agree. “Generative AI tools may be a useful resource for students to check for grammatical or language errors in statements they have already drafted,” she says.
“However, students should avoid using these tools to write the entire personal statement for them because the products generated by these tools often lack character, humor, and all the things that make the best personal statements unique.”
So while law schools may place less emphasis on the written elements of the application in future, for now, prospective students will need to focus their efforts on writing a cracking LL.M. statement if they’re to secure admission.
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Switching legal specialties can be a big career decision. But it’s often why people embark on an LL.M. degree. Understanding when it’s time to make the leap, and how to navigate the transition successfully, can lead to greater job satisfaction and career fulfillment.
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The Personal Statement – A Key part of any Law School Application
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A good personal statement for an LLM application should be well-written, clear, and concise. It should explain your reasons for pursuing an LLM, your career goals, and how the program will help you achieve them. Here are some tips to help you write a strong personal statement:
Explain your motivation: Your personal statement should begin by explaining why you want to pursue an LLM and how it fits into your overall career goals. Provide specific examples and explain how the program will help you achieve your goals.
Highlight your qualifications : Use your personal statement to highlight your qualifications and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the program. Mention any relevant work experience, internships, research, or volunteer work that you have done.
Show your passion : An LLM is a postgraduate degree, so the admissions committee will be looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in the field and have a clear understanding of what they are applying for. Show your passion and enthusiasm for the subject matter and the field of law.
Be specific: Mention any specific areas of law that you are interested in, and explain how the LLM program will help you gain expertise in those areas.
Be honest: Be honest and authentic in your personal statement. Don’t exaggerate your achievements or qualifications, and don’t make false claims. The admissions committee will be able to tell if you’re not being truthful.
Show your personality: This is an opportunity for you to showcase your personality and stand out from other applicants. Use a unique writing style and express yourself in an engaging and compelling way.
Proofread: Make sure to proofread your personal statement multiple times before submitting it. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure that your statement is well-organized and easy to read.
Follow guidelines: Make sure to follow the guidelines provided by the university, such as the word count, and format.
In conclusion, a good personal statement for an LLM application should explain your motivation, highlight your qualifications, show your passion, be specific, honest, show your personality, proofread and follow guidelines. Remember that the personal statement is an important part of your application, and it’s your chance to make a good impression. Take the time to craft a well-written, thoughtful, and compelling statement that will set you apart from other applicants.
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Personal Statements
Learn How to Write a Stellar Personal Statement
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Creating Your Personal Statement
Your personal statement is perhaps your first opportunity in life to flex some of your latent lawyering skills.
In writing your personal statement, you are both the lawyer (advocate) and the client (subject matter). Your job is to advocate in the most effective way possible on behalf of your own law school candidacy. To “win” this case, you have to convince the judge and jury (the admissions committee) that your candidacy is compelling enough to gain admission.
By the time you fill out your law school applications, you can no longer change some aspects of your case, like your grades or your LSAT. Yet it is the way in which you advocate on your own behalf that can make the difference in persuading the admissions committee that your candidacy is compelling.
Selecting a Personal Statement Topic
Selecting a personal statement topic is the first step and, sometimes, the hardest. Taking a look at your own personal experiences will be the key element to crafting the perfect personal statement. See the three recommended steps below.
First, Make a Chronology of Your Life
Go back through your life and make a chronology that includes: (1) academic, personal, and extracurricular accomplishments; (2) tragedies and obstacles overcome; (3) books or other pieces of writing that stuck with you over the years; (4) important/inspirational courses and professors you’ve taken; (5) meaningful jobs and volunteer work you’ve done; (6) the most important/inspirational people in your life and (7) if you’re leaning heavily towards a type of law you’d like to practice someday or a cause you’d like to serve using your legal education, then list in your chronology the events that pushed you in those directions.
Second, Canvass Those Closest to You
Ask your 3 closest family members and 3 closest friends to list the qualities they admire most about you, and the accomplishments, obstacles overcome in life, and life and academic experiences that most immediately come to mind when they think of you. Compile and condense those lists to see which qualities, accomplishments, obstacles overcome, life and academic experiences would make the best source material for a law school personal statement. Then add these to your chronology (and for the qualities, list any life experiences that exemplify those qualities). When canvassing your family and friends, you may want to show them your chronology as a way to help move along your conversations with them.
Third, Develop Personal Statement Topics from Your Chronology
With all this information organized into a chronology, you should be able to easily generate compelling topics for personal statements.
Popular Personal Statement Topics
You can write about almost anything when it comes to a personal statement for law school. In our experience, the majority of personal statements — and certainly many of the most successful ones — fit into one of the following three categories.
1. Answering a Question an Admissions Dean Would Most Likely Ask
Sometimes, after an admissions dean has read through an applicant’s resume and list of activities, it’s obvious what a person should write about. If you’re a serious collegiate athlete, write about that. If you’ve had significant leadership positions in student government or non-profits, then write about how they’ve matured you or how you hope to carry those efforts forward with a legal education. If a serious obstacle in your life has affected how you’ve studied or spent your time in extracurriculars, then write about that experience. The point is, if your resume or extracurriculars have a predominant theme, then hammer home that theme in a compelling personal statement.
2. A Memorable Academic Experience
Sometimes a college or even high school course steers you towards a life in the law. It could be a hands-on government experience during a college independent research course, or a science class that covered the intersection of science, policy and the law, or a term paper that explored law, policy or politics. Whatever that memorable academic experience, write about it and its impact on your career goals.
3. Words of Wisdom
Sometimes a book, a speech or even a quote can change the arc of your life. Or perhaps you were inspired by the example of a professor or teacher, and that inspiration has carried you forward to this day. If it has, then write about it, making sure to relate that writing or professor’s example to your life in tangible ways.
5 Dos of Personal Statement Writing
While there are probably 100 instructions we could offer about writing effective personal statements, these five are especially important.
1. Follow Directions
Every law school application has directions about the substance and format of the personal statement you need to write. Whatever those directions are — follow them. You could write a terrific essay, but if it doesn’t address the topic requested, admissions committee members will wonder why you didn’t follow their directions.
Take a look at some of the sample personal statement questions below that we’ve collected from various law schools. And note: some law schools will tell you to write about pretty much anything and to choose the length. In such cases, it’s far better to craft a traditional essay and keep it to two pages or less, than to try something substantively risky that goes on for five or 10 pages. In all instances, you should double-space your personal statement and put your name and Social Security number at the top of every page.
2. Grammar, Spelling & Details
The spelling and grammar of your personal statement must be flawless. Most personal statements are only two pages/500 words or so length. Find at least three people to proof your work before you submit it to any law school. And before you mail or hit the “Send” button on your applications, make sure you are sending the right personal statement to the right law school. This sounds like such obvious advice, but each year law schools receive the wrong personal statement from an applicant and that, alone, is enough to deny you admission.
3. Distinguish Yourself
The whole point of writing a strong personal statement is to convince an admissions committee that your written communication skills and some aspect of your life are more compelling than another applicant with a similar LSAT score. Put differently, if a law school admissions committee is looking to fill out its incoming class with an academic pedigree that’s similar to yours, then you need to explain why you’re more interesting or will contribute more to the incoming class than the next person with your same grades.
4. Be Confident & Positive
It almost always helps if your tone exudes confidence and positivity no matter the subject matter of your personal statement. Here’s what confidence and positivity mean in the context of a personal statement:
Confidence: Confidence, in a personal statement, means stating forcefully yet humbly what you expect to accomplish with your law degree, or stressing how you overcame something as opposed to dwelling on the obstacle, setback or tragedy in your life.
Positivity: Positivity, in a personal statement, means emphasizing the solutions to a problem or injustice rather than dramatizing for effect the problem or injustice or stressing what you learned or how you’ve matured by overcoming adversity in your life.
5. Start Strong & End Strong
Your opening paragraph or sentence must captivate your readers, and it must successfully introduce the subject matter of your personal statement. Likewise, your conclusion must resolve the topic you’ve raised in a memorable way. Because the beginning and ending of your personal statement are so critical, you should try out three different openings and three different conclusions to see which ones work best.
5 Don’ts of Personal Statement Writing
Just as there are probably 100 “Dos” we could offer, there are 100 “Don’ts” we could list, too — but the five below are among the most important.
1. Don’t Distill Your Resume into Essay Form
A personal statement is not a long-form resume. Your resume exists to organize and summarize your achievements and experiences into one page. Your personal statement exists to demonstrate to an admissions committee that your written communication skills are strong, that you are insightful and interesting, and that there exists a coherent story about why you’re applying to law school.
2. Don’t Focus on Your Weaknesses
Your personal statement is a positive essay to convince an admissions committee to admit you to their school. It is not a forum for excuses, explanations, or justifications about why some aspect of your law school application is weaker than it should be.
3. Don’t Write Colloquially
Think of the admissions committee as the judge or the jury hearing your case. You would never submit a court brief written in an informal style, replete with contractions, sarcasm, and unconventional structure. Do not write your personal statement in an informal manner.
4. Don’t Focus on Another Person to the Exclusion of Yourself
Sometimes, if you write about a book or quote or professor or some other person in your life, it is tempting to spend a significant amount of time during your personal statement writing about that person rather than yourself. Resist this temptation. You are not writing a personal statement in order to get that person admitted to law school. You are writing a personal statement to show how their wisdom affected you in a meaningful way and why you are a perfect candidate for admission.
5. Don’t Submit a Lightly Edited Draft
A surprising number of admissions deans at top law schools have told us that their schools routinely reject applicants with super-high GPAs and LSATs when those applicants submit a personal statement that clearly reflects a lack of effort or attention to detail. Nothing — nothing — turns off an admissions committee more than an applicant turning in a rough draft personal statement.
Sample Personal Statement Questions
Below are the personal statement writing instructions for seven top law schools. They should give you a good sense of the kinds of questions most law schools ask of applicants, as well as the instructions on the form for completing your personal statement.
Columbia Law School
“While there is no official page limit, a good guideline is two double-spaced pages, using readable fonts and margins. Your personal statement/essay should be a clear and concise example of your best writing. It should also be free from spelling and grammatical errors.”
Georgetown Law
“Georgetown Law does not have a minimum or maximum length for the personal statement, though we recommend around two pages double-spaced. You can write your personal statement on any subject that will enable the Admissions Committee to get to know you.”
Harvard Law School
“The personal statement provides an opportunity for you to present yourself, your background, your ideas, and your qualifications to the Admissions Committee. Please limit your statement to two pages using a minimum of 11-point font, 1-inch margins, and double spacing. We expect applicants to use the full two pages in crafting their statement.
The personal statement is intended as an opportunity to give the Admissions Committee a better sense of who you are as a person and as a potential student and graduate of Harvard Law School. In many instances, applicants have used the personal statement to provide more context on how their experiences and strengths could make them valuable contributors to the Harvard and legal communities, to illuminate their intellectual background and interests, or to clarify or elaborate on other information in their application. Because applicants and their experiences differ, you are the best person to determine the content of your statement.”
University of Michigan Law School
“As you prepare to write your personal statement, please keep the following in mind. First, we do not have a fixed checklist of particular attributes we seek in our students, and you will have the best insights into what is most important for us to know. Second, there is no set convention for communicating the information you choose to share. A successful essay might involve writing directly about expansive themes such as your goals or philosophy or background or identity, or very differently, might be a vignette that reveals something significant about you. Thus, there is no formula for a successful personal statement, and different individuals will find different topics to be well-suited to them. Applicants have, for example, elaborated on their significant life experiences; meaningful intellectual interests and extracurricular activities; factors inspiring them to obtain a legal education or to pursue particular career goals; significant obstacles met and overcome; special talents or skills; issues of identity, such as gender, sex, race, or ethnicity; particular political, philosophical, or religious beliefs; socioeconomic challenges; atypical backgrounds, educational paths, employment histories, or prior careers; or experiences and perspectives relating to discrimination, disadvantage, or disability. Any of these subjects, and many more, could be an appropriate basis for communicating important information about yourself that will aid us in reaching a thoughtful decision. In other words, think broadly about what you might wish to convey and how you might best convey it.
While we do not impose a page or word limit for the personal statement, we value clear and concise writing; most personal statements are between two and four pages. For ease of reading, please use double-spacing and at least an 11-point font.”
Northwestern University School of Law
“Your personal statement is an opportunity to present yourself as more than an LSAT score and GPA. The personal statement sets you apart from other candidates. It is also a sample of your ability to express thoughts clearly and cogently.”
Stanford Law School
“Enclose a statement of about two pages sharing important or unusual information about yourself that is not otherwise apparent in your application. This statement must be submitted electronically with your electronic application.”
University of Texas School of Law
“The personal statement is an opportunity to share with the Admissions Committee your background, interests, as well as the important experiences and aspects of yourself not otherwise apparent from your résumé and academic record. Your personal statement demonstrates to the Admissions Committee not only how you write—a skill fundamental to success in the legal profession—but also how you think and how you have reflected upon and derived meaning from your life experiences. Although there is no specific topic or question for the personal statement, your narrative should at some point address your decision to pursue a legal education.
Your personal statement may not exceed two (2) double-spaced pages with a minimum 11-point font size and 1-inch margins.”
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Welcome (back) to Law School Reading List
Welcome back to the 2Ls and 3Ls, and we’re looking forward to meeting the new 1Ls, LLM, and MSL students! We hope everyone had a great summer. This reading list includes books about starting law school and going into a legal career. You can find more information in the library’s Law School Survival guide .
![northwestern llm personal statement Book cover of Learning Outside the Box](https://libraryblog.law.northwestern.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/outside-the-box.jpg?w=731)
Learning Outside the Box : A Handbook for Law Students Who Learn Differently
Leah Christensen
This book focuses on the reading, studying and testing strategies that are particularly helpful to law students who learn differently. It is a learning guide based upon empirical research and statistical correlations between learning strategies and law school GPA’s. This book will also show you what the most successful law students do by using interviews and examples from actual law students. ( from the publisher )
![northwestern llm personal statement Book cover of 24 Hours with 24 Lawyers](https://libraryblog.law.northwestern.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/24-hours.jpg?w=223)
24 Hours with 24 Lawyers : Profiles of Traditional and Non-Traditional Careers
Spend twenty-four hours with twenty-four lawyers through this innovative book. Whether you want to be a full-time corporate lawyer, work as a legal consultant while pursuing your music career, or anything in between, this book gives you a unique ‘all-access pass’ into the real-world, real-time personal and professional lives of twenty-four law school graduates. These working professionals each present you with a ‘profile’ chronicling a typical twenty-four-hour day in their traditional and non-traditional careers. (from the publisher)
![northwestern llm personal statement Cover of The Guide to Belonging in Law School](https://libraryblog.law.northwestern.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/guide-to-belonging.png?w=518)
The Guide to Belonging in Law School
Russell McClain
The Guide to Belonging in Law School accomplishes two discrete goals. First, it requires readers to engage in an authentic, rigorous, mini-law school semester involving reading, studying, exam preparation, and exam writing. Second, the book provides a foundation for students from marginalized groups to recognize and manage both subtle and explicit barriers that can impede their progress. ( from the publisher )
![northwestern llm personal statement Cover of Sh*t No One Tells You About Law School](https://libraryblog.law.northwestern.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/sht.jpg?w=400)
Sh*t No One Tells You About Law School
Tanya Monestier
Sh*t No One Tells You About Law School offers law students an irreverent, fun, and honest compilation of advice culled from the author’s fifteen years of teaching experience. Think Jessica Pearson meets Carrie Bradshaw-shoe closet included! This book is a tell-it-like-it-is account of how students can successfully navigate the law school experience (minus the boring stuff). ( from the publisher )
![northwestern llm personal statement Cover of Beyond One L](https://libraryblog.law.northwestern.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/beyond.png?w=683)
Beyond One L : Stories about Finding Meaning and Making a Difference in Law
Nancy Levit and Allen Rostron, eds.
The book elevates the perspective of attorneys who experienced law school through the lens of historically marginalized people and communities. The collection of essays is divided into eight parts, which are loosely organized chronologically around the decision to go to law school, the law school experience and the bar exam, post-law-school career paths and, finally, finding meaning and fulfillment in the practice of law. Collectively, these essays provide an array of perspectives that will likely appeal broadly to prospective law students and practicing lawyers alike.
Click to read the full review from the Journal of Legal Education .
Other books from our collection (click for a link to the catalog):
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Who is in the Big Ten? Conference welcomes four teams and 2024 season Week 1 schedule
The Big Ten , the oldest Division I Conference in America, has expanded for the first time since 2014. Four teams are joining for the upcoming 2024 season, bringing the total number of team members to 18. This expansion sets the stage for exciting matchups and builds anticipation for the college football season across the country.
The four teams joining the Big Ten Conference for their inaugural season are the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the University of Oregon, the University of Southern California (USC), and the University of Washington.
“We are excited today to officially welcome the University of Oregon, UCLA, USC and the University of Washington to the Big Ten Conference,” said Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti in a statement . “All four institutions feature a combination of world class academics and athletics that are a great fit for our conference, and we look forward to building long-lasting relationships with the administrators, coaches, student-athletes, alumni and fans.”
More: Ohio State leads USA TODAY Sports preseason college football All-America team
What teams make up the Big Ten in 2024?
The newcomers join Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Rutgers, Maryland, Northwestern, Purdue, Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan State and Indiana to make up the 18 Big Ten teams.
Big Ten Week 1 college football schedule:
Thursday, august 29:.
All times are Eastern.
- Howard at Rutgers at 6:00 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- North Carolina at Minnesota at 8:00 p.m. on FOX
- Eastern Illinois at Illinois at at 9:00 p.m. on Big Ten Network
Friday, August 30:
- Florida Atlantic at Michigan State at 7:00 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- Western Michigan at Wisconsin at 9:00 p.m. on Big Ten Network
Saturday, August 31:
- Penn State vs. West Virginia at 12:00 p.m. on FOX
- Illinois State vs. Iowa at 12:00 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- UConn vs. Maryland at 12:00 p.m. on FS1
- Indiana State vs. Purdue at 12:00 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- Akron vs. Ohio State at 3:30 p.m. on CBS
- Florida International vs. Indiana at 3:30 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- UTEP vs. Nebraska at 3:30 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- Miami (OH) vs. Northwestern at 3:30 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- Idaho vs. Oregon at 7:30 p.m. on Big Ten Network
- Fresno State vs. Michigan at 7:30 p.m. on NBC
- UCLA vs. Hawai'i at 7:30 p.m. on CBS
- Weber State vs. Washington at 11 p.m. on Big Ten Network
Sunday, September 1:
- USC vs. LSU at 7:30 p.m. on ABC
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
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Pakistani, Afghan Taliban forces trade fire at Torkham border crossing, killing 3 Afghan civilians
Local residents stand beside a wall damaged due to cross firing between Pakistan and Afghan Taliban forces near Torkham border area of Nangarhar, province east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Shafiullah Kakar)
A soldier of Afghan Taliban forces stands guard close to the Torkham border of Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Shafiullah Kakar)
Drivers sleep under their truck and wait to the opening of the border, which closed following cross border firing between Pakistan and Afghan Taliban forces near Torkham border area of Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Shafiullah Kakar)
A local resident stands beside a window shattered due to cross firing between Pakistan and Afghan Taliban forces near Torkham border area of Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Shafiullah Kakar)
Drivers sit beside their trucks and wait for the opening of the border, which closed following cross border firing between Pakistan and Afghan Taliban forces near Torkham border area of Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Shafiullah Kakar)
A soldier of Afghan Taliban forces patrols on the vicinity of Torkham border of Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Shafiullah Kakar)
Afghans walk back after border crossing closed following firing between Pakistan and Afghan Taliban forces near Torkham, border of Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday. (AP Photo/Shafiullah Kakar)
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ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side of the border, officials said Tuesday.
There was no immediate word on casualties on the Pakistani side of the Torkham border which was shut, disrupting trade and movement of people between the two countries, local Pakistani official Zahid Khan said.
Torkham, a key border crossing, is located in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
It was unclear who initiated the attack, though such cross-border fire is common along the Afghan-Pakistan border. Each side has in the past closed Torkham, and also the southwestern Chaman border crossing in Pakistan, for various reasons. Both crossings are vital for trade and travel for Afghanistan and Pakistan.
In Kabul, Abdul Mateen Qani, a spokesman for Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry, said the clash took place Monday and accused Pakistani forces of targeting civilians.
He said “Pakistani forces opened fire on forces of the Islamic Emirate in the Ghorki area near the Durand line in Torkham area, prompting a response from the Afghan side,.”
He said on the social media platform X that Afghan forces destroyed two Pakistani border posts during the clashes.
Pakistani officials say the two sides were in contact with each other to defuse tensions.
Local officials in Pakistan on Tuesday said thousands of people living near the Torkham border fled and evacuated to safer places on Monday.
Pakistani authorities said trucks carrying perishable items, including vegetables and fruits, were waiting on both sides of the border Tuesday for the reopening of the Torkham crossing.
The Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021 as U.S. and NATO troops were withdrawing from the country after 20 years of war. Like the rest of the world, Pakistan has so far not recognized Afghanistan’s Taliban government. The international community has been wary of the Taliban’s harsh measures, imposed since their takeover, especially in restricting the rights of women and minorities.
Associated Press writer Riaz Khan contributed to this story from Peshawar, Pakistan.
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Programs and statistics.
Do you have any joint degree programs? Yes. We have a JD-PhD program with The Graduate School and a JD-MBA program with the Kellogg School of Management. We also offer a JD-LLM in Taxation program.
Do you have a part-time or evening program? No. We only offer a full-time JD program that student complete in three years.
Where can I find a copy of Northwestern's Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics? As provided by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, you are entitled to request and receive a copy of Northwestern University's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. This Report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Northwestern University; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from campus. The Report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies on drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this Report by contacting the Northwestern University Police Department Deputy Chief at (847) 491-3256. The Report can also be accessed and printed from the University Police website .
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Standardized Test Requirement: LSAT and GRE
Northwestern Law welcomes both LSAT and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) results from applicants to our entering JD programs. The following FAQs address admissions-related and logistical matters for the standardized test requirement.
Do you accept the February LSAT for admission? Yes. However, we cannot guarantee that seats in the incoming class will still be available by the time we receive the CAS report with your February LSAT score.
If I take the LSAT more than once, will you take the highest score or the average of the scores? Northwestern Law’s policy is to review and to report the highest score earned on the LSAT.
How long is my LSAT score valid? According to the Law School Admission Council, LSAT scores are valid for five (5) years.
If I previously sat for the GRE and not the LSAT, how do I apply to the JD program? Please complete the Northwestern Law JD application via LSAC.org .
What is Northwestern Law's GRE school code? Our GRE school code is 2579.
May I submit an unofficial GRE score report? No. We will only accept official GRE report(s) from ETS. Please contact ETS directly to have your official GRE Score Report sent to Northwestern Law.
What is the oldest GRE score you will accept for my JD application? Consistent with our policy for LSAT score(s), no more than five years may have passed from the date of your GRE administration.
Am I required to submit a LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report if I apply with a GRE score? Yes. The CAS report is required for all applicants to Northwestern Law's JD program. The CAS report will include your transcripts, your undergraduate grade point average, other relevant data, and your required letter(s) of recommendation.
If I have taken both the GRE and the LSAT, how do I apply to the JD program? Please complete the JD application . If you have already submitted your application for Fall 2024 admission and wish to have your GRE score considered along with your LSAT score, please submit the Northwestern Law GRE Intention Form . You must contact ETS directly to have your Official GRE Score Report sent to Northwestern Law. Because a CAS report must be submitted by all applicants to our JD program, the Admissions Committee will have access to any LSAT score(s) reported there.
If I have taken both the GRE and the LSAT, am I required to submit my GRE score? No. You may submit just your LSAT score.
May I apply to the binding Early Decision (ED) program this year with only the GRE? ED applicants may satisfy the Law School's standardized test requirement by submitting the LSAT, the GRE, or both. Through the CAS process, the Admissions Committee will view LSAT results and will consider those score(s) in its review if an applicant has previously taken it.
Why is Northwestern Law including GRE scores in the admissions process? We are pleased to continually evolve our admissions process to attract the strongest and most diverse class possible, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this change across law schools. We are confident this practice will benefit students, faculty, schools, and the legal professional at large.
How may I obtain an application for admission? Our application for the fall 2024 entering JD class will be available on September 1, 2023 . You may access the application online through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). If you require a pdf version of our application form for accessibility purposes, please contact us via email at: [email protected] .
How do I request an application fee waiver? As an incentive for prospective applicants to apply "early" (between September 1 and December 31), we offer application fee waivers to any prospective JD applicant who simply fills out our registration form. This form may be found on our Apply page beginning September 1, 2023 . A fee waiver code will be created for you and emailed within two to three business days.
From time to time during the admissions cycle, we also send fee waivers to candidates who are registered with LSAC's Credential Referral Service and who meet certain Admissions Committee criteria. In order to be considered, be sure to check the CRS box when registering your LSAC account. Members of the admissions team may also offer fee waivers to prospective applicants they meet during fall recruiting events.
As of January 1, 2024 , prospective applicants seeking an application fee waiver must complete a need-based JD Fee Waiver Application and provide answers to additional questions. The need-based JD Fee Waiver Application will be posted to our Apply page by January 1, 2024. Applicants holding LSAC fee waivers are also required to complete our JD Fee Waiver Application and should attach a copy of their LSAC fee waiver notification. Need-based JD fee waiver applications are reviewed weekly, and notices or requests for additional documentation are sent via email.
Should you receive an application fee waiver, be certain to submit your JD application by the stated expiration date. Once a fee waiver code has expired, the Office of Admissions will not issue a new one.
Are deferrals granted? One-year deferrals are granted on a case-by-case basis. Historically, the Admissions Committee has granted a deferral for compelling reasons, such as unforeseen hardships or extraordinary opportunities. The admitted student must: (1) pay an initial $750 seat deposit that holds a seat in the entering class to which he/she/they have been admitted; and (2) submit a written request stating the reason(s) a deferral is necessary. If the Admissions Committee grants the deferral, the admitted student will be required to pay two additional deposits by the dates articulated in the deferral letter. All deposits are non-refundable and will be applied toward the student's first tuition bill. In the event the deferred student withdraws, the enrollment deposits are forfeited.
Do you accept visiting students? Yes. Students currently enrolled at another law school that is a member of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS) may apply to be a visiting student at Northwestern Law.
What if I have Character and Fitness questions? Each state has character and fitness qualifications for admission to the bar. Prior to matriculation, applicants should consult the bar admission authorities in the specific state where they intend to practice to determine these requirements. Information about the requirements for bar admission in all jurisdictions is available from the American Bar Association .
Interviewing
I heard that you interview your applicants at Northwestern Law. How do I take advantage of this opportunity?
For more than two decades, interviews have been a noteworthy opportunity for applicants to Northwestern Law. In recent years, approximately 95% of our entering JD classes have completed an interview.
We are delighted to offer our applicants the opportunity to complete an online video interview . You will record answers to interview questions that members of the Northwestern Law community have written and filmed. Because an online video interview platform may pose a new experience for our applicants, we hear a number of frequently asked questions. We've provided answers to a set of FAQs about our online interview process below.
May I interview before I’ve submitted my application? No. Submission of an application is required before you may proceed with your interview. Furthermore, you must opt into the interview process within your application form. Our office will provide you with instructions and guidance after you have submitted your application.
I indicated that I did not intend to interview on my application, but I have changed my mind. What should I do? You must write to our office at [email protected] indicating that you want your application held until your interview occurs. A member of our team will update your application and send you an invitation to our online interview platform.
May I interview multiple times? No. Applicants are not allowed to interview more than once per cycle unless otherwise indicated by the Admissions Office.
I'm applying ED. Do I have to interview? Yes. As a requirement for the Early Decision (ED) application, ED candidates must complete an online video interview. Upon submitting your ED application to Northwestern Law, you will receive an invitation to our online portal and logistical guidance for completing your interview.
What should I do if I have questions regarding accessibility? Kira interview assessments are designed to be accessible for all users. The platform is WCAG 2.0 compliant, meeting requirements of the ADA and AODA for web platforms. If you have additional questions regarding accessibility, contact [email protected] .
Online Video Interviewing
Why does Northwestern Law offer an online video interview? Interviews have long been an important part of the admissions process at Northwestern Law. Online video interviews provide a relatively easy and convenient method for our applicants across the nation and the world! For that matter, the online option affords you the flexibility to conduct the interview whenever and wherever you are able.
How do I schedule an online interview?
You must opt in to the interview within our application for fall 2023 admission. Specifically, there is a question within the application that allows you to demonstrate your intention to complete the interview. After you have submitted your application, a member of our team will send you an invitation to the online video portal. (We strive to send these links within five business days of our receipt of applications.) You will have 14 days from the date you receive an invitation to the online video platform to complete and submit your interview . Your application will remain incomplete until you have submitted your interview responses. As such, we highly recommend completing your interview as soon as possible to minimize any processing delays of your application. After 14 days, your application will be moved forward in the process if you have not completed your online video interview. Please note: For applications submitted on or after our application deadline of February 15, 2024 , online video interviews should be submitted as soon as possible.
Transfer applicants are required to complete an online video interview. Within two business days of submitting your transfer application, a member of our team will send you instructions for completing your transfer interview and a link to our online interview platform. We encourage you to submit the interview as soon as possible, but no later than the transfer application deadline.
How does the online video interview work? Once you log onto the site, you will have the opportunity to practice recording yourself as many times as you would like. Once you are comfortable with the site, you may begin recording your responses. You will view recorded questions, all from members of the Admissions Committee and the Northwestern Law community. From there, you have only have one take to record your response to each question. The interview will consist of five unique questions that will differ from those that you received during your practice session(s).
What types of questions will you ask? The questions are designed to give us more insight into your career goals, motivation for pursuing a legal education, and experience. We are also interested in learning about your specific interest in Northwestern Law.
How much time will I have to think of a response and how long will I have to give my answer? You will have 30 seconds to formulate your response and 90 seconds to provide your answer. We recommend you take advantage of the unlimited and unrecorded practice questions in order to become familiar with the process and to be more relaxed. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will feel during the interview itself.
May I re-record my responses if I am not satisfied? Unfortunately, no. Once you begin your actual interview, you will have only one opportunity to answer each question. This is why we encourage you to take advantage of the platform's practice sessions.
Will I have access to my interview after it is submitted? No. The only individuals who may view your responses are the members of the Northwestern Law Admissions Committee.
How long is the interview? Once you move past the practice round questions and begin your formal interview, it should take approximately 20-25 minutes to complete.
Do I need to complete the interview in one sitting? No. That said, we highly recommend that you do so for continuity's sake. You must complete a question once you start it, but you do not have to finish all questions in one sitting.
What should I wear? Treat the online video interview as if you are preparing for a job interview and plan to dress professionally. You may wear a suit if you wish, but business casual attire is acceptable.
Where should I record my online video interview? We recommend locating a quiet place with a good internet connection that is free from distractions. Before you get started with the practice questions, you should test the strength of your connection. If at any point you get stuck, our partner firm (Kira) provides technical support to assist you 24 hours/7 days a week.
How does the online video interview factor into my admission decision? The Admissions Committee prides itself on the '360 degree' review we conduct for all of our applications. Interviews enable us to envision you as a potential member of the Northwestern Law community. They also allow us to get more detailed information about the values that are important to us in the review process, including interpersonal skills. Because the interview is optional, completing this process is a good way to demonstrate your interest in Northwestern Law.
I did not opt in to the online interview on my application, but I have changed my mind. Is it possible to schedule an online interview? Yes, but you must write to our office at [email protected] , indicating your wish to have your application held until you have completed your online video interview. A member of our team will update your application and send you an invitation to our online interview platform.
Financial Aid
If admitted, will scholarship information be included? All financial aid determinations are made through a separate application process. The Admissions Committee sends admitted students detailed guidance on the process soon after the offer of admission is extended.
Do you have merit based scholarships? All of our scholarships are awarded on a combined basis of merit and need. We use the terms "scholarship" and "grant" interchangeably.
Tell me about your Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) for those pursuing a career in Public Interest? View details surrounding our Loan Repayment Assistance Program .
Do you have any clinical programs? Yes! For many years, approximately 90% of graduates have registered for at least one clinical opportunity during their time at the Law School. Detailed information surrounding our historical and comprehensive clinical offerings may be found on the Bluhm Legal Clinic's w ebsite .
Do I have to specialize in any one area? No. However, if you would like to tailor your schedule of classes following your first year we offer the following concentrations: Business Enterprise , Civil Litigation and Dispute Resolution , International Law , Appellate Law , Environmental Law , Law and Social Policy , and Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship.
What are your study abroad opportunities? From our unique International Team Projects program to the potential of studying abroad, you may learn more about Northwestern Law's robust line-up of global opportunities by visiting our website here .
Fundamental Information - Timeline and Eligibility
How many transfer students do you enroll?
Each year, between 30 and 35 students transfer from other law schools accredited by the American Bar Association. These students join the rising 2L class during the fall semester.
What is the “best” time to apply for transfer admission?
It depends! Beginning March 2024, we are offering two opportunities to apply for transfer admission. You may apply through our inaugural Binding Early Decision – JD Transfer program or through our traditional Regular Decision – JD Transfer program.
I'm interested in the Binding Early Decision - JD Transfer program. Can you tell me more about it?
We encourage candidates who have identified Northwestern Law as their top choice for transfer admission to apply through our inaugural Binding Early Decision – JD Transfer program .
Northwestern Law evaluates Early Decision – JD Transfer applications according to the same selection criteria as Regular Decision – JD Transfer applications. However, an Early Decision – JD Transfer applicant’s particular interest in Northwestern Law, evidenced by their Early Decision – JD Transfer application designation, is specially considered by the admissions committee. And because of the timing for the Binding Early Decision – JD Transfer program, the admissions committee will evaluate applicants’ performance for the first semester of law school. Otherwise, Early Decision – JD Transfer applicants do not have a significant advantage in the selection process.
This is a binding admission program. If admitted through the Early Decision – JD Transfer program, Early Decision applicants commit themselves to matriculating at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. Applicants may not apply to any other binding Early Decision – JD Transfer programs during the same transfer admission cycle. Early Decision – JD Transfer applicants may only apply to other law schools through those institutions’ regular decision programs. Please review the conditions for candidates admitted to the Early Decision – JD Transfer program within the Binding Early Decision – JD Transfer Certification Form .
When is the application period for the Binding Early Decision - JD Transfer Program?
The applicant portal for the Binding Early Decision - JD Transfer program will be available on Monday, March 25, 2024 . At that time, you may click on a link to the portal from the Office of Admissions' Apply webpage . All application requirements, including the submission of an online video interview, must be completed and submitted by Friday, April 26, 2024 .
A complete Binding Early Decision - JD Transfer application consists of several requirements. We urge you to carefully review the Application Instructions for Fall 2024 Transfer Candidates .
When will I receive a decision on my file if I apply to the Binding Early Decision - JD Transfer Program?
The Office of Admissions will contact applicants to the Binding Early Decision – JD Transfer Program during the week of May 13, 2024. These candidates will be notified of a decision on their file; this decision may be an offer of admission, a denial, or the opportunity to remain under consideration through our Regular Decision – JD Transfer Program.
I want to apply to more than one law school as a transfer candidate. Should I apply to the Regular Decision - JD Transfer program?
Yes. The Regular Decision - JD Transfer application portal will open on our Apply webpage on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 . A complete transfer application consists of several requirements. Applicants to the Regular Decision – JD Transfer Program are responsible for submitting and completing every application requirement prior to the deadline on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 . By mid-June 2024, we will make offers of admission on a rolling basis. We encourage applicants to submit all required materials as early as possible to be considered for admission through the Regular Decision – JD Transfer Program.
A complete Regular Decision - JD Transfer application consists of several requirements. We urge you to carefully review the Application Instructions for Fall 2024 Transfer Candidates .
Given the relatively short application period, we encourage you to establish a thoughtful timeline in order to complete your transfer application well before the deadline. With that said, we recommend starting your application in May, after you have completed your 1L final exams at your current law school.
We will not be able to render a final decision on your Regular Decisoin - JD Transfer application until we receive your complete 1L transcripts. It may take some time to complete the other requirements. It's a good idea to work on those steps (including but not limited to the completion of the transfer application form and your transfer personal statement, securing a letter of recommendation from a 1L professor, submitting the required online interview, etc.) as you await the release of your 1L transcripts from your current law school.
Does the Admissions Committee admit transfer students on a "rolling" basis?
Yes. Beginning in early to mid-June, the Admissions Committee will complete its first "round" of offers for successful transfer applicants. Because of the brief transfer admission cycle, these admitted students will be required to submit a deposit in a matter of a few days so that we may introduce them to their career advisers in preparation for the Law School's summer On-Campus Interviewing Program (OCI). We will also introduce them to the student editors of the Law School's seven journals so they may apply for the summer 'write-on' competition. As you may imagine, this is all time-sensitive.
The Admissions Committee will continue to review completed transfer applications and admit successful candidates on a weekly basis until the beginning of July. This underscores why it is critical for transfer applicants to ensure that all application requirements are submitted and complete no later than the published application deadline.
How do I secure a fee waiver to apply for transfer admission?
Historically, we have not offered fee waivers to our transfer applicants. This policy will continue for applicants to our fall 2024 transfer program.
I just completed my first year of law school as a part-time student. May I apply for transfer to Northwestern?
No. Because Northwestern Law does not have a part-time or evening division, we cannot admit transfer students pursuing a part-time course of study. As is stated on the Law School's Academics webpage pertaining to Transfer Students : "To be eligible to apply as a transfer student, you must have completed 28 credit hours and a 1L curriculum similar to Northwestern Law’s .
I have completed two years of study as a part-time student at my current law school. As such, I have completed a 1L curriculum that is substantially similar to that of Northwestern Law's first-year curriculum. But I have significantly more credit hours. May I apply to be a full-time student now?
We do not encourage applicants who have completed significantly more than 28 credit hours to apply to transfer to our full-time JD program.
The amount of credit any transfer student will receive at Northwestern Law for courses completed at another law school will not exceed 28 credit hours .
Furthermore, you must intend to complete your last two years in residence at Northwestern Law. For these reasons, you would necessarily forfeit a significant number of credit hours earned at your current law school, and you would extend the amount of time invested in your legal education.
I see that Northwestern is accepting GRE scores in its review of JD applicants. May I apply for transfer admission with only a GRE score?
Yes. GRE-only candidates must submit an official score report from ETS, as well as a Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report from the Law School Admission Council.
Northwestern Law's GRE school code is 2579. Please notify us at the time of your application that you will be submitting a GRE score in lieu of an LSAT score. Please send an email to us at the time of your transfer application; the address is: [email protected].
What courses must I have completed in order to submit a transfer application?
To be considered for transfer admission, you must have completed 28 graded credit hours in a 1L curriculum that is substantially similar to Northwestern Law’s .
The basic foundation in law and reasoning that all ABA-accredited schools require of first year law students typically includes Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, Property, and Torts. Furthermore, 1L coursework in legal writing and research is required. (At Northwestern, this coursework is named Communication and Legal Reasoning I and II.)
My law school does not offer Constitutional Law during the first year, but I see that it is part of the required 1L curriculum at Northwestern. May I still apply?
Yes. We recognize that certain doctrinal courses such as Constitutional Law may be upper-division requirements at other law schools. If you are admitted as a transfer student, our registrar's office will enable you to enroll in Constitutional Law during your 2L year at Northwestern.
Application Requirements
Is there a checklist for applying as a transfer student?
Yes. We know you successfully completed the law school admission process a year ago. However, provided the relatively brief time to apply and the distinct requirements for transfer admission, it might be a bit daunting to get started. We encourage all prospective transfer applicants to carefully review these detailed instructions to guide you through the process.
I heard that Northwestern Law requires interviews for transfer applicants. Is that true?
Yes. We are excited to meet you! We require all of our transfer applicants to complete an online video interview . Most all of the questions have been designed specifically for our transfer applicants. Here are a number of detailed answers to FAQs about our online interview program ; please note that these FAQs pertain to our interview program for entering 1Ls, as well.
Within two business days of submitting your transfer application, we will send you instructions for completing your transfer interview, along with a link to our online interview platform. We encourage you to submit the interview as soon as possible, but no later than the transfer application deadline.
I am currently in Chicago. May I complete the required interview in person, rather than through the online interview portal?
No. We require the online video interview of all our transfer applicants and the platform itself creates a level playing field. For that matter, it makes the transfer process more streamlined for both you and the Admissions Committee. The interview is a great way for you to build your transfer application. We look forward to learning more about your motivation, maturity, and interpersonal skills.
What makes a transfer applicant successful?
We have overarching goals as we enroll our transfer class each summer. We'll detail two of our objectives here.
First, we will carefully review your entire transfer application and your online interview. Every component of the transfer application is designed to provide us with important information about your candidacy. At the same time, we are very interested in learning about your first year performance at your current law school. The Admissions Committee is committed to enrolling students who will thrive academically at Northwestern Law. Accordingly, we typically offer admission to transfer candidates who have done very well in their 1L coursework. To view data for our Fall 2023 entering transfer class, please see page 4 of Northwestern Law's 2023 ABA Standard 509 Information Report .
Additionally, we seek candidates with specific reasons for transferring to Northwestern who will positively impact the Law School community as students and as alumni. We anticipate those candidates will develop thoughtful applications. We recommend developing a personal statement and/or other materials which are distinct from those you submitted with your 1L law school applications.
Transfer Credit
I will finish my first year at my current law school with 32 credit hours. Will all of those credits transfer to Northwestern?
No. The amount of credit a transfer candidate will receive at Northwestern Law for completed 1L courses will not exceed 28 graded credit hours. Grades below a ‘C’ or its equivalent will not be accepted for transfer credit. Furthermore, because of the differences in curriculum among law schools, students who are admitted on a transfer basis may not receive full credit for courses taken at their original law school. The granting of such credit is at the discretion of Northwestern Law.
When will I learn which 1L courses will transfer to Northwestern Law, and how many hours I will be credited?
Should you be admitted as a transfer student at Northwestern and you commit by submitting an enrollment deposit, we will share your final and official 1L transcripts with our Registrar’s Office. In late July, you will receive a formal notification from the registrar's office detailing which courses will transfer. As we stated in other answers above, eligible transfer students must have earned at least 28 graded credit hours during the first year of law school, and 28 is the maximum number of credit hours that may be transferred to Northwestern Law.
Transfer Student Opportunities
Will I be eligible to participate in programming with the other rising 2Ls at Northwestern Law?
Yes! Transfer students are eligible to participate in most all of the opportunities the Law School offers, including the on-campus interviewing program (OCI), the Bluhm Legal Clinic , and our law journals . As soon as the timing is appropriate, we introduce our admitted transfer students to the faculty and departments who administer these programs.
Speaking of OCI, when does it start for Northwestern Law?
Traditionally, bidding for our fall on-campus interviewing program (OCI) has taken place in early to mid-July, with the actual interviews taking place in early August. Because transfer students are eligible to participate in OCI, we strive to have our transfer class confirmed well before bidding begins. Our goal is to introduce our new transfer students to their career advisers so that together, they may prepare for OCI.
This is why the transfer application period is brief. The Admissions Committee makes certain newly-deposited transfer students meet their career advisers as soon as possible.
We want our newest Northwestern Law students to thoughtfully prepare for OCI. Newly-deposited transfer students write a Northwestern Law resume, develop a plan and bidding strategy for OCI, and meet the OCI deadlines that typically fall in mid-July.
I hold a scholarship at my current law school. Does Northwestern offer scholarships to transfer students?
No. Transfer students are not eligible for scholarship assistance. With that said, a Northwestern Law education is a valuable investment that will provide lifelong returns. The Law School is dedicated to offering a comprehensive financial aid program for students seeking assistance. Transfer student financial aid packages are comprised of loan funding and are designed to enable any admitted transfer student to attend the Law School. Upon admission, we introduce new transfer students to our colleagues at Northwestern University's Chicago Office of Financial Aid.
Visiting Northwestern Law
If I am admitted, may I visit the Law School and speak with someone?
Because of the rapid pace of the transfer admission cycle, we'll arrange for a number of virtual meetings for successful transfer candidates. We are committed to creating opportunities for admitted students to engage with members of our vibrant community. There may be programs such as Transfer Talk / Ask Me Anything/Office Hours for Transfer Students and/or The Northwestern Law Difference information sessions for admitted transfer students. We'll also share helpful information on a regular basis throughout the post-admission period. We strive to provide the level of information that will enable our newest students to make educated decisions when transitioning to Northwestern Law.
Making a Commitment
Is an enrollment deposit required if I am admitted and decide to transfer to Northwestern?
Yes; we require a non-refundable deposit of $750. Because of the relatively short time period for transfer admission discussed above, the window for submitting the deposit may be just a few days in most all cases. As with the deposits for all our incoming students, these funds will be credited to your student account/your tuition bill should you decide to enroll at Northwestern Law.
Will I receive assistance with various logistical matters?
Absolutely. We recognize that you will need to pivot and move to a new law school. For that matter, many of our incoming transfer students relocate to Chicago from locations across the country. We'll provide you with a detailed Pre-Matriculation Guide with instructions and contact information for the appropriate administrators and departments in order to ease your transition to Northwestern Law and/or the city of Chicago. This guide includes information on health insurance, setting up direct deposit for your student loan payments, and other critical logistics associated with transitioning to life at Northwestern Law.
Furthermore, the Law School's Office of Student Services, our Registrar and her Academic Affairs colleagues, and the Career Center team host a day-long Transfer Student Orientation prior to the first day of OCI. This administrative, academic, and social orientation typically occurs at the end of July.
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Graduate and Professional School Application Documents
Each application document takes time so it is important to start well in advance of your application deadlines. Many graduate schools will not consider your application until it is complete. Consult your graduate program deadlines to ensure you are on track.
Most graduate school applications consist of the following components:
- Application form and fee
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Test scores from the GRE, GMAT, or LSAT
- Letters of recommendation are an important component of your overall application. Graduate schools typically request 2-3 letters of recommendation from applicants. The best recommenders are those who know you well and can speak to your professional goals and ability to succeed in graduate work. Typically, recommenders are professors, supervisors, advisers, or TA’s.
- After identifying your recommenders, schedule a time to speak with them in person if possible. In this meeting, discuss your interest and reasons for pursing graduate school, schools and programs you’re considering, and anything you’d like them to highlight in the letter. It can be helpful to bring a copy of your resume or your personal statement for additional information about your qualifications and professional goals. Remember that letters are written on a voluntary basis. If you sense hesitancy or they say no, ask someone else.
- If you are thinking of taking time off prior to graduate school, you should still ask for your letters of recommendation prior to leaving campus, when it is easier to connect with your recommender and you are fresher in their memory. Ask for a ‘general’ letter and keep them on file for future use. Letters of recommendation can also be stored in Interfolio .
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Ensure that you answered the essay questions they provided. Remember to put the "personal" in the personal statement - use a personal stories/anecdotes. DO NOT approach this as a "Statement of Purpose" ( which would be an essay about why you want to pursue a law degree) unless the law school essay prompt indicates to do so. Try to ...
Law School Application Documents. All law school application are submitted through LSAC and will include the following documents: All Post-Secondary Transcripts ( some study abroad exceptions) LSAT or GRE Score (s) Letters of Recommendation. Law schools typically request 2 letters of recommendation from applicants, but may accept up to 4 letters.
Applicants can apply through LSAC starting September 1, 2023. Please check the chart below for application deadlines for the Fall 2021 admissions cycle: Program. Application Deadline. General LLM. January 15, 2024. LLM in International Human Rights (LLM IHR) January 15, 2024. Two-Year JD for International Lawyers.
Furthermore, application checklists are available for each of our degree programs. We strongly encourage all applicants to submit their application materials electronically. Our JD application for the fall 2025 entering class will be available on lsac.org beginning September 1, 2024. JD Fee Waivers for fall 2025 will also be available on ...
☐ Personal Statement Provide a one- to two-page statement on a topic of your choosing. ... ☐ Resume or Curriculum Vitae Written in English The resume you include in your Northwestern Pritzker Law application should include professional, education, and leadership experiences you feel are relevant to your candidacy. ☐ The Law School LLM ...
The LLM Program at Northwestern Pritzker Law enrolls a diverse class of approximately 150 students from countries all over the globe. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach and considers many factors when making admissions decisions, including prior academic performance, English language skills, work experience, academic and career goals, involvement in extracurricular and ...
committees. Additionally, an LLM representative is elected to the SBA board each fall. The SBA is highly committed to serving LLM students during their time at Northwestern. Northwestern Law has more than 40 Student Organizations, all of which are open to international LLM students. Participating in student organizations is an excellent
L APPLICATION MATERIALS☐ Evaluative Interview (invitation only)Admissions interviews for the LLM in Taxation program are by invitation only after an appli. ation has been submitted and reviewed by the Admissions Committee. Interviews provide the Admissions Committee with additional inf. LLM in Taxation Application Checklist. 1.
Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. Chicago, Illinois 580 Followers 529 Discussions. Harvard University - Harvard Law School (HLS) ... LLM Personal Statement - Durham, Bristol, Kent, York Aug 21, 2017 0 Personal Statement Advice Nov 24, 2016 1 Personal statement Feb 03, 2016 1
Part 6: Law school personal statement examples. Below are the law school personal statements produced by the students we've followed throughout this guide, all well another successful personal statement example, all based on the writing process we just walked through. Law school personal statement example 1
In conclusion, writing a compelling personal statement for Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law requires careful planning, research, and attention to detail. By understanding the purpose of the personal statement, researching Northwestern's values and culture, choosing a strong topic and approach, and showcasing your unique strengths ...
Law School Personal Statement Example #1. When I was a child, my neighbors, who had arrived in America from Nepal, often seemed stressed. They argued a lot, struggled for money, and seemed to work all hours of the day. One day, I woke early in the morning to a commotion outside my apartment.
JD, JD-LLM in International Human Rights, and JD-LLM in Taxation Required Application Materials APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION The application for admission should be completed in its entirety to the best of your ability. PERSONAL STATEMENT The personal statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the Admissions Committee.
1) Research the Law School. 2) Outline Your Law School Personal Statement. 3) Write a Compelling Introduction. 4) Showcase Your Achievements and Interests in Law. 5) Articulate Your Motivations for Pursuing Law. 6) Highlight Unique Qualities for the Legal Field. 7) Addressing Potential Weaknesses or Gaps.
ED APPLICATION MATERIALS☐ Application for AdmissionThe application for admission will be available from the International Programs Office after a co. sultation with the Director of International Programs. The application should be. y to the best of your ability.☐ Statement of IntentIn place of a traditional personal statement, you should ...
A good personal statement is likely to lead to the admissions interview, one of the final stages of the LL.M. application. The point is to demonstrate insight into your personality, background and ambition in greater detail that your CV will go into -- but in a way that makes you shine. "It's very important," stresses Tracey Leo of the ...
Here are some tips to help you write a strong personal statement: Explain your motivation: Your personal statement should begin by explaining why you want to pursue an LLM and how it fits into your overall career goals. Provide specific examples and explain how the program will help you achieve your goals. Highlight your qualifications: Use ...
Don't Focus on Your Weaknesses. Your personal statement is a positive essay to convince an admissions committee to admit you to their school. It is not a forum for excuses, explanations, or justifications about why some aspect of your law school application is weaker than it should be. 3. Don't Write Colloquially.
☐ Personal Statement The personal statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the Admissions Committee. You may discuss, among other topics, personal or professional goals, or your personal, academic, or career history. ☐ Resume The resume included in your Northwestern Pritzker Law application should include
Welcome back to the 2Ls and 3Ls, and we're looking forward to meeting the new 1Ls, LLM, and MSL students! We hope everyone had a great summer. This reading list includes books about starting law school and going into a legal career. You can find more information in the library's Law School Survival guide. Learning…
the LLM Program. "Northwestern's LLM Program provided the opportunity to bring my career to the next level. The flexible curriculum with a broad range of practical business law courses allowed me to focus on corporate/M&A-related laws and legal writing. Additionally, I am confident that the strong and close relationship with
PORTAGE, Ind. (AP) — A natural gas leak caused by a construction crew has forced the closure of part of Interstate 94 in northwest Indiana. Traffic in both directions was backed up and diverted Tuesday morning in Portage after workers struck a natural gas main at a business park, The Times of Northwest Indiana reported. A gas and electric utility company was to check for gas readings south ...
The Tax Program at Northwestern is rigorous and well-rounded. Students in the program must take eight required courses (16 credits): two semesters each of the following areas of tax: corporate, international, partnership and property. To complete the degree, students need an additional four courses (8 credits) may choose from more than 20 ...
Big Ten Week 1 college football schedule: Thursday, August 29: All times are Eastern. Howard at Rutgers at 6:00 p.m. on Big Ten Network; North Carolina at Minnesota at 8:00 p.m. on FOX
Officials say Pakistani and Afghan Taliban forces have traded cross-border fire near a key northwestern crossing, killing a woman and two children on the Afghan side. Menu. Menu. ... Accessibility Statement ... Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information Limit Use and Disclosure of Sensitive Personal Information CA Notice of Collection ...
The Report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies on drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this Report by contacting the Northwestern University Police Department Deputy Chief at (847) 491-3256.
It can be helpful to bring a copy of your resume or your personal statement for additional information about your qualifications and professional goals. Remember that letters are written on a voluntary basis. ... Northwestern Career Advancement (NCA) 620 Lincoln St. Evanston, IL 60208; Phone number; 847-491-3700; Email Address; nca@northwestern ...