Aside from your GPA and LSAT scores, one of the most important elements of
the law school application process is your personal statement. The
personal statement is your opportunity to tell law schools what you are
about, why you want to go to law school, and why the application committee
should consider you as an applicant. The following is designed to offer a
few hints to help you in your process of developing a personal statement.
Because law schools may weigh the personal statement heavily in the
application process, it is important to make the statement your very BEST
WORK.
Contents of a Personal Statement
Unlike medical schools, law schools generally do not offer interviews.
Therefore, it is very important to write about information that is not
represented by the mere numbers appearing in your LSADS report. It is a
good idea to write about your various experiences, unique qualities,
motivations, goals, and your leadership activities. You should have three
goals when writing your personal statement: set yourself apart from the
other candidates, engage the reader with your creativity and your
interesting qualities, and keep your statement concise. Also, remember
that the personal statement is your only opportunity to explain any
circumstances that have adversely affected your academic record. Do not
make excuses, but explain the circumstances.
In order to set yourself apart from the other applicants, focus upon your
uniqueness. Discuss your significant college experiences, as well as any
other significant life experiences, that have had an impact on your life.
Explain what you have to offer the law schools by providing specific
examples of your accomplishments. This way you are able to inform the
admissions committee of your great attributes without sounding arrogant.
Also, briefly describe why you chose that particular school. Some people
have no tangible reason for choosing a particular law school, that is not
a problem and do not spend too much time searching for a reason. Also, if
you are a re-entry student, it is always a good idea to discuss your
experiences while out of school. When writing your statement, always keep
your audience in mind.
Your Personal Statement is an Example of Your Writing Ability
Your personal statement exemplifies your writing ability which is a
crucial part of any legal education. For this reason, it is vital that
you think carefully both about what you write in your personal statement,
and about how you write it. Always use active verbs, short sentences, and
concrete understandable words. Many people believe that they will score
more points in their personal statement by using as many wherefores,
therefores, whereases, and henceforths as they can. This belief is false!
Follow a strong and concise format, use concrete words, and do not dilute
your paper with too many activities or experiences.
If you have numerous experiences, attach a resume to the application and
only discuss those that are significant to you. Avoid any grammatical
errors such as "typos," inaccurate margins, spelling errors, etc. Also,
the tone of your statement is important and do not write arrogantly. Most
law schools ask for personal statements to be between 2 to 3 pages in
length, do not exceed the particular law school's requested length. If
you would like to have your statement critiqued by an advisor, please make
an appointment by calling (605-677-5307) or stopping by the Career
Development Center in the Burr House.
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