The key to a strong law school personal statement isn’t just writing well. It’s also about preparation.
You already know law school application time is approaching. So, the smart thing to do is to think ahead and prepare for the most commonly asked questions.
I always tell the students I work with one-on-one to approach the law school personal statement like a job interview. You may not know for sure what you’ll be asked, but you probably have a general idea of the most common questions. Prepared jobseekers take it a step further and brainstorm answers to those questions so they’re confident on the big day.
The same concept applies when you're preparing to write an outstanding law school personal statement.
You can become a prepared student and increase your odds of acceptance by getting ready for essay writing in advance. Even if you get a curveball and a question pops up that you didn’t prepare for exactly, you’ll still be way ahead of your competition.
Common Law School Personal Statement Topics (and Advice for Answering Them)
Over the years, I’ve helped thousands of students write powerful law school personal statements. These students tend to fall into two categories: students with a list of schools they’re considering, and students who are still unsure.
You might think only the students with target schools in mind can get started on their essays early. Not true! I’ve worked with undecided students AND students who have a list of top-choice schools in mind.
Both can use the same essay prep and writing techniques.
Here’s how.
I’ll let you in on a little secret: Most schools will let you write about anything.
No two questions will be exactly the same, but usually, they'll keep it open-ended, allowing you to think about a talent, background, or interest that’s meaningful to you.
These students know that although their LSAT scores are the most important factors, law school personal statements can impress admissions officers. To truly stand out, you want to show how you're a well-rounded student with passions and interests outside of academics.
The students I’ve worked with have had all sorts of influences. It may not always be obvious to them right away, but after we work together one-on-one, the best topic always finds a way to stand out.
Maybe you’re struggling to figure out which passion, interest, or background you should write about. If so, that’s okay! Just get in touch, and we’ll come up with the perfect material for your essay.
Whatever you do, don’t make the mistake of simply listing all your accomplishments.
Instead, choose something unique – something the admissions committee won’t know just by reading the rest of your application. You can reflect on a hobby, an aspect of your personality, or an experience that is genuinely meaningful. An honest, personal statement about who you are will draw them in.
In upcoming articles, I’ll dive a bit deeper into each type of question on its own, so make sure you keep an eye on out.
‘Til next time,
Steve
P.S. In my next article, I’ll give you some mistakes and cliché phrases to avoid at all costs! Even the most honest and captivating essays can get turned away with these mistakes, so be sure to look out for this list!
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