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Question
#10:
How
do I persuade the admissions decision makers in my application?
Consider
preparing your application with software such as Law Services'
LSACD, which automates a portion of the process, and provides
you with a professional, finished product. See www.lsac.org
to get more information on their products.
Purchase
and read "The Elements of Style", by Strunk and
White, if you don't already have a copy. This slim volume
is the best compilation on effective writing that I've ever
seen. Employ in particular the concept of omitting needless
words. You want your writing to be concise, vivid and effective,
with every word contributing to the result you desire.
The
goal in your personal statement is an interesting story that
creates an immediate positive mental image of you. Don't waste
the opportunity of the personal statement to attempt to explain
away any negative factors. Plan to test your personal statement
on friends, family and your prelaw advisor. Winning formulas
are as varied as each individual. Do not follow the well-worn
path of "Why I Want to Go to Law School." Remember
that the Admissions reviewers have read literally thousands
of such personal statements. Obviously, grammar and spelling
must be impeccable.
Follow
the directions carefully that each school provides. Aim for
the earliest point in the admissions cycle. The optimal timeframe
typically for application submission is between Halloween
and Thanksgiving. Understand each school's cycle. Seek to
be there early in line for admission consideration.
Tell
your top school that it is your first choice and that you
will definitely attend if offered admission (if true). You
cannot ethically make this commitment to any other school.
Be
scrupulously honest in all your application work. Your future
reputation as a lawyer includes what you've said in your law
school applications. If you have any doubts on this issue,
meet with your prelaw advisor.
Consider
the use of brief addendums to provide any additional information
necessary to persuade the Admissions Committee. Consult with
your prelaw advisor before employing this approach, as it
is sometimes overused.
Consider
as well providing a resume and an additional recommendation
beyond the minimum number required. These documents are likely
to at least be glanced at by the Admissions Committee.
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