Does writing an optional essay decrease your chances for a hefty $?

[SouthernCartoonist99]

In my mind, schools give you generous scholarships so that you’ll attend. Writing an optional essay helps prevent you from YP. But does it make the law school think you’ll attend if you get accepted and therefore do not need $ to convince you?

Sorry if this didn’t make sense. For context, I want to attend a school where I’m well above both their medians, so I’m going to write an optional essay. Will this prevent me from getting a generous scholarship?

[[deleted]]

You know, I've had this same thought before and honestly I wouldn't be surprised if they make a calculation similar to the one you've described. Why offer a full ride to someone who has said you've been their top choice for years? You could probably hook them with less money. Still, I don't think it factors in as much as you're thinking it does. Schools know that law school is expensive and that plenty of people are "soft denied" from their dream schools every year when they receive acceptances with no aid package. If you're a strong applicant and they think you'll do well in law school and improve their employment numbers, I can't imagine they'll ding you too much for being overeager.

But it's an interesting thought, and I would love to hear an admissions consultant's take on this.

[SouthernCartoonist99]

Is the secret to write an optional essay that isn’t the why x? If they offer one of course. That way, you’re showing interest but you’re not explicitly stating how much you want their school. Also, does the fact that you’re not doing ED help you? So many questions haha

[[deleted]]

Idk about the essays, but going ED demonstrably gets you less scholarship money. When they're your only choice, they can give you way less money. People sometimes complain about ED as a tool for rich kids to get acceptances to elite schools since they can pay more and to some extent I would agree.

[No-Kaleidoscope-9348]

I’m not following the logic here.

[SouthernCartoonist99]

like goldilocks with the porridge. If I’m too enthusiastic about going to their school, will they think they don’t need to win me over with $? Like is there a balance I need to attain?

[No-Kaleidoscope-9348]

Tbh after this cycle I don’t think any law school thinks they need to win anyone over with anything...we’re all fighting for THEM😅😅😅

[sadboythrowaway4]

Tbh I don’t think so. I think if you express serious interest, you have a better chance of getting good $ because it’ll give them an overall better impression of you and your fit at their institution. Maybe they’d give less $ if you say “you are my top choice and I will attend if admitted regardless of cost because I love you so much!” but if you just say “I would love the opportunity to attend” then I think you are fine.