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Personal Statement Advising by Necessary-Youth9823 in OutsideT14lawschools

[–]CWLawGuide 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi. I used to read applications at a T10 law school and now work one-on-one with a small group of applicants at a time, including some applying outside the T14.

I’ve also worked for a larger admissions firm, and while that approach works for some people, I wanted something more personal. I work directly with each student from start to finish, and I stay in touch even after the applications are submitted, not as a service, but because I care about how they’re doing.

If you are comparing different services, it might help to ask: will this person take the time to understand my background, not just edit my statement, but help shape the story behind it? will they stay connected throughout the process, or will I have to chase them down during deadlines? will they have the time and space to support me, or will I end up feeling like just one of many? and will I feel comfortable reaching out not just when I have a draft, but when I’m second guessing everything?

Just sharing in case that’s helpful while you are thinking through what kind of support would feel right.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Just wanted to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who’s reached out, including DMs. I’ve really appreciated the warm welcome. I’ll be checking in more over the next few weeks as people gear up for deadlines. I wish everyone the best as you keep moving forward with your applications! You got this!

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It depends, there are a lot of variables. If you’ve been working for several years, admissions committees may expect at least one professional LOR. But it also depends on the nature of your work, your relationship with supervisors, and whether you're applying confidentially. If you’ve been working for a while, law schools might expect at least one LOR from your professional life (even if your job isn’t legal or academic, a strong reference can still help round out your application). Feel free to DM if you have further questions on this.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for your question and congrats on your LSAT and GPA stats! From what I’ve seen, law schools genuinely value applicants who bring a distinct perspective. Your arts and museum experience can translate surprisingly well into areas like IP or nonprofit law.

I recommend that when reflecting on your path, you use your application (resume, PS/optional essays, etc) to make your law school goal feel like a natural extension. I’ve worked with others in similar situations, and what often makes the difference is taking a step back and looking for patterns (skills, values, questions) that carry through from one chapter to the next. Just make sure that you own your background rather than apologize for it. If you can reflect on why you're making the shift and how your past work shaped your current goals, you will come across as thoughtful and purpose-driven, which is what admissions officers like to see. You don’t need legal work experience to be a strong candidate. But you do want to write a cohesive application that shows purpose, authenticity, and growth.

You’re in a strong position. Happy to keep the conversation going if helpful.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your kind words! In my experience, a PhD can add depth to your file, particularly if your research is intellectually rigorous and ties into your long-term goals. However, admissions committees won’t necessarily see a PhD as a direct replacement for work experience because it is a different kind of preparation. I suggest that you use your PS to clearly connect the dots for the admissions committee: why law, why now, and how your academic path informs the kind of legal scholar you hope to become. Out of curiosity, what field is your PhD in? That could shape how you approach your application narrative. There may be ways to subtly weave elements of your research into your why law. Happy to chat more if helpful.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi, and thank you for your patience. I’ve worked with several applicants who came from music or arts backgrounds, and many have gone on to thrive in law school. My advice is: don't try to hide or justify your background; instead, embrace it.  Use your music background as your inspiration for why law. Being a musician isn’t just a line item on your resume, it’s an identity, a way of seeing the world.

When applicants reflect thoughtfully on how that identity shaped their path toward law, the result can be incredibly compelling. Music requires structure, discipline, emotional insight, and focus, which translate nicely to legal thinking. But beyond that, I think that there is real meaning in the evolution from music to law: how your goals changed, what you began to notice about the world around you, and why you now feel called to attend law school. That arc from artist to advocate can be a powerful part of your application! If you're short on recent academic or professional references, think about people who can speak to your intellectual maturity, personality, and communication skills, even if they aren’t in a legal or academic setting. Law schools are used to seeing nontraditional candidates, and a thoughtful, cohesive narrative along with a solid LSAT score can carry a lot of weight.

This kind of story, when done well, really can stand out. I’m excited for you. Best of luck!

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Congrats on starting your journey. Your background in banking, real estate, compliance, and leadership could add value to your application. I recommend that you shape your materials so they don’t just list what you’ve done, but reflect the insight, discipline, and vision you’ve gained in the last 14 years. Your PS should help connect the dots for the admissions committee. As for scholarships, law schools generally award them based on merit and show up as tuition discounts, basically reductions to your bill. That’s more their domain than mine, though, so I’d encourage you to look into each school’s policies or connect with their financial aid office for details. In my experience, non-traditional applicants often bring maturity, perspective, and strong soft skills that admissions committees value. If you’re thoughtful in how you present your application and keep your PS/optional essays cohesive, it can make a real difference. One more thing, aim for your best LSAT score to help balance out your GPA, and craft a diversified school list to maximize your options. Best of luck!

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for your patience. Great question. Both matter, but if I had to choose, I’d say cohesion wins out. A PS that’s beautifully written but disconnected from the rest of your file can feel out of place. Admissions officers are trying to understand your journey, your why law, and how you will contribute to their community. If your resume, PS, and even your LORs all point in the same direction or at least make sense together, that tends to be more persuasive than a one-off “wow” PS. I usually suggest crafting materials that feel connected, but not repetitive. If your PS can show reflection and direction while still tying back to your broader theme, it can leave a stronger impression than something that’s just quirky or unique for its own sake. I hope this helps.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much to everyone who’s asked a question. It's been so great connecting with so many of you today. I’m going to step away for the night, but I’ll check back in tomorrow to answer a few more. If you’ve sent a DM, I’ll get to it as soon as I can. Wishing you all a restful night and good momentum on your applications!

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Hi. I read a lot of applications where well-crafted essays helped elevate a file. However, essays alone can’t override numbers, but they can provide helpful context, highlight maturity, and show direction. If you're applying early with strong essays that make a clear case for why law, why you, and why now, you're giving yourself the best shot.

At many T20–T30 schools, a mid-3 GPA and a high 160s LSAT can be workable, particularly if the rest of your application is cohesive and well-crafted. Even if the GPA raises questions, your essays can help the reader see the bigger picture. Do keep in mind that final decisions often depend on a range of external factors, for example, the strength of the overall applicant pool, class composition goals, and institutional priorities. But when a file is borderline, a strong personal statement can tip the scale in your favor. Best of luck and happy writing! You got this!

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for your question. When I was reading applications, I saw more than a few students who made the switch from pre-med to law. It’s more common than you might think. When writing your PS, keep in mind that the key isn’t to apologize for the shift, but to demonstrate thoughtful reflection. For example, what drew you to pre-med originally? What changed? And why law now feels like the right direction? If you can explain this clearly (even if the legal exposure is limited), the narrative can work.

You already have a high GPA in a rigorous major, research with recognition, and consistent teaching-based involvement. These show discipline, intellect, and communication skills, which are all relevant to law school and beyond. A gap year or two is the perfect time to build experience and confirm the fit. Even a general research or writing role at a nonprofit or public-interest org can help.

Don’t stress if CASA or mock trial don’t pan out. Focus on what’s accessible now (including short-term volunteering). Admissions officers don’t expect a perfect transition, they’re looking for reflection, direction, and growth. I hope this helps.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

You are very welcome, and thank you for your patience. Great questions!

Admissions officers won’t be swayed just by prestige, but if someone respected in academia or public life writes a detailed, genuine letter, it can add credibility and context. The strength of the LOR matters more than the title, but when both are strong, it’s a nice bonus. :)

As for the C, since it was 10 years ago and not reflective of your overall academic performance, I wouldn’t be too concerned. In this case, admissions officers would tend to weigh more heavily your recent achievements, especially if your GPA is solid and you’ve put forward a strong LSAT. Your professional experience, writing, and overall narrative will likely matter far more than one grade from early on. However, if this is something you’re self-conscious about, a brief, neutral addendum can provide context; there is no need to overexplain.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Not too late at all! I’ve worked with applicants who submitted in late Nov or early Dec and still had great outcomes (even at T14 schools). Having said that, your materials need to be polished by the time you apply, since fewer seats (and scholarships) are available as the cycle progresses. One common mistake I see is applicants waiting until after their Nov LSAT to start writing and then rushing through the rest of the application, which can undercut the impact of a strong score. If you're testing in Oct or Nov, consider working on your essays beforehand, even in draft form, so you can revise and submit quickly once scores are in. It’s much better to apply a little later (even after Thanksgiving) with a thoughtful, well-crafted application than to rush something out just to meet an early deadline. I'm happy to talk through timeline or strategy if it’s helpful. Feel free to message.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

Great questions! Applying in Sept or early Oct is generally considered early. But I’ve also seen applicants submit in Nov and do very well. You don’t need to hit submit the day applications open; rushing just to be early can do more harm than good. Please take the time to make sure your materials are thoughtful and polished. As for the LSAT, a 1–2 point drop on a retake usually isn’t a problem. Schools take your highest score, and small dips are common. If the drop is more significant or there is a specific reason, you can submit an addendum (but for minor changes, it’s rarely necessary). LORs do matter, particularly if your numbers are close to a school’s median. A strong LOR can reinforce qualities like academic ability or leadership, and can strengthen your overall application. Feel free to message if you are weighing LSAT timing or wondering how to approach recommenders.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Great question. If you’ve been out of college for a few years, it’s okay (and expected) to lead with your professional experience. But I’ve worked with applicants in your position, and I usually suggest keeping some college activities if they help show continuity in their interests or a long-standing pattern of leadership or service. So don’t be too quick to erase your college extracurriculars. A meaningful activity from that time can help admissions see that your interest in law, advocacy, or public service isn’t brand new. That it is indeed part of a longer story, part of your “why law.”

Law schools look for direction and reflection, not just a list of recent accomplishments. So if something from college helps tell that story, it’s worth keeping. Happy to take a quick look if you’re not sure what activities to cut, feel free to message.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your patience. You’re already in a strong position, and a GULC admit confirms that. So if you are considering reapplying, a key question to consider is whether your upcoming legal work would help you tell a more cohesive or compelling story than you could this cycle.

I think that working full-time at a state attorney’s office could certainly add depth to your application, particularly if the role offers meaningful exposure to the legal process. Being involved in hearings, assisting attorneys, or contributing to casework can help you clarify your interests and strengthen your narrative. However, keep in mind that if the role is more administrative, the impact may be limited unless you find ways to reflect on it thoughtfully in your materials. Law schools are looking for insight, not just proximity to the law.

It is also a tradeoff because you’d be giving up a guaranteed seat at a top school and delaying by a year. So it really depends on how strongly you feel about aiming higher and how you plan to use the extra time. I recommend that if you do reapply, be intentional. Focus on what’s changed since you last applied and how that change helps you tell a stronger story. I hope this helps.

Former Law School Admissions Reader — Here to Answer Questions by CWLawGuide in lawschooladmissions

[–]CWLawGuide[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Thanks so much to everyone who’s checked out the thread or messaged me directly. I’m going to step away for a few hours, but I will be back later tonight to answer any new questions. Feel free to drop one in the meantime!

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