ChemiOppNet2017
Steps to Take in getting into a selective law school
What are the steps to follow after college in getting to a selective law school? #law #school
4 answers
SarahMiller
SarahMiller’s Answer
If you can get into a top college and you do well there, it will help you get into the most selective law schools. For example, according to this site, at Harvard Law, "Students from elite private universities, especially the Ivy League, Stanford, Duke, and Northwestern (among others), do seem to predominate."
The most important factors law school admissions committee consider are your grades and your LSAT scores. As a reference, the 25th to 75th percentile ranges for admission to the class of 2014 at Yale Law were 3.83-3.96 (GPA) and 170-177 (LSAT)
Your grades:
In law school admissions, your grades in college are a very important element. Law school admissions officers know from experience which departments at the top colleges have strong reputations and which courses have high and low curves. According to the Harvard Law School Admissions Office, academic success is important but other qualities that promote vitality, diversity, and excellence in the student body are also valued. As stated on its website, “The committee uses no computational methods for making decisions and no ‘cut-offs’ below which a candidate will not be considered. Each year we admit applicants who believed they didn't have a chance.” You don't have to fit a certain mold to fit in at a top law school.
LSAT
The LSAT is required for admission to all American Bar Association-approved law schools, and is given 4 times a year. Test sites can be filled quickly, especially around big cities, so it's best to register several months in advance of a test date. The optimal time to take the exam is June of the year you apply, but if you take the test in late September/early October that still allows you to see your LSAT score before applying in November.
Extracurricular Activities
Law school admissions committees also consider extracurricular activities when reviewing applications. Things that law schools look for are leadership experience, work experience, research and publications, community activities and public service. However, YOU CANNOT sacrifice grades for extracurricular activities.
MelissaWilliams
MelissaWilliams’s Answer
The top three law schools: Yale, Harvard, Stanford, definitely have a heavy emphasis on grades and LSAT scores. However, Yale is probably a little bit different, and in addition to good grades/scores, they also look closely at whether you have really excelled in something other than school (e.g., significant leadership, entrepreneurship, community engagement).
Check out this post, from Yale admissions.
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Rachel Hass Reinus
Rachel’s Answer
Mackenzie Ward
Mackenzie’s Answer
Academic Excellence:
Maintain a high GPA throughout your undergraduate studies.
Take challenging courses that demonstrate your ability to handle rigorous academic work.
Strongly consider majoring in a field that complements your interest in law and showcases your critical thinking and analytical skills.
LSAT Preparation:
Devote sufficient time to preparing for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), which is a crucial component of your application.
Consider enrolling in an LSAT preparation course, using study guides, and taking practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and questions.
Strong Letters of Recommendation:
Build relationships with professors, employers, or others who can write strong letters of recommendation that speak to your abilities, character, and potential as a law student.
Personal Statement:
Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your passion for law, experiences that led you to pursue a legal career, and what you can contribute to the law school community.
Show how your background, interests, and goals align with the values of the law school.
Resume/CV:
Create a well-organized resume that showcases your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, internships, relevant work experience, and any leadership roles you've held.
Research and Target Schools:
Research selective law schools that align with your interests and goals.
Tailor your application to each school's unique strengths and values to demonstrate your genuine interest in attending.
Apply Early:
Consider applying during the early decision or early action admission rounds, as this can demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the school.
Visit and Connect:
If possible, visit the law schools you're interested in to get a feel for the campus, faculty, and students.
Attend information sessions, webinars, or events hosted by the law schools to show your engagement.
Diversity and Unique Experiences:
Highlight any diverse experiences, perspectives, or backgrounds that can contribute to the law school's diversity and enrich the student body.
Extracurricular Activities:
Participate in extracurricular activities that showcase your leadership, teamwork, and commitment to your community.
Professionalism and Attention to Detail:
Be meticulous in completing your applications. Proofread your personal statement, resume, and any essays to ensure they are error-free and well-written.
Interview (if applicable):
If a law school offers interviews as part of the admissions process, prepare thoroughly and approach the interview professionally.
Application Fee Waivers:
Inquire about application fee waivers if financial constraints are an issue.
Be Realistic:
While aiming for selective law schools is admirable, also apply to a range of schools that match your qualifications and interests to ensure you have options.
Remember that admission to selective law schools is competitive, and many factors come into play. While strong academic credentials are important, a well-rounded application that showcases your unique qualities, experiences, and potential as a law student will greatly enhance your chances of getting accepted.