Cycle Recap for the 24-25 Admissions Cycle

TL;DR: Military work experience was a major boost. Targeted state schools to maximize partial veterans’ benefits. Thrilled to be attending UVA - was my dream from the beginning and so thankful it worked out.

Preparation
Studied for the LSAT on and off for two years, taking it twice post-LG removal. Worked on my personal statement for a year and requested LORs the spring before applying. Attended LSAC Forums (virtual one cycle early, in-person during my cycle), which helped refine my school list. Had a Service to School mentor—highly recommend for veterans. Most materials were ready by late September, but I waited until November for my academic LOR to submit applications.

Personal Statement- : Built a clear “why law” narrative using undergrad and professional experiences. Ensured every word had purpose. Sought feedback from as many trusted sources as possible while maintaining personality.
Letters of Recommendation- : Sent three where possible: professor, current boss, and a military mentor. Provided the Yale LOR tip sheet, my resume, PS draft, and an individualized document highlighting key experiences with each of them.

School Selection & Notes
Exited the military before full Post-9/11 GI Bill eligibility, so focused on state schools for better financial efficiency. Applied to some private schools to test for scholarships, gauge market value, and have reconsideration leverage. Target schools: UVA, Michigan, UCLA, Texas. Completed nearly all optional essays.

(No HYS) – Knew I wouldn’t receive need-based aid, so didn’t apply despite my ego being curious. Focused my energy elsewhere and glad I did.

Penn – Had no expectations but happy my “Core Strengths” essay resonated. Surprised by the admission and scholarship offers.

UVA – Great pre-application interactions. Enjoyed the conversational interview. Scholarship waiting period was stressful, but it remained my top choice.

Michigan – Wish I had applied earlier. Sent an employment update before the WL decision.

UCLA – Attended virtual events. No interview. Dean Schwartz was approachable pre and post application.

Georgetown – Group interview was fine but limited speaking time. Had to request merit scholarship consideration form.

Texas – Recorded interview was stressful. Quick scholarship turnaround. Staff was great.

WashU – Fast decision. Seeing their LSAT median rise made their confidence in me reassuring.

Vandy – Applied for proximity to family. No alumni interview slots left. Withdrew once I had other solid and semi-local options.

USC – Applied mainly to leverage with UCLA. Withdrew once I hit UCLA’s military benefit cap.

GMU – Initially seemed like a strong possibility. Staff was personable—sent a very kind and hand-signed birthday card.

ASU – First test submission before my final LOR. Strong contender after my first LSAT.

Decision Time
Penn and Georgetown had great offers, but private schools would mean leaving too much veteran funding on the table. WashU was tuition-neutral post-GI Bill, but I had better culture and employment fits.

Finalists:
UVA: 95% tuition covered (no reconsideration available)UCLA: 100% tuition covered (no excess scholarship refunds)Texas: 100% tuition covered + $10-20K refund for housing stipend
UCLA and Texas had appeal due to location, climate, and school-specific strengths. But UVA had the best combination of outcomes, community, and cost of living. Loans for non-tuition expenses were inevitable at any school, but UVA felt like the best fit both during and after law school.

Final Musings
This cycle was chaos, and I feel incredibly fortunate. Military experience was crucial for my resume, essays, and interviews. A higher LSAT retake score than any of my practice tests also helped. Regardless of background, constructing a clear narrative, showing confidence, and demonstrating professional skills can make a huge difference.

N=1 advice:
Study longer for the LSAT than you think you need.- Edit your PS ruthlessly.

• Highlight what makes you unique outside of school and work.
• Apply broadly.

And, of course—Go Hoos!