Aprilaries13 '20–'21 app cycle Class of 2024 class year

This cycle was a whirlwind, and next cycle probably will be too. Here’s my advice on how to navigate it:

Make a list at the beginning of your application process that outlines the kind of lawyer you want to be. Do you picture yourself getting involved in PI work? Do you strive for BL top jobs? I knew I wanted to be a social justice-oriented lawyer dedicated to public interest & serving others. I was lucky to have a super helpful friend in law school who gave me great advice throughout my journey that I constantly looked back on. I knew I wanted to be as debt-averse as possible, given my PI goals, so I didn’t rely on rankings to sway my judgement when they are influenced by BL-specific factors. Overall, it helped guide/center my thoughts on which schools will best serve my dreams/goals.

Speaking of schools, do a LOT of research! Don’t just look at employment outcomes, market portability, bar passage rates, etc. (yes, those do matter to some extent), but also look at how many professors, classes, clinics, etc. are offered for your interests. What is their professor/faculty diversity like? What is their student diversity like? What are the school’s institution politics like? In all, will you feel comfortable, challenged, valued, and supported throughout your law school experience?

Write ALL of the available optional essays. I wrote a personal statement, a diversity statement, a school specific “Why X” statement, and any other optional ones. Show as much of yourself as possible!

Finally, celebrate your victories & accomplishments! This is a stressful and prolonged process and when you’re in the thick of it, it’s easy to dismiss your feats by comparing yourself to others. Your LSAT will NOT matter when you are a 1L, so do your best and take it for what it is, one potential indicator at success acting in conjunction with a lot of other, more important factors. Good luck!