General-Iroh '22–'23 app cycle Class of 2026 class year

Initial reflections: I think that HYS outcomes are very difficult to predict. Others felt a bit more straightforward. For me, Harvard interview was more direct, more formal, and less friendly than the Chicago interview. For HLS, I would prepare thoroughly and be prepared to give a strong “why law school?” answer which is tied directly to your resume and work experience. My answer was pretty “meh”. Chicago’s interview was more conversational, friendly, and casual with more general questions. But that might not be a universal experience.

Stanford got back to me very late. I sent them a LOCI in early April when I hadn’t heard back yet and knew that the second review was starting. I told a personal story which showed a strong Why Stanford that I hadn’t included in my original application. Got the call three weeks later, and we spoke about that story. That says to me that Stanford is also an outcome you can’t bank on - for me it was a particular circumstance that helped get me over the line. Could have gone either way.

No thoughts on Yale, other than stating very clearly that you are interested in being an academic and explaining your research interests if that sounds like a viable path for you. Those I know who were accepted seem to have taken that route.

MOST IMPORTANT TAKEAWAY: Don’t let this process consume who you are for an entire year (or more)! I certainly was not expecting how much mental energy this would take throughout the year. It’s very tempting to let it become your entire personality. Once I had committed to a school, it was like taking a breath of fresh air and remembering who I was again. This whole process convinces you that your life’s value comes from what school you go to, when the truth is that virtually no one outside of r/lawadmissions has any idea what the difference between any of these schools are. Keep your vision close, and remember that you can make that vision a reality no matter where you go.

I’m not sure who will read this, but if you are, take a deep breath and believe that you will craft a happy and meaningful life – and it will have nothing to do with this application process. You’re already on the way.