Thucath '22–'23 app cycle Class of 2026 class year

Macro thoughts:
So clearly I applied to way too many schools. I’m very debt averse and wouldn’t pay sticker anywhere. My cycle was a rollercoaster as I did not hit 170 until November, a year after I started studying with PS trilogy, 7sage, and RC Hero. I planned on applying with 163 from June and August, but was averaging 170 in PTs and really wanted to hit it. I added ND, UMinn, UT, NW, UMich, Fordham, and BC after hitting 170. I feel like I did 2 cycles in 1. Goal is FC -> BL.

NDLS Specific tips:
-“Why ND” is not optional. If you are serious about ND, please write it. They care more than other schools. They don’t want people simply chasing their employment outcomes who don’t care about ND’s culture. (Obviously this advice matters more to people at or around median.)
-Very few applicants write the DKL essay per an admissions officer. It is not, as some say, designed to be a place to intsert a diversity/adversity addendum. If you write it and make it specific to NDLS, it absolutely separates you from others and increases your odds of an A.
-Visiting, even virtually, and showing genuine enthusiasm helps the process go faster. They are very protective of their culture. (And they should be, it’s a very special place. If you can visit, I highly recommend it.)