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

I’m several years out of undergrad and went into this process knowing next to nothing. I hope some of this can be of use to someone.

My softs don’t lend themselves to a very cohesive “why law,” and I think if I’d addressed that more convincingly in my personal statement I might have performed better. I could’ve used a few more sets of eyes for proofreading, too.

The LSA Reddit and other internet resources were okay, but I connected with the most helpful folks through LSD chat. Unfortunately this was a bit later in the cycle, and I’d applied too early to benefit from their advice.

Given what I’ve seen this cycle, I don’t think it was necessary to send most of my apps as early as I did. I’d say if you have everything in by Thanksgiving you’re still ahead of the curve.

Other possibly helpful stuff:

—Wrote what I believed to be a very strong Why UChicago (alas, no interview), and the Stanford music supplemental. That was it as far as optionals; obviously not ideal, and I’d recommend writing as many of those as you have strong narratives for.

—After not hearing anything from Michigan since 9/20, I sent a LOCI on January 3 and was rejected on January 6. Not sure if that was what kicked me off the WL, but just a data point.

—Had a pretty lackluster group interview for Georgetown (nobody’s fault, just a quiet bunch); was placed on the preferred WL.

—Had what I thought was a fantastic interview with WashU and was waitlisted several months later (received two HTEs in the meantime, which I appreciated).

—Held at NYU in January.

—Radio silence from UMN for 6 months and counting. Assuming this will result in a WL at best. Follow-up email sent 3/22/23. Surprised by this A!

I’ll give you the advice I completely ignored, which is to try not to take your outcomes personally. You’re so much more than stats and a resume.

I wish you the best! 🧀