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

Wrote optional essays for Michigan, Penn, and Stanford (ironically, the schools I didn’t get into lol). I did not write any LOCIs and was rejected from all my waitlists.

PS was on my personal growth through taking on a hobby-related challenge. I brought in my legal work experience at the end, but probably could have done a better job explaining “why law”.
I wish I had left more time for optional essays/diversity statements and worked a little more on my resume. I don’t think I had a strong/cohesive “narrative” and I should have given it more thought.

For most schools, I don’t think application timing made much of a difference, but for Duke, I think it did. If Duke is your top choice, apply as soon as you can. This year, it looks like acceptances steeply dropped off after mid-December submission dates.

Overall, I feel like my cycle went as expected based on my stats, but we’ll know for sure when the new medians come out. GPA and LSAT inflation has made this process less predictable than before. Try to take care of yourself and be kind to others through this process! <3