peachrings '24–'25 app cycle Class of 2028 class year

Twas a rough cycle for splitters, and my application timing definitely did not help, but I am overall incredibly thrilled with my outcomes! I will most likely (barring a miracle from Stanford) be attending Mich starting next fall.

Advice for future splitters (and other applicants too):
Start your written materials as early as you can! Everyone says to apply early, but that’s easier said than done when your written materials need to be excellent. I found writing essays considerably harder than studying for the LSAT, despite being a very speedy and strong writer. The revision process will also take a lot longer than you think, especially if you are getting feedback from friends/busy mentors. Please please start early!!
Talk to current students (especially if that school wants a Why X). I didn’t do this but really wished I did when it was time to write Why Xs.
Be thoughtful. Your essays should demonstrate how you think and what you think about. Adcomms don’t expect you to be the most interesting or accomplished person in the world, they want to see that you are curious, intelligent, and self-aware. Being able to demonstrate that in your writing is hard and will put you above a lot of other applicants.
Write a GPA addendum even if you don’t have a super compelling reason (if your GPA is low enough). Adcomms will wonder why you got the grades you did and it’s better to answer that question for them. Keep it as short as possible and explain why whatever caused those grades then will not affect you in law school.
Retake if you know you can score better. I retook a 172 to get my 178 because I knew that WashU was my best bet. With a 172 I would not have gotten in, with a 178 I could have attended for nearly free. If you’re shooting for the T14 with a sub 25ths GPA you should do whatever you can to be above the LSAT median.

Good luck!