Understanding the Personal Statement
Each law school sets its own directions for the personal statement, so instructions and prompts will vary. Be sure to carefully read each school’s requirements and tailor your statement accordingly.
- Use the personal statement to showcase what you want law schools to understand about you that isn’t clear from the rest of your application.
- This is your chance to connect your unique experiences, interests, and qualities into a coherent narrative.
- Admissions committees value honest reflections on actual experiences and prior accomplishments more than predictions about your future career.
Tips for Writing Your Statement
- Be brief, factual, and organized in telling your story.
- Focus as much on how you tell your story as on what you say.
- Support your writing with concrete examples from your life and experiences.
- If the application offers “optional” essays, consider completing them—many schools use them to gauge your sincere interest in their program.
Getting Feedback
- Ask people who know you well to review your statement for accuracy and authenticity.
- Also seek feedback from people who do not know you for a more objective perspective.
- The Sweetland Center for Writing (Peer Advisors) and your college's Pre-Law advisor could also provide opportunities for review and feedback.
Resources for Applicants
- Use this self-reflection exercise to help generate ideas for your law school personal statement, or as a starting point for brainstorming your application essay(s).