Why Are Law Schools Seeing A Surge In Applicants?

University of Chicago Law School

What UChicago Law Looks For In Applicants

UChicago Law looks for “students who will take their legal education seriously without taking themselves too seriously” according to the school website.

Its most recent entering class is comprised of research assistants, published authors, musicians, and even a beatboxer. Business Insider recently spoke to the law school’s students and dean of admissions, who explained how the interview and personal statement are key to gaining admission into the prestigious law school.

MAKE YOUR PERSONAL STATEMENT, PERSONAL

A strong personal statement should highlight your personal narrative in a compelling manner.

Experts say the UChicago personal statement should be just that – personal.

“We request a personal statement; it is not a statement of purpose,” the law school states on its website. “You are welcome to discuss your reasons for applying to law school, but please make sure we will still get to know you as an individual. Law schools have different views on this topic, so please consult each school to which you are applying.”

Interview Prep & Practice

When it comes to the UChicago interview, experts recommend that applicants do their research on specifics about the school’s offering.

“The point of these interviews is to get to know a student more beyond the application, or if we have a question on their application that we want to get further information on,” Ann Perry, associate dean of admissions, tells Business Insider.

Some questions that have been asked in UChicago interviews, according to 7Sage Admissions, include:

  • “If you could have a conversation with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be and what would you talk to them about?”
  • “Tell me about a book you’re reading or have read recently that changed your perspective?”
  • “Which particular clinics are you interested in?”

As interviews are done virtually, experts recommend applicants to practice a run-through beforehand.

“Let your natural personality shine through,” Daniel Mozley, a first-year student at UChicago Law, tells Business Insider. “A friend can tell you if you’re too stiff or too casual, or if you have a weird camera angle.”

Sources: Business Insider, UChicago Law, UChicago Law, 7Sage Admissions

 

 

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