How to Write a Unique ‘Why This Law School’ Essay

Nearly every law school application includes a ‘Why This Law School’ essay. How you answer this common essay prompt gives admissions officers insight into whether or not you’ll be a good fit at their law school.

Gabriel Kuris, founder of Top Law Coach and contributor at US News, recently offered a few tips and strategies for articulating your interest in a law school without resorting to the typical responses.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

The more you know about a law school, the better equipped you’ll be to answer the ‘Why This Law School’ essay prompt. Kuris recommends attending a law school forum or information session to get to know more about the law school you’re applying to.

“If you have a chance to speak with an admissions officer, you can ask good questions to learn more about how the school sets itself apart from others,” Kuris says. “You may also learn about a law school by talking to current or former students about their experience on campus.”

In addition to attending forum and sessions, take the time to carefully review a law school’s website to understand how a law school positions itself uniquely from other law schools.

“Law school websites are one of the best ways to learn about a school: how it sees itself, what it offers and what’s going on,” Kuris says. “Often, the words and images they use are meticulously crafted to present and promote a distinct identity. Without copying their phrasing word for word, reference these ideas in your essays to reflect an understanding of a school’s unique character while avoiding cliches and generalities.”

FOCUS ON KEY POINTS

Your essay should focus on a few concrete points about the law school rather than broad compliments. Being specific in your essay, Kuris says, can help you differentiate your response from others.

“Try to keep the reasons varied,” Kuris says. “For example, rather than mention three clinics you find interesting, think about other potential points of intersection, like a personal connection or a geographic interest.”

The goal of this essay is to connect a law school and its offering to you and your ambitions.

“Think realistically about your plans for law school and beyond,” Kuris says. “Answer with confidence by researching and identifying a few specific ways in which a school’s unique offerings match with what sets you apart.”

Sources: US News, Spivey Consulting