Law School Applications Rise

How To Finish Strong With Your Law School Applications 

Law school deadlines are approaching and that means it’s time to finalize your applications.
Julie Ketover, a contributor at U.S. News, recently discussed three actions all law applicants should take to ensure they finish their applications strong.
Finalize All Application Materials
With a number of law school deadlines approaching, it’s important to ensure that all materials are finalized. U.S. News has provided the following checklist for applicants to ensure application completion.

  • Register with the Law School Admission Council and the Credential Assembly Service.
  • Submit all applicable transcripts to LSAC and CAS.
  • Take the LSAT or GRE and have a clear understanding of which schools will accept the GRE.
  • Submit at least two letters of recommendation to LSAC and CAS.
  • Downloaded and completed online applications for all law schools you intend to apply to.
  • Answer all application questions.
  • Upload your finalized resume.
  • Upload your finalized personal statement and diversity statement, if applicable, in accordance with individual law school specifications.
  • Upload any finalized addenda or supplemental essays, if applicable, in accordance with individual law school specifications.
  • Request an interview, if that option is available.
  • Submit completed applications.

While it’s crucial to have a clear plan mapped out, Ketover also stresses the importance of reaching out for help if needed.
“Your endeavor to get into law school is too important to languish in procrastination or a state of panic, so ask for help to ensure you finish all remaining application-related tasks,” she says.
Continue Researching The Schools You’ve Applied To After Submitting Apps
Once you’ve submitted your applications, you may feel the need to drop everything. But, Ketover says it’s important to continue researching your target schools after applying.
“Investigate any unique or atypical centers or initiatives the schools may offer that would give you an advantage in a particular practice area,” she says. “Look at how well-staffed the career services offices are and whether counselors are readily available.”
Ketover also advises applicants to reach out to current students and alumni to better understand their experiences. Doing so can help to differentiate schools when it comes time to choose.

Prepare for Interviews

Researching a school extensively can also help you prepare for interviews. Ketover says applicants should review a school’s website and resources, but also review their own application materials.
“Make sure you are intimately familiar with all aspects of your applications so that you are able to answer any related questions,” she says. “Anything in your profile is fair game for interview questions.”
In particular according to Harvard Law’s website, applicants should be ready to address weak areas of a resume. Gaps in job experience and schooling or sudden career changes or grade drops will be highlighted. “Avoid appearing apologetic, defensive or insecure and be willing to talk about these areas briefly and openly.”
Ketover says applicants should prep by also doing a mock interview.
“Practice answering questions fully and authentically without coming across in an overly scripted way,” she says. “Use body language, eye contact and overall self-presentation skills to convey poise and confidence.”
Taking these steps into consideration can ensure that your applications are as strong as they can be. Moreover, they will increase confidence that you’ve done all you can to prep for the next chapter in your career.
Sources: U.S. News, Harvard Law School

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