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Who are McGeorge students? Highly intelligent, hardworking and fun-loving people like you! Our student body is increasingly diverse and engaged, bringing to the McGeorge community a host of perspectives and talents from a variety of undergraduate programs and careers from around the globe.

• Class Profile Fact Sheet (pdf)

Fall 2023 Class Profile 1

1 Note: Data as of Aug. 14, 2023

McGeorge Admissions Email | 916.739.7105

McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific

The information on this page was provided by the law school.

Official Guide to ABA-Approved JD Programs

McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific is located in Sacramento, California, capital of the nation’s most populous state and one of the world’s leading economies. The school is a member of the Association of American Law Schools, is accredited by the American Bar Association, and has a chapter of the Order of the Coif.

Full-time and part-time programs provide the flexibility to earn a JD degree in two and a half, three, four, or five years of study. Six hundred students pursue a JD, LLM, JSD, MPP, or MPA on a 13-acre campus that includes several other graduate programs students. JD students may pursue a joint JD/MPP or JD/MPA degree. McGeorge is the only law school in the country to offer degrees in both law and policy. The JD/MBA is offered in conjunction with our main campus in Stockton, California. The school’s reputation for educating well-prepared, practice-ready lawyers grows from the vitality of students and faculty working together. The diversity of the student body is reflected in the 150 or more colleges and universities that students attended as undergraduates, the 50 or more major fields of study, the range in years from age 22 to over 60, and the gender and ethnic diversity represented annually by students from a wide range of ethnic and cultural heritages.

Library and Physical Facilities

The Gordon D. Schaber Law Library is a recently renovated, comprehensive legal research facility that contains comfortable student study areas, a computer lab, group-study rooms, attractive event venues, and wireless Internet capabilities.

The curriculum at McGeorge is designed to develop highly skilled professionals who are prepared for the rapidly changing legal market. A legal education at McGeorge will push you academically within a supportive, empathetic environment where faculty and staff are invested in your personal success. The focus of the first year is on building a solid foundation in the theory of law and mastering legal research and writing. All first-year students have a small-group classroom experience in Global Lawyering Skills I, which provides the opportunity to work intensively with a professor on analytical and advocacy skills. First-year students also take a spring legal profession class where they begin to shape their professional identity and bring their professional goals into focus. Upper-division students choose among a broad array of elective courses where they get to focus on a more specialized path of study. Students may choose to add a concentration, or to pursue competition teams, law journals, externships, or legal clinics.

Experiential Learning

McGeorge guarantees every student two clinic or externship experiences as part of its curriculum.

• Clinical Education:  Our commitment to experiential learning opportunities for students is woven into our culture. Every McGeorge student must complete at least two clinics and/or externships. McGeorge’s pioneering legal clinics deliver quality pro bono representation to underserved community members, and students routinely earn impressive victories on behalf of their clients. Clinic opportunities include Elder and Health Law, Federal Defender, Immigration Law, Legislative and Public Policy, the Prisoner Civil Rights Mediation Clinic, and the Small Business Clinic.
• Competition Teams:  The award-winning McGeorge Moot Court, Mock Trial, and Alternative Dispute Resolution Competition Programs provide numerous opportunities for students to expand their courtroom experience, improve trial and appellate advocacy skills, and refine their skills in negotiation and arbitration. Students receive coaching and are able to test their abilities in competitions across the nation and around the world in such diverse subject areas as international law, constitutional law, criminal procedure, intellectual property, and more.
• Externships:  Why wait to learn how to practice law until after graduation? McGeorge’s externships let you earn law school credit while performing supervised legal work at nearly 100 government-approved agencies, courts, nonprofit entities, and a limited number of for-profit entities. Students have the opportunity to apply legal theory and academic principles to solve legal problems and controversies; develop legal research, writing, negotiation, and interviewing skills; experience how ethical standards inform the practice of law; explore career interests in a variety of legal settings; and build a professional network.
• Legal Research and Writing:  McGeorge’s distinctive two-year Global Lawyering Skills (GLS) (four courses) intensive legal writing program is designed to enhance and deepen the students’ experience in research, writing, and oral advocacy and produce skilled, practice-ready graduates. This required, four-semester program provides students with numerous simulations and hands-on, real-world learning opportunities.
• Experiential Mentoring:  Every entering McGeorge student selects a mentor, from McGeorge’s pool of nearly 600 alumni mentors, who has expertise in an area of law of interest to the student. Mentors provide career advice, bring mentees to networking events, and allow mentees to watch them in action as they practice in their fields of expertise. Students who are first in their families to attend college can select a mentor who has a similar background.

Certificates of Concentration

• Business:  The demands and complexities of a global economy require a strong basis in business law. This concentration is for students interested in pursuing a general business law practice, or for those wanting to specialize in entertainment law, employment law, banking law, real estate law, or other types of business law. Students with an interest in Intellectual Property Law or Tax Law can select an emphasis in Intellectual Property or Tax and complete many of the business concentration requirements by taking intellectual property or tax courses respectively.
• Capital Lawyering:  Students complete courses designed to train them to work in and around the California legislature in committees; in private firms that specialize in political law or lobbying; in nonprofit agencies that engage in issue advocacy; in local, state, and federal agencies; and in law firms with regulatory practices in areas such as communications, energy, the environment, health, and employment. The curriculum ensures that students graduate with real-life experience and on-the-job contacts. Students also participate in Capital Center student groups, attend events, and network with the many Capital Alumni Chapter members in California; Washington, DC; Nevada; and elsewhere. Students with an interest in Health Law can select an emphasis in this area of law and complete several of the concentration requirements by taking health law courses.
• International:  Globalization is transforming the practice of law. This concentration offers a strong foundation for a broad array of careers, whether your interests draw you toward public service or the private sector, to work abroad or in California, to litigation, transactions, or a legislative/regulatory practice. Students graduate with a solid grounding in public and private international law, in-depth exposure to at least one specialized doctrinal area, and advanced skills training that can help provide a bridge to practice.
• Trial & Appellate Advocacy:  Students receive specialized, practical training to prepare for careers in litigation, civil and/or criminal trial and appellate work, or dispute resolution. A wide range of courses enables students to learn and demonstrate competencies in writing, appellate and trial advocacy, evidence, trial preparation and conduct, alternative dispute resolution, negotiation, and counseling and representation of clients.
• Water and Environmental:  The field of water and environmental law lies at the intersection of environmental responsibility and society’s use of and impact on the natural world. This concentration provides students with the knowledge they need for successful careers in water and environmental law.

Student Activities

Over 40 professional, social, cultural, and academic student organizations at McGeorge represent the breadth of interests and diversity of the student community. Students manage, edit, and write for the  University of the Pacific Law Review , and competition teams compete with notable success in a wide range of trial, appellate, and dispute-resolution competitions on the regional and national levels.

McGeorge has furnished and unfurnished one- and two-bedroom units, studios, and townhouses to accommodate up to 160 tenants. Early application is advised. The campus full-time housing coordinator may also suggest off-campus accommodations that are readily available in Sacramento.

Admission and Financial Aid

Admission is competitive and requires at least a bachelor’s degree or senior standing from an accredited college or university. An applicant’s undergraduate record and LSAT results are important factors in the JD admission decision process. When there are multiple LSAT scores, all scores are considered when evaluating the application for admission. Other factors considered are grade patterns or trends, employment and career accomplishments, graduate work, and extracurricular or community activities. Ethnic, cultural, geographic, and experiential backgrounds that contribute to student-body diversity are valued. Competitive merit- and need-based financial aid programs provide scholarship awards and grants to entering and advanced students. A knowledgeable financial aid staff provides counseling to assist students in minimizing student loan indebtedness. The Financial Aid Office is committed to providing students with financial aid resources to meet the educational costs of pursuing their legal careers. Our goal is to ensure excellent customer service with accurate and timely delivery of financial aid funds.

Career Services

The McGeorge Career Development Office (CDO) offers students and alumni a full range of advising and employment resource services, including individualized review of application materials, mock interviews, support with career planning, job-search strategizing, and an extensive library of resource materials. The CDO also hosts law firms, government agencies, and businesses for on-campus interviews and maintains up-to-date listings of specific employment opportunities for part-time, summer, and postgraduate positions. The CDO staff is available to help students identify their interests and introduce them to a vast array of career and networking opportunities. McGeorge faculty and alumni play a major role in our programs, sharing their experiences and offering advice to students seeking career opportunities in their fields of expertise. Alumni participate in our Day-in-the-Life speaker series, our robust Alumni Mentor Network Program, mock interview and résumé review programs, and numerous networking events.

Admitted Applicant Profile

25-75% ugpa range at mcgeorge:.

3.01 to 3.65

25-75% LSAT Score Range at McGeorge:

Contact Information

MSL & LLM FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MSL degree?

The MSL is a Master of Science in Law. The degree is innovative and versatile and meant for professionals who seek the benefits of advanced training in legal reasoning and analysis. The degree enhances many professions and is ideal for business executives, entrepreneurs, policymakers, human resource and other professionals in today’s economy. With so many businesses and industries being impacted by constantly changing laws and regulations, having knowledge and training in legal analysis can be advantageous in dealing with those everyday law-related issues.

What can I do with an MSL degree?

Because the law intersects with every industry in one way or another, it is very likely there is some aspect of your current role that could be enhanced with a MSL degree. Our MSL degree can also open career opportunities by allowing you to pivot your career toward the legal aspects of your field. For example, someone working in government affairs may take courses in lobbying, election law, and statutory interpretation. Individuals working with water and environmental issues may take courses in water resources law, environmental law, and water and environmental justice. Through our MSL coursework, you’ll be better equipped to:

• Review and understand agreements such as contracts 
• Review and draft proposed local, state, and federal laws and regulations 
• Understand and comply with regulatory requirements for specific industries
• Work with attorneys and compliance officers

For more information about specific job titles and how an MSL degree can help your career, see MSL Career Outcomes .

What can I expect in terms of workload?

Students will take six units in each semester. The general rule of thumb is that for every hour you spend in the “classroom,” you can expect another 1.5 – 3 hours of additional studying.

How many courses must I complete in order to earn the either the Master of Water & Environmental Law or the Master of Government Law & Policy degree?

Students must complete 26 credits. Please refer to the program’s curriculum web page for a complete list of required and elective courses.

What is required as part of the application?

An application containing the following items is required: Official transcripts for all universities and colleges that you have attended, a resume or curriculum vitae, a personal statement, a writing sample, and one (required) or two (preferred) letters of recommendation. For more information, see  MSL Admission .

What is an LLM degree?

The LLM is an internationally recognized post-Juris Doctor (JD) law degree, most commonly sought by legal professionals interested in specializing in a specific area of law. LLM is the abbreviation for Legum Magister, which means Master of Laws.

What will my diploma read?

The diploma awarded is a Master of Laws degree with a concentration in Water & Environmental Law.

The time required for each course depends on the units awarded for the course. For each unit of credit, a student can expect to spend two hours reading course text/materials, and an additional hour of time engaged in interactive course activities–i.e., time spent viewing lectures, listening to presentations, participating in discussion, completing assignments, and taking quizzes. Most courses in the McGeorge online program are three units; in a 3-unit class, students should expect to spend an average of six hours reading and three hours engaged in interactive learning, for an average of 9 hours per week per course. Students will typically take two courses per semester, requiring an average of 18 hours on a weekly basis.

How many courses must I complete in order to earn LLM in Water & Environmental Law degree?

Students must complete 24 credits to earn the LLM.

An application containing the following items is required: Official transcripts for all universities and colleges that you have attended, a resume or curriculum vitae, a personal statement, a writing sample, and one (required) or two (preferred) letters of recommendation. For more information, see  LLM Admission .

General FAQ

Who teaches the classes?

The classes are taught by a combination of McGeorge’s full-time faculty members and highly qualified adjunct instructors. Many of the adjunct instructors are practitioners in the fields of water law and environmental law. We encourage you to view the faculty bios and send us an email at [email protected] if you would like to connect with a McGeorge professor.

How are admissions decisions communicated to applicants?

All decisions will be communicated to applicants via email. If you are admitted, a formal letter will be attached to the email.

If I am accepted, how much time will I have to decide whether to enroll or not?

Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis with a commitment required by April 1 (Fall start) or November 1 (Spring start). The sooner you apply, the longer span of time you will have to make a decision that will work best for you. If an applicant submits their application materials after these dates, they will have two weeks from the time a decision is rendered to pay a seat deposit and commit to the program. Extensions to this two-week rule may be granted on a case-by-case basis.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, students may be eligible for financial aid. Please contact our Financial Aid office at 916.739.7158 or [email protected] . We also offer a Dean’s Scholarship to highly qualified applicants.

Individuals who have earned educational benefits through the Veterans Administration can use their benefits at McGeorge. You are responsible for confirming your eligibility with the VA. McGeorge is a 100% Yellow Ribbon matching institution.

Is it possible for my employer to cover all or part of the tuition?

Applicants should check with their individual employers. Of the companies that do assist with tuition payments, some have a limit on the amount of tuition that can be covered in any given year. We encourage you to reach out to your Human Resources department to see if this benefit is available to you.

When do classes begin?

Students may begin the online program in either the Fall (August) or Spring (January) semester. The exact date that the academic terms begin varies from year to year so please reference the academic calendar. 

Do I need to participate in an orientation?

An online orientation program is required for all program participants. Orientation will be available the week before the start of each semester.

How are the online courses organized? Are they self-paced?

Most courses within McGeorge online graduate programs are offered on a semester-long basis, with weekly modules. Although format may vary depending on the nature of the course, in most courses students should expect to be assigned new topics each week, with associated reading, lecture, discussion, exercises, quizzes, and other interactive activities. Individual topics that include a specific group of reading assignments, lectures, discussion, and exercises are called modules. Most courses will release new modules each Monday and allow one week for completion.

Within the weekly modules, most McGeorge online courses will be primarily asynchronous. This means that students do not necessarily need to be online at the same time, and will have the flexibility to complete module activities at a time convenient to their schedules, as long as they complete the activities by the assigned, typically weekly, deadline. Some assignments, such as weekly discussion, may have mid-week deadlines. Some papers or projects may be assigned over several weeks or the course of a semester. To facilitate planning, all deadlines will be announced in the syllabus prior to the beginning of a course.

For more information, see The Online Experience .

What are the technical requirements for the online programs?

Students need to have regular and reliable access to a computer and high-speed Internet. Note that mobile and tablet devices will not provide full access; students will need a laptop or desktop computer with a webcam.

Are courses offered during the summer?

There will be two units available over the summer. One of these units will have an optional residential requirement. While this is not required, we highly recommend your participation in the option residential opportunity.

Is there a residential component?

There is no requirement for an online student to come to our Sacramento campus. However, we highly recommend students to participate in the 1-unit hybrid summer course or come to campus for additional learning opportunities.

I live in a state outside of California, can I apply?

Per the Department of Education, we must be authorized to educate students in any particular state, therefore only students from pre-authorized states may participate in this program. If your state is not on the list below, please send us an email so that we are aware of interest from your state, for planning purposes. States where McGeorge School of Law has obtained state authorization:

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wyoming.

As an online student, can I participate in on-campus events?

Yes – you are a part of our community and as such we invite (and encourage) you to participate in any way that is meaningful for you. Students will be alerted to opportunities to participate in on-campus events through live-streaming and similar technology. If you are able to visit campus, we are happy to provide a campus tour, to introduce you to faculty, to connect with professionals in your area of concentration, and to participate in academic and social events. If you are planning a visit, we encourage you to contact Graduate Law Programs at [email protected] in advance so that we can help make your stay meaningful and rewarding.

Home » Law Schools » 3rd and 4th Tier Profiles »

University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law

Located in Sacramento, California, the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law has plenty to offer. The academic program is solid, and the state-capital location presents invaluable opportunities for law students. Tuition is pricy, however, relative to starting salaries, and Pacific graduates are likely to be limited in their job search.

• 2.1 Statistics
• 2.2 Application Deadline
• 2.3 How to Apply
• 2.4 Application Requirements
• 2.5 Personal Statement
• 2.7 Letters of Recommendation
• 2.8 Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and LSAT
• 2.9 Transcript
• 3.2 Scholarships
• 4 Employment Prospects and Bar Passage
• 5.1 Legal Clinics
• 5.2 Externships
• 5.3 The Mock Trial Competition Team Program
• 5.4 Moot Court
• 6 Quality of Life
• 8 Contact Information
• 10 Forum and Discussion
• 11 Reference

Located in the state capital of Sacramento, California, McGeorge School of Law has been an internationally renowned leader in legal education since its founding in 1924. Its commitment to public law, international law, and advocacy have earned an unmatched reputation for excellence.

The school's ability to offer degrees across various disciplines makes it an ideal choice for students seeking to develop a well-rounded skillset while specializing in one area. McGeorge's courses allow students to gain knowledge and practical experience in areas ranging from public law and international law to professional and clinical practice.

McGeorge School of Law is also dedicated to community service, preparing students to give back to their communities through public service projects and pro bono work. This commitment to social responsibility is reflected in its rigorous curriculum and extensive academic resources, providing students with the tools they need to become ethical, successful lawyers.

Overall, McGeorge School of Law offers a unique learning experience that combines theoretical and practical legal knowledge with a commitment to service and excellence. With its dynamic faculty, innovative curriculum, and opportunities for hands-on experience, the school is committed to helping students reach their highest potential.

At the University of the Pacific (Mcgeorge) School of Law, 942 applicants applied for admission to the 2022 class. Of those applicants, 505 were offered admission. With the 1L class size set at 170, 30.50% of those offered admission decided to attend the university.

The median LSAT score and GPA of those accepted were 155 and 3.44, respectively. The 25th percentile LSAT was 152, and the 75th percentile was 157; likewise, the 25th percentile GPA was 3.03, and the 75th percentile GPA was 3.66.

Overall, the University of the Pacific (Mcgeorge) School of Law is competitive, requiring applicants to have solid grades and LSAT scores to be considered for admission. Those who are accepted tend to be very successful in the legal field, as demonstrated by their ability to pass the bar exam at a high rate. As such, those interested in attending Pacific McGeorge should make sure that they are well-prepared to meet the school's admissions requirements.

Application Deadline

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law encourages prospective students to submit their applications for the fall 2023 semester by February 1 to have the best chance of being accepted on a rolling basis. Those who cannot meet this priority deadline will still be considered up until June 1; however, only test scores from the June 2023 LSAT exam will be accepted.

How to Apply

To apply to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, you must use the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) platform. It is important to remember that McGeorge does not accept hard-copy applications, and your application must be complete when submitted. The LSAC allows students to apply for admission and scholarship programs, housing, and other services to assist them in their law school application process.

To use the LSAC platform, you need to create an account and provide information such as name, email address, mailing address, and phone number. Once registered on the platform, students can access several resources, including their online application form.

Application Requirements

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law offers students a unique opportunity to pursue their legal aspirations. To apply for admission, prospective students must submit a completed application form, a personal statement, a resume, and two letters of recommendation through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Up to three letters of recommendation are accepted. Furthermore, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and submit their CAS report with all undergraduate transcripts, LSAT scores, and LSAC Writing Samples. Lastly, an email address is required to receive communication from the school.

Personal Statement

The statement should be four and a half pages, double-spaced, in 12 pt. font. An applicant's personal statement is a great chance to give an insight into who the individual is and what makes them stand out from other candidates.

Provide a Resume of full-time employment and other activities, starting with the most recent. Include dates, name(s) of an employer(s), and position(s) held. List the hours worked per week and academic honors received since entering college. List extracurricular activities, hobbies, and community service. Describe the nature and extent of employment during college and include volunteer work. Please include summers. Explain any periods after high school not accounted for by the preceding educational and employment history. However, all other high school information should be omitted.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants applying to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law must submit two letters of recommendation directly to LSAC, with a maximum allowance of three. It is wise for applicants to reach out to professors, administrators, and other college personnel who have had the opportunity to assess their academic skills, time management, research, and analysis abilities.

For those who have been out of school, letters of recommendation from employers, business colleagues, and mentors can be submitted instead. Letters from family members and close personal friends are discouraged since they usually need to accurately assess the applicant's skills and potential for success in law school. These letters should focus on the applicant's skills and abilities relevant to their potential success in law school.

Applicants must submit strong letters of recommendation that accurately reflect their academic capabilities and other attributes, as they can be a critical factor in the admissions decision process. Applicants should provide all necessary information to writers to craft effective letters of recommendation.

Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and LSAT

For anyone wishing to apply to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, it is necessary to register with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) for both their Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Applicants must provide official transcripts from prior college and university coursework directly to LSAC, and the scores from the LSAT must be from administrations within five years before the year of enrollment. Additionally, applicants whose undergraduate degrees are not from educational institutions within the United States, its territories, or Canada must use LSAC's Credential Assembly Service for international document authentication and evaluation. All application files will not be reviewed until a law school report, including an LSAT score, has been received by the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law.

To apply to the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, applicants must submit official transcripts from any college and university they attended. These transcripts should be sent directly to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Once received, LSAC will review each transcript and forward a report detailing their findings to the law school the applicant has designated.

Tuition and Financial Aid

2022-2023 Tuition Summary

University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law offers several grants and funding programs to help students cover the cost of their tuition. These grants are generally awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, or performance. The Federal Pell Grant is one such program, assisting students with the highest levels of financial need. For 2020-2021, Pell Grants range from $639 to $6,345. The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is another program providing additional funding for undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need and are also recipients of the Pell Grant. In such cases, Pacific students are typically awarded up to $1,000 annually.

Scholarships

At the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, an incredible community is committed to investing in students’ success by providing various scholarship opportunities. These scholarships are generously funded by donors who recognize how important it is to give back and support current students.

Scholarships can come in many shapes and sizes, from full-tuition awards to smaller stipends that can help cover some of the expenses associated with law school. Scholarship recipients are chosen based on academic achievement and financial need. They may be required to fulfill certain conditions, such as maintaining a minimum GPA or completing an internship, to continue receiving the award.

With the help of scholarships, students can reduce their out-of-pocket costs and focus on achieving academic success. At Pacific McGeorge, they take great pride in providing great scholarship opportunities to their deserving students as part of their commitment to helping you realize your dreams and reach your full potential.

Federal Direct Loans are available to students who submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, regardless of their income level. These loans can help offset the costs of attending the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, providing necessary financial support to enable students to achieve their academic goals.

The amount and type of loan you're eligible to receive are determined by the university each year, considering your Cost of Attendance, Expected Family Contribution (EFC), other financial aid, and current grade level. The types of loans typically available include subsidized, unsubsidized, or a combination of both.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law strives to ensure that all students have access to the financial assistance they need. Federal Direct Loans are an essential part of this equation. They provide clear information regarding loan eligibility and availability offered through the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, including Subsidized Stafford Loans, Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, and Graduate PLUS loans.

Employment Prospects and Bar Passage

University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is a notable institution for legal education, with graduates from its program achieving impressive post-graduate successes. After completing their JD program, students often enter into the professional world, where they can expect to make an average median salary of $85,500 upon graduation if they take positions in a private sector setting. Public sector positions offer an average median salary of $67,000.

Regarding the type of jobs McGeorge law graduates take after school, 55.4% find employment in private law firms, and 3.6% go on to clerk for a judge. 14.3% enter public interest occupations, such as civil or human rights law.

The impressive academic offerings at McGeorge are also evident in the fact that 75.2% of its graduates pass their bar exams on their first attempt. This shows that students have received a well-rounded education that adequately prepares them for future professional pursuits. In addition, many of these same students pursue successful careers in law, business, and other fields.

For students considering a legal education at McGeorge School of Law, there is evidence that the school provides an excellent foundation for future success. With high first-time bar pass rates and excellent post-grad salary prospects, it's no wonder why many aspiring lawyers have chosen to attend this esteemed university.

Academics and Curriculum

The Princeton Review gives the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law an "Academic Experience Rating" of 79 out of 100. The same website lists the school's specialties as Criminal law, Environmental law, Government Services, International law, Property law, Taxation, and Intellectual Property law. The specialization in International law is particularly obvious, as the school was tied for the 17th spot (with Stanford and Cornell, of all schools) on the USNews ranking of programs in International law.

Aside from these specialties, McGeorge Law School students complement their classroom experiences with clinical experience (Community Legal Services Clinic, Immigration Law Clinic, Legislative-Process, Strategy and Ethics Clinic…), journal staffing (McGeorge Law Review, Pacific McGeorge Global Business & Development Law Journal, California Initiative Review…) and even dual degrees (JD/MPA, JD.M.Acc., JD/MBA…).

Not all is well at McGeorge, however, as the school sports a mediocre student/faculty ratio, a competitive student body, and facilities-including, the library, that are in dire need of renovation. The above-mentioned specializations and resources, however, as well as the school's state-capital location, which gives students access to numerous opportunities in both government and business settings, seem to outweigh the negatives of the McGeorge Law School academic experience.

Legal Clinics

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is highly committed to providing experiential learning opportunities for its students. Through their pioneering legal clinics, they offer quality pro bono representation to underserved community members and consistently help these individuals attain impressive victories in individual cases and across public policy areas. These clinics are beneficial not only for the clients but for the students as well. Through these clinics, student lawyers learn how to apply legal theory in practical contexts and develop professional lawyering skills that will serve them throughout their careers. Furthermore, they can grow as reflective practitioners who can keep learning from any situation.

The Community Legal Services (CLS) clinic at McGeorge has been serving the local community since 1974 and was even honored with the “Heroes of Human Services” award by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors in 2018. CLS offers various legal services, including immigration law, elder and health law, homeless advocacy, and bankruptcy. These clinics are invaluable to individuals who need legal assistance and students who get to hone their legal skills while providing an invaluable service. This is yet another example of how McGeorge is dedicated to producing qualified, compassionate, and ethical lawyers equipped to make a difference in today’s world.

Externships

Externships allow students to gain hands-on experience and academic credit through their internships. Although externships and internships require similar tasks, they differ in how it is recognized. Internships are not typically part of any educational curriculum and therefore do not offer credits. However, if a student has an existing internship that meets the criteria of an externship, they will obtain academic credit for their work.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law offers externships to help students gain real-world experience and network with experienced professionals. Their Externships Office ensures that its students get the most out of their externships – guiding academic policies and criteria and helping find the right program for them. They also offer their students access to various resources to help them prepare for their externships and fully use their experience.

The Mock Trial Competition Team Program

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law's Mock Trial Competition Team Program is focused on equipping students with the necessary skills to become top-notch trial lawyers. Through individualized instruction, participants are taught persuasive advocacy techniques and how to appropriately apply the Federal Rules of Evidence in a court of law. These litigators hone their craft by participating in numerous local, regional, and national competitions throughout the year.

In these competitions, teams act as trial counsel for a fictional client. They file pretrial motions, present opening and closing statements, conduct direct and cross-examination of witnesses, and make persuasive arguments to the jury or judge. Through this experience, students gain invaluable insight into the legal system and what it takes to be a successful trial lawyer. By competing at the highest level, they also make lasting connections that can open doors to internships and job opportunities.

At the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law, they are proud to offer their students an unparalleled opportunity for growth and professional development through their Mock Trial Competition Team Program. Their program is dedicated to developing the next generation of trial lawyers, and they are confident that their participants will be ready for success in any courtroom.

McGeorge School of Law at the University of the Pacific provides its students with an outstanding moot court program. In these moot court competitions, students must demonstrate their written and oral advocacy skills by representing a case on appeal before a court of last resort or intermediate appellate court. This competition allows students to hone their legal knowledge by diving deep into an array of subject areas, such as International law, Constitutional law, Criminal procedure, and Intellectual property.

McGeorge School of Law sends teams to about 12 or more moot court competitions annually. Day students are eligible to participate in the competition during their third year, while evening students can get involved during their third and fourth years. Additionally, second-year students can apply for the position of research assistant, in which they must conduct legal research on the issues at hand and analyze relevant case laws or statutes.

When applying for moot court competitions, applicants are judged based on several factors, such as their grades from written and oral advocacy courses, law review work, and overall GPA. Those who succeed in the selection process become members of the Moot Court Honors Board for the following academic year. As part of this, they are typically expected to compete in two competitions and fulfill committee work that helps achieve the board's goals. This includes organizing and running First Year Moot Court Competitions which all first-year students can participate in during the spring semester.

Quality of Life

The campus is in the Oak Park area, with high crime and poverty levels. However, the cost of living there is lower than in many other parts of Sacramento, which can be attractive for students on a budget.

McGeorge does not have the same sense of community as some other law schools due to its large student body. However, students still have plenty of chances to form close relationships and make connections as ample social opportunities are available. Unfortunately, the campus is not located on the leading University of Pacific campus in Stockton, so there is no opportunity for law students to mingle with undergraduates. Nevertheless, Sacramento still has plenty of social and recreational outlets to explore. With its excellent climate and diverse culture, McGeorge School of Law is an idyllic spot for law students who want to learn and grow in a vibrant city.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is located in bustling Sacramento, California. The Mediterranean climate is mild and pleasant, perfect for activities outside of studying law. With its multitude of bars, parks, music venues, restaurants, and more, there's no shortage of ways to be entertained in this city.

Unfortunately, McGeorge's campus is located in the Oak Park section of Sacramento, an area with a sadly high crime rate and poverty levels. However, the cost of living in Oak Park is lower than many other parts of Sacramento, which can be attractive for law students on a budget.

Although McGeorge does not have the same tightly knit community as some other law schools due to its size, there are still plenty of social opportunities to meet people and form close relationships. Additionally, students who want to avoid the higher cost of living in Sacramento can look into it.

The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law is great for law students to learn and grow in a vibrant city. Its mild climate and ample recreational outlets make it an ideal spot for law students looking to explore and make connections while working towards their degrees. Despite its location in the Oak Park section of Sacramento, which has a high crime rate and poverty levels, there are still plenty of social opportunities to meet people and form close relationships. Additionally, students who want to avoid the higher cost of living in Sacramento can look into living nearby for an affordable option.

After all the weighing of pros and cons, the bottom line seems to be that McGeorge Law School is a great option for those who know they want to practice in the Sacramento area. Beyond that region, other schools may prove superior.

Contact Information

University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law Stockton Campus 3601 Pacific Ave. Stockton, CA 95211 Admissions: 209.946.2211

Sacramento Campus 3200 Fifth Ave. Sacramento, California 95817 Admissions: 916.739.7105

San Francisco Campus 155 Fifth St. San Francisco, California 94103 Admissions: 415.929.6491

https://www.pacific.edu/admission

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⭐️How to Format Your Law School Personal Statement

Check the application of every school to which you’re applying, but in general, you should follow these guidelines.

I prefer a one-line header. Put your name on the left, your LSAC number in the middle, and the words “Personal Statement,” followed by a page number, on the right. It looks like this:

In case you’re not comfortable with Word headers, I’ve made a correctly formatted .docx file with a one-line header.  Click here to download the sample text, then substitute your information for the placeholders.

You can also put all the information on the right-hand side, in three lines, like this:

If you use a three-line header on the first page, you may want to use a shorter header—name, page number—on subsequent pages.

The Essay Body

• Don’t give your essay a title.
• Use twelve-point, Times New Roman font (an eleven-point font is fine too if the application doesn't specify)
• Use one-inch margins all around.
• Double-space your essay.
• Left-align or justify your essay.
• Add half-inch indentations to each paragraph.
• Don’t add an extra return between paragraphs.
• Use one space after periods.

I’ve implemented this formatting in the personal statement format sample .

Learn about our admissions consulting and editing services .

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18 Law School Personal Statement Examples That Got Accepted!

This blog contains law school personal statement examples written by applicants who were successfully accepted to multiple law schools after working with our admissions experts as part of our  l aw school admissions consulting services . Your  law school personal statement  is one of the most important parts of your application and is your best opportunity to show admissions officers who you are behind your numbers and third-party assessments. Because of its importance, many students find the personal statement to be daunting and demanding of the full scope of their skills as writers. Today we're going to review these excellent law school personal statement examples from past successful applicants and provide some proven strategies from a former admissions officer that can help you prepare your own stellar essay. 

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 44 min read

Law school personal statement example #1.

When I was a child, my neighbors, who had arrived in America from Nepal, often seemed stressed. They argued a lot, struggled for money, and seemed to work all hours of the day. One day, I woke early in the morning to a commotion outside my apartment. Police officers were accompanying my neighbors out of the building. They were being deported. In my teens, I was shocked to see that our kind, friendly neighbors had exhausted their last chance to stay in America as they lost a court appeal. 

Since that time, I have worked closely with the many immigrant families in my neighborhood, and now university town. I began by volunteering at a local community center. Together with social workers, I served food and gave out clothes to new arrivals. My diligent work ethic led to more responsibility, and I received training in basic counseling techniques, first aid skills and community services. Soon, I was tasked with welcoming new community members and assessing their health and social needs. I heard the many difficult stories of those who had traveled thousands of miles, often through several countries, risking everything to reach a safe, welcoming country. I was proud to contribute in some small way to making America welcoming for these individuals.

The community center is where I had my first formal contact with legal aid lawyers, who were a constant source of knowledge and support for those who needed assistance. I was struck by the lawyers’ ability to explain complex legal processes to nervous and exhausted incomers: law, I realized, was about more than procedure. I decided that I, too, would strive to balance a wealth of technical knowledge with my caring, compassionate personality.

As soon as I enrolled in university, I knew I had the chance to do so. In my very first week, I signed up to volunteer at the university’s legal aid center, where I worked closely with law professors and students on a range of cases. Academically, I have focused on courses, such as a fourth-year Ethics seminar, that would help me develop rigorous critical reasoning skills. More importantly, I knew that, given my experience, I could be a leader on campus. I decided to found a refugee campaign group, Students4Refugees. Together with a group of volunteers, we campaigned to make our campus a refugee-friendly space. I organized a series of events: international student mixers, an art installation in our student commons, and concerts that raised over $5,000 for the charity Refugee Aid. I am proud to say that my contributions were recognized with a university medal for campus leadership.

I have seen time and again how immigrants to the United States struggle with bureaucracy, with complex legal procedures, and with the demands of living in a foreign and sometimes hostile climate. As I plan to enter law school, I look back to my neighbors’ experiences: they needed someone who knew the law, who could negotiate with the authorities on their behalf, who could inform them of their rights—but they also needed someone who would provide a caring and compassionate outlet for their stresses. I know that Townsville University’s combination of academic rigor, legal aid services, and history of graduates entering labor and non-profit sectors will allow me to develop these skills and continue making contributions to my community by advocating for those in need.

• Thematic consistency: It focuses on just one theme: justice for immigrants. Each paragraph is designed to show off how enthusiastic the student is about this area of law. Personal statements—including those for law school—often begin with a personal anecdote. This one is short, memorable, and relevant. It establishes the overall theme quickly. By constraining their essay’s focus to a single general theme, the writer can go into great depth and weave in emotional and psychological weight through careful and vivid description. The personal statement isn’t a standard 3-paragraph college essay with a spotlight thesis statement, but it conveys similar impact through presenting a central focus organically, without resorting to simply blurting out “the point” of the piece.   
• Shows, rather than tells: Connected to this, this statement focuses on showing rather than telling. Rather than simply telling the reader about their commitment to law, the applicant describes specific situations they were involved in that demonstrate their commitment to law. “Show don’t tell” means you want to paint a vivid picture of actions or experiences that demonstrate a given quality or skill, and not simply say "I can do X." Make it an experience for your reader, don't just give them a fact. 
• Confident, but not arrogant: Additionally, this personal statement is confident without being boastful—leadership qualities, grades, and an award are all mentioned in context, rather than appearing as a simple list of successes. 
• Specific to the school: It ends with a conclusion that alludes to why the applicant is suitable for the specific school to which they’re applying and points to their future career plans. Thoroughly researching the law school to which you’re applying is incredibly important so that you can tailor your remarks to the specific qualities and values they’re looking for. A law essay writing service is really something that can help you integrate this aspect effectively. 

What Should a Law School Personal Statement Do?

1.      be unique to the school you’re applying to.

Students are always asking how to write a personal statement for law school, particularly one that stands out from all the rest. After all, advice from most universities can often be quite vague. Take this zinger from the  University of Chicago : “Write about something personal, relevant, and completely individual to you… Just be yourself.” Every school will have different requirements or content they want to see in a personal statement. This is why it’s a good idea to review specific guidelines for the school to which you’re applying. For example, you can read Yale Law School personal statement examples , Stanford Law personal statement examples , and an NYU personal statement to get an idea of what these schools look for.

2.      Demonstrate your skills and capabilities

For motivated students with the world at their fingertips, it’s a tough ask to narrow your character down into a few hundred words! But this is exactly the point of such generic guidelines—to challenge aspiring law students to produce something unique and convincing with minimal direction by the university. Law is, after all, a profession that demands your language to be persuasive, and the personal statement is merely one of many exercises where you can demonstrate your language skills. 

3.      Meet basic requirements

While the law school personal statement is about far more than just following essay directions, you still need to keep basic formatting and length restrictions in mind. Most law schools ask for a 2-page personal statement, but lengths can range from 2-4 pages. Georgetown Law School , for instance, recommends a 2-page personal statement but explicitly states that there is no official minimum or maximum. In general, length does not make a personal statement better. Rambling, meandering sentences and tiresome descriptions will only hurt the impact of your ideas, especially considering how many thousands of pages admissions committees have to churn through each year.  

In short, keep to 2 double-spaced pages, and only go below or above this is if you absolutely have to, and if the school to which you're applying allows it. You want to keep things as widely applicable as possible while drafting your personal statement, meaning that you don't want to draft a 4 page letter for the one school that allows it, and then have to significantly rewrite this for your other schools. Stick to 2 pages. 

4.      Embody what the school is looking for

Lastly, many law schools won’t offer hyper-specific prompts, but will give you general law school admissions essay topics to follow. For instance, the University of Washington’s law school provides a number of topics to follow, including “Describe a personal challenge you faced” or “Describe your passions and involvement in a project or pursuit and the ways in which it has contributed to your personal growth and goals.” These topics may feel specific at first, but as you begin drafting, you’ll likely realize you have dozens of memories to choose from, and numerous ways of describing their impact. While drafting, try to explore as many of these options as possible, and select the best or most impactful to use in your final draft.  

Law School Personal Statement Example #2

In my home community, the belief is that the law is against us. The law oppresses and victimizes. I must admit that as a child and young person I had this opinion based on my environment and the conversations around me. I did not understand that the law could be a vehicle for social change, and I certainly did not imagine I had the ability and talents to be a voice for this change. I regularly attended my high school classes because I enjoyed the discussions and reading for English and history, and writing came easily to me, but I wasn’t committed to getting good grades because I felt I had no purpose. My mindset changed as I spent time with Mark Russell, a law student who agreed to mentor and tutor me as part of a “high school to law school” mentorship program. Every week, for three years, Mark and I would meet. At first, Mark tutored me, but I quickly became an “A” student, not only because of the tutoring, but because my ambitions were uncorked by what Mark shared with me about university, the law, and his life. I learned grades were the currency I needed to succeed. I attended mock trials, court hearings, and law lectures with Mark and developed a fresh understanding of the law that piqued an interest in law school. My outlook has changed because my mentor, my teachers, and my self-advocacy facilitated my growth. Still, injustices do occur. The difference is that I now believe the law can be an instrument for social change, but voices like mine must give direction to policy and resources in order to fight those injustices.

Early in my mentorship, I realized it was necessary to be “in the world” differently if I were to truly consider a law career. With Mark’s help and the support of my high school teachers, I learned to advocate for myself and explore opportunities that would expand my worldview as well as my academic skills. I joined a Model UN club at a neighboring high school, because my own school did not have enough student interest to have a club. By discussing global issues and writing decisions, I began to feel powerful and confident with my ability to gather evidence and make meaningful decisions about real global issues. As I built my leadership, writing, and public speaking skills, I noticed a rift developing with some of my friends. I wanted them to begin to think about larger systemic issues outside of our immediate experience, as I was learning to, and to build confidence in new ways. I petitioned my school to start a Model UN and recruited enough students to populate the club. My friends did not join the club as I’d hoped, but before I graduated, we had 2 successful years with the students who did join. I began to understand that I cannot force change based on my own mandate, but I must listen attentively to the needs and desires of others in order to support them as they require.

While I learned to advocate for myself throughout high school, I also learned to advocate for others. My neighbors, knowing my desire to be a lawyer, would often ask me to advocate on their behalf with small grievances. I would make phone calls, stand in line with them at government offices, and deal with difficult landlords. A woman, Elsa, asked me to review her rental agreement to help her understand why her landlord had rented it to someone else, rather than renewing her lease. I scoured the rental agreement, highlighted questionable sections, read the Residential Tenancies Act, and developed a strategy for approaching the landlord. Elsa and I sat down with the landlord and, upon seeing my binder complete with indices, he quickly conceded before I could even speak. That day, I understood evidence is the way to justice. My interest in justice grew, and while in university, I sought experiences to solidify my decision to pursue law.

Last summer, I had the good fortune to work as a summer intern in the Crown Attorney’s Office responsible for criminal trial prosecutions. As the only pre-law intern, I was given tasks such as reviewing court tapes, verifying documents, and creating a binder with indices. I often went to court with the prosecutors where I learned a great deal about legal proceedings, and was at times horrified by human behavior. This made the atmosphere in the Crown Attorney’s office even more surprising. I worked with happy and passionate lawyers whose motivations were pubic service, the safety and well-being of communities, and justice. The moment I realized justice was their true objective, not the number of convictions, was the moment I decided to become a lawyer.

I broke from the belief systems I was born into. I did this through education, mentorship, and self-advocacy. There is sadness because in this transition I left people behind, especially as I entered university. However, I am devoted to my home community. I understand the barriers that stand between youth and their success. As a law student, I will mentor as I was mentored, and as a lawyer, I will be a voice for change.

What’s Great about this Second Law School Personal Statement?

• It tells a complete and compelling story: Although the applicant expressed initial reservations about the law generally, the statement tells a compelling story of how the applicant's opinions began to shift and their interest in law began. They use real examples and show how that initial interest, once seeded, grew into dedication and passion. This introduction implies an answer to the " why do you want to study law? ” interview question.
• It shows adaptability: Receptiveness to new information and the ability to change both thought and behavior based on this new information. The writer describes realizing that they needed to be "in the world" differently! It's hard to convey such a grandiose idea without sounding cliché, but through their captivating and chronological narrative, the writer successfully convinces the reader that this is the case with copious examples, including law school extracurriculars . It’s a fantastic case of showing rather than telling, describing specific causes they were involved with which demonstrate that the applicant is genuinely committed to a career in the law. 
• Includes challenges the subject faced and overcame: This law school personal statement also discusses weighty, relatable challenges that they faced, such as the applicant's original feeling toward law, and the fact that they lost some friends along the way. However, the applicant shows determination to move past these hurdles without self-pity or other forms of navel-gazing.  Additionally, this personal statement ends with a conclusion that alludes to why the applicant is suitable for the specific school to which they’re applying and points to their future career plans. The writer manages to craft an extremely immersive and believable story about their path to the present, while also managing to curate the details of this narrative to fit the specific values and mission of the school to which they’re applying.

What’s Great About This Third Law School Personal Statement? 

• Description is concise and effective: This writer opens with rich, vivid description and seamlessly guides the reader into a compelling first-person narrative. Using punchy, attention-grabbing descriptions like these make events immersive, placing readers in the writer's shoes and creating a sense of immediacy. 
• Achievements are the focus: They also do a fantastic job of talking about their achievements, such as interview team lead, program design, etc., without simply bragging. Instead, they deliver this information within a cohesive narrative that includes details, anecdotes, and information that shows their perspective in a natural way. Lastly, they invoke their passion for law with humility, discussing their momentary setbacks and frustrations as ultimately positive experiences leading to further growth. 

Want more law school personal statement examples from top law schools?

• Harvard law school personal statement examples
• Columbia law school personal statement examples
• Cornell law school personal statement examples
• Yale law school personal statement examples
• UPenn law school personal statement examples
• Cambridge law school personal statement examples

Law School Personal Statement #4

What’s great about this fourth law school personal statement.

• Engaging description: Like the third example above, this fourth law school personal statement opens with engaging description and first-person narrative. However, the writer of this personal statement chooses to engage a traumatic aspect of their childhood and discuss how this adversity led them to develop their desire to pursue a career in law.  
• Strong theme of overcoming adversity: Overcoming adversity is a frequent theme in personal statements for all specialties, but with law school personal statements students are often able to utilize uniquely dramatic, difficult, and pivotal experiences that involved interacting with the law. It may be hard to discuss such emotionally weighty experiences in a short letter but, as this personal statement shows, with care and focus it's possible to sincerely demonstrate how your early struggles paved the way for you to become the person you are now. It's important to avoid sensationalism, but you shouldn't shy away from opening up to your readers about adverse experiences that have ultimately pointed you in a positive direction. 

Law School Personal Statement Example #5

What’s great about this fifth law school personal statement  .

• Highlights achievements effectively: This writer does a fantastic job of incorporating their accomplishments and impact they had on their community without any sense of bragging or conceit. Rather, these accomplishments are related in terms of deep personal investment and a general drive to have a positive impact on those around them—without resorting to the cliches of simply stating "I want to help people." They show themselves helping others, and how these early experiences of doing so are a fundamental part of their drive to succeed with a career in law.   
• Shows originality: Additionally, they do a great job of explaining the uniqueness of their identity. The writer doesn't simply list their personal/cultural characteristics, but contextualizes them to show how they've shaped their path to law school. Being the child of a Buddhist mother and a Hindu father doesn’t imply anything about a person’s ability to study/practice law on its own, but explaining how this unique aspect of their childhood encouraged a passion for “discussion, active debate, and compromise” is profoundly meaningful to an admissions panel. Being able to express how fundamental aspects of law practice are an integral part of yourself is a hugely helpful tactic in a law school personal statement. 

If you\u2019re heading North of the border, check out list of  law schools in Canada  that includes requirements and stats on acceptance. ","label":"Tip","title":"Tip"}]" code="tab2" template="BlogArticle">

Law School Personal Statement Example #6

What’s great about this sixth law school personal statement .

• Weaves in cultural background: Similar to the writer of personal statement #5, this student utilizes the cultural uniqueness of their childhood to show how their path to law school was both deeply personal and rooted in ideas pervasive in their early years. Unlike the writer of statement #5, this student doesn't shy away from explaining how this distinctiveness was often a source of alienation and difficulty. Yet this adversity is, as they note, ultimately what helped them be an adaptable and driven student, with a clear desire to make a positive impact on the kinds of situations that they witnessed affect their parents.  
• Describes setbacks while remaining positive: This writer also doesn't shy away from describing their temporary setbacks as both learning experiences and, crucially, springboards for positively informing their plans for the future. 

What’s Great About This Seventh Law School Personal Statement? 

• The writer takes accountability: One of the hardest things to accomplish in a personal statement is describing not just early setbacks that are out of your control but early mistakes for which you must take responsibility. The writer of this personal statement opens with descriptions of characteristics that most law schools would find problematic at best. But at the end of this introduction, they successfully utilize an epiphany, a game-changing moment in which they saw something beyond their early pathological aimlessness, to clearly mark the point at which they became focused on law.  
• The narrative structure is clear: They clearly describe the path forward from this moment on, showing how they remained focused on earning a law degree, and how they were able to work through successive experiences of confusion to persist in finishing their undergraduate education at a prestigious university. Of course, you shouldn't brag about such things for their own sake, but this writer makes the point of opening up about the unique feelings of inadequacy that come along with being the first person in their family to attend such a school, and how these feelings were—like their initial aimlessness—mobilized in service of their goal and the well-being of others. Their statement balances discussion of achievement with humility, which is a difficult but impactful tactic when done well. 

Law School Personal Statement Example #8

What’s great about this eighth law school personal statement .

• Shows commitment to the community: Commitment to one’s community is a prized value in both law students and law professionals. This writer successfully describes not only how they navigated the challenges in their group environments, such as their internship, the debate team, etc., but how these challenges strengthened their commitment to being a positive part of their communities. They don’t simply describe the skills and lessons they learned from these challenging environments, but also how these challenges ultimately made them even more committed to and appreciative of these kinds of dynamic, evolutionary settings.  
• Avoids negative description: They also avoid placing blame or negatively describing the people in these situations, instead choosing to characterize inherent difficulties in terms neutral to the people around them. In this way, you can describe extremely challenging environments without coming off as resentful, and identify difficulties without being accusatory or, worse yet, accidentally or indirectly seeming like part of the problem. This writer manages to convey the difficulty and complexity of these experiences while continually returning to their positive long-term impact, and though you shouldn’t seek to “bright-side” the troubles in your life you should absolutely point out how these experiences have made you a more capable and mature student. 

Law School Personal Statement Example #9

What’s great about this ninth law school personal statement  .

• The writer effectively describes how their background shaped their decision to pursue law: Expressing privilege as adversity is something that very few students should even attempt, and fewer still can actually pull it off. But the writer of this personal statement does just that in their second paragraph, describing how the ease and comfort of their upbringing could have been a source of laziness or detachment, and often is for particularly well-off students, but instead served as a basis for their ongoing commitment to addressing the inequalities and difficulties of those less comfortable. Describing how you’ve developed into an empathic and engaged person, worked selflessly in any volunteer experiences, and generally aimed your academic life at a career in law for the aid of others—all this is incredibly moving for an admissions board, and can help you discuss your determination and understanding of exactly why you desire a career in law.  
• The student shows adaptability, flexibility, and commitment: Additionally, this writer is able to show adaptability while describing their more prestigious appointments in a way that’s neither self-aggrandizing nor unappreciative. One of the big takeaways from this statement is the student’s commitment and flexibility, and these are both vitally important qualities to convey in your law school personal statement.  

Law School Personal Statement Example #10

What’s great about this tenth law school personal statement .

Shows passion: If you’re one of the rare students for whom service to others has always been a core belief, by all means find a novel and engaging way of making this the guiding principle of your personal statement. Don’t overdo it—don’t veer into poetry or lofty philosophizing—but by all means let your passion guide your pen (well…keyboard). Every step of the way, this student relates their highs and lows, their challenges and successes, to an extremely earnest and sincere set of altruistic values invoked at the very beginning of their statement. Law school admissions boards don’t exactly prize monomania, but they do value intense and sustained commitment.  

Shows maturity: This student also successfully elaborates this passion in relation to mature understanding. That is, they make repeated points about their developing understanding of law that sustains their hopefulness and emotional intensity while also incorporating knowledge of the sometimes troubling day-to-day challenges of the profession. Law schools aren’t looking for starry-eyed naivete, but they do value optimism and the ability to stay positive in a profession often defined by its difficulties and unpredictability. 

Every pre-law student blames their lack of success on the large number of applicants, the heartless admissions committee members, or the high GPA and LSAT score cut offs. Check out our blog on  law school acceptance rates  to find out more about the law school admission statistics for law schools in the US . Having taught more than a thousand students every year, I can tell you the REAL truth about why most students get rejected: 

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8 Additional Law School Personal Statement Examples

Now that you have a better idea of what your law school personal statement should include, and how you can make it stand out, here are five additional law school personal statements for you to review and get some inspiration:

Law school personal statement example #11

According to the business wire, 51 percent of students are not confident in their career path when they enroll in college. I was one of those students for a long time. My parents had always stressed the importance of education and going to college, so I knew that I wanted to get a tertiary education, I just didn’t know in what field. So, like many other students, I matriculated undecided and started taking introductory courses in the subjects that interest me. I took classes from the department of literature, philosophy, science, statistics, business, and so many others but nothing really called out to me.

I figured that maybe if I got some practical experience, I might get more excited about different fields. I remembered that my high school counselor had told me that medicine would be a good fit for me, and I liked the idea of a career that involved constant learning. So, I applied for an observership at my local hospital. I had to cross “doctor” off my list of post-graduate career options when I fainted in the middle of a consultation in the ER.

I had to go back to the drawing board and reflect on my choices. I decided to stop trying to make an emotional decision and focus on the data. So, I looked at my transcript thus far, and it quickly became clear to me that I had both an interest and an aptitude for business and technology. I had taken more courses in those two fields than in any others, and I was doing very well in them. My decision was reaffirmed when I spent the summer interning at a digital marketing firm during my senior year in college and absolutely loved my experience. 

Since graduating, I have been working at that same firm and I am glad that I decided to major in business. I first started as a digital advertising assistant, and I quickly learned that the world of digital marketing is an incredibly fast-paced sink-or-swim environment. I didn’t mind it at all. I wanted to swim with the best of them and succeed. So far, my career in advertising has been challenging and rewarding in ways that I never could have imagined. 

I remember the first potential client that I handled on my own. Everything had been going great until they changed their mind about an important detail a day before we were supposed to present our pitch. . I had a day to research and re-do a presentation that I’d been preparing for weeks. I was sure that I’d be next on the chopping block, but once again all I had to was take a step back and look at the information that I had. Focusing on the big picture helped me come up with a new pitch, and after a long night, lots of coffee, and laser-like focus, I delivered a presentation that I was not only proud of, but that landed us the client. 

Three years and numerous client emergencies later, I have learned how to work under pressure, how to push myself, and how to think critically. I also have a much better understanding of who I am and what skills I possess. One of the many things that I have learned about myself over the course of my career is that I am a fan of the law. Over the past three years, I have worked with many lawyers to navigate the muddy waters of user privacy and digital media. I often find myself looking forward to working with our legal team, whereas my coworkers actively avoid them. I have even become friends with my colleagues on the legal team who also enjoy comparing things like data protection laws in the US and the EU and speculating about the future of digital technology regulation. 

These experiences and conversations have led me to a point where I am interested in various aspects of the law. I now know that I have the skills required to pursue a legal education and that this time around, I am very sure about what I wish to study. Digital technology has evolved rapidly over the last decade, and it is just now starting to become regulated. I believe that this shift is going to open up a more prominent role for those who understand both digital technology and its laws, especially in the corporate world. My goal is to build a career at the intersection of these worlds.

Law school personal statement example #12

The first weekend I spent on my undergrad college campus was simultaneously one of the best and worst of my life. I was so excited to be away from home, on my own, making new friends and trying new things. One of those things was a party at a sorority house with my friend and roommate, where I thought we both had a great time. Both of us came from small towns, and we had decided to look out for one another. So, when it was time to go home, and I couldn't find her, I started to worry. I spent nearly an hour looking for her before I got her message saying she was already back in our dorm. 

It took her three months to tell me that she had been raped that night. Her rapist didn't hold a knife to her throat, jump out of a dark alleyway, or slip her a roofie. Her rapist was her long-term boyfriend, with whom she'd been in a long-distance relationship for just over a year. He assaulted her in a stranger's bedroom while her peers, myself included, danced the night away just a few feet away. 

I remember feeling overwhelmed when she first told me. I was sad for my friend, angry on her behalf, and disgusted by her rapist's actions. I also felt incredibly guilty because I had been there when it happened. I told myself that I should have stayed with her all night and that I should have seen the abuse - verbal and physical harassment- that he was inflicting on her before it turned sexual. But eventually, I realized that thinking about what could, should, or would've happened doesn't help anyone. 

I watched my friend go through counseling, attend support groups, and still, she seemed to be hanging on by a thread. I couldn't begin to imagine what she was going through, and unfortunately, there was very little I could do to help her. So, I decided to get involved with the Sexual Assault Responders Group on campus, where I would actually be able to help another survivor. 

My experience with the Sexual Assault Responders Group on campus was eye-opening. I mostly worked on the peer-to-peer hotline, where I spoke to survivors from all walks of life. I was confronted by the fact that rape is not a surreal unfortunate thing that happens to a certain type of person. I learned that it happens daily to mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and friends. I also learned that most survivors try to manage this burden on their own, afraid of judgment and repercussions and fearful of a he-said-she-said court battle.

I am proud to say that I used my time in college to not only earn an education, but also to advocate for survivors of sexual assault. I protested the university's cover-up of a gang rape that took place in one of the fraternity houses on campus. I spearheaded a 'no means no' campaign to raise awareness about consent on campus. I also led several fundraising campaigns for the Sexual Assault Responders Group that allowed us to pay for legal and mental health counselors for the survivors who came to us for support. 

One of the things that this experience helped me realize is that sexual assault survivors often do not know where to turn when the system tries to tell them that it'd be best to just keep quiet and suffer in silence. My goal is to become one of those people that they can turn to for counsel and support. I believe that a law degree would give me the knowledge and tools that I need to advocate for survivors on a more significant scale. 

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Law school personal statement example #13

I grew up in two different worlds. My world at home was full of people of various skin tones and accents. It was small, loud, and often chaotic in the best ways. I remember walking home and getting to experience music from across the world before I got to my apartment building. Loud reggaeton and afrobeat were always playing somewhere in the distance. Aunties and uncles usually stopped by unannounced and slipped money in your palm when they hugged you goodbye. And the smell of fried plantains was almost always present. 

My other world was in school. It was a much quieter, more organized world with white hallways, navy blazers, and plaid skirts. It was full of people who did not look or sound like me and teachers who thought my hair was "interesting." It was also full of great books and engaging debates about everything from foreign policy to the influence of Jazz on hip hop. 

I lived in these two worlds because I was born and raised in Xtown, but I went to a private school in a much richer neighborhood. I loved both of my worlds, but I hated that I had to act differently in both of them. When in school, I had to "code switch" to sound like I belonged there. When I was at home, all the people who shared the interests I was developing in school were either working or in college, so I had no one to talk to about them. 

My words never felt more divided until I started considering a career in law. I remember telling one of my uncles that I wanted to become a lawyer and his response was, "So you want to become the man, huh?" 

I wasn't surprised by his response, or at least I shouldn't have been. One of the things that I know for sure about the first world I lived in is that many of its inhabitants do not trust the law. I had believed this for so long simply because of the conversations that I would hear around me. However, in my second world, I was learning about all of these great freedoms and rights that the law was designed to give all Americans, and I wanted to bring those to my community. 

I started working on this during the summer before my final year of high school. I got an internship with the legal aid office in my neighborhood and spent three months learning from people who, like me, had grown up in Xtown and wanted to help people. During my time in the legal aid office, I understood that the people in my community did not trust the law for two main reasons: 1. They did not understand a lot of it, and 2. It had been used against people like us many times. 

I remember one particular case that Ms. Sharma - the lawyer I was learning from then and who still mentors me today - handled that summer. It was the case of a young mother who had received a notice of eviction from her landlord two days after refusing his advances. The man claimed that she violated her contract because she made homemade shea butter that she sold on Etsy. Ms. Sharma had me look through her rental agreement. After she confirmed that I was right in determining that the young mother had not violated her contract, she contacted the landlord to advise him that what he was doing was intimidation and sexual harassment. 

My experiences in the legal aid office with Ms. Sharma opened my eyes to the disgusting behavior of human beings, but it also gave me the opportunity to see that the law was my opportunity to use what I learned in my second world to help the community that I was raised in. I returned to school with a new motivation that followed me to college. In addition to completing my bachelor's degree in sociology and African American studies, I spent most of my college years participating in legal internships and community outreach programs. 

I believe that these experiences have given me the foundation I need to be a successful law student and, eventually, a lawyer who can truly be an advocate for members of his community. 

Law school personal statement example #14

One day, my parents noticed that the other children in my age group had been speaking and communicating, but I had not. At first, they thought that my lack of speech was just me being shy, but eventually, they realized that on the rare occasions that I did speak, my words were practically incomprehensible. It wasn't long before they took me to a specialist who diagnosed me with a severe phonological disorder that hindered my ability to verbalize the basic sounds that make up words.

I started going to speech therapy when I was three years old. I saw numerous speech therapists, many of whom believed that I would never be able to communicate effectively with others. Lucky for me, my parents did not give up on me. I went to speech therapy thrice a week until the 8th grade, and I gave every single session my all. I also spent a lot of time in my room practicing my speech by myself. My efforts paid off, and even though I didn't become a chatterbox overnight, I could at least communicate effectively. 

This was a short-lived victory, though. A year later, my speech impediment was back, and my ability to articulate words was once again severely limited. This complicated matters because it was my freshman year of high school, and I was in a brand-new school where I did not know anyone. Having been bullied in middle school, I knew first-hand how vicious kids can be, and I didn't want to be the butt of any more jokes, so I didn't try to speak at school. I knew that this was preventing me from making new friends or participating in class and that it was probably not helping my impediment, but I was not ready to face the fact that I needed to go back to speech therapy. 

Eventually, I stopped resisting and went back to speech therapy. At the time, I saw it as accepting defeat, and even though my speech improved significantly, my self-confidence was lower than it had ever been. If you ask any of my high school classmates about me, they will likely tell you that I am very quiet or timid – both of which are not true, but they have no way of knowing otherwise. I barely spoke or interacted with my peers for most of high school. Instead, I focused on my studies and extracurricular activities that didn't involve much collaboration, like yearbook club and photography. 

It was only when I was getting ready for college that I realized that I was only hurting myself with my behavior. I knew I needed to become more confident about my speech to make friends and be the student I wanted to be in college. So, I used the summer after my high school graduation to get some help. I started seeing a new speech therapist who was also trained as a counselor, and she helped me understand my impediment better. For example, I now know that I tend to stutter when stressed, but I also know that taking a few deep breaths helps me get back on track. 

Using the confidence that I built in therapy that summer, I went to college with a new pep in my step. I pushed myself to meet new people, try new things, and join extracurricular organizations when I entered college. I applied to and was accepted into a competitive freshman leadership program called XYZ. Most of XYZ's other members were outgoing and highly involved in their high school communities. In other words, they were the complete opposite of me. I didn't let that intimidate me. Instead, I made a concerted effort to learn from them. If you ask any of my teammates or other classmates in college, they will tell you that I was an active participant in discussions during meetings and that I utilized my unique background to share a different perspective.

My experience with XYZ made it clear to me that my speech disorder wouldn't hold me back as long as I did not stand in my own way. Once I understood this, I kept pushing past the boundaries I had set for myself. I began taking on leadership roles in the program and looking for ways to contribute to my campus community outside of XYZ. For example, I started a community outreach initiative that connected school alumni willing to provide pro bono services to different members of the community who were in need. 

Now, when I look back at my decision to go back to speech therapy, I see it as a victory. I understand that my speech impediment has shaped me in many ways, many of which are positive. My struggles have made me more compassionate. My inability to speak has made me a better listener. Not being able to ask questions or ask for help has made me a more independent critical thinker. I believe these skills will help me succeed in law school, and they are part of what motivates me to apply in the first place. Having struggled for so long to speak up for myself, I am ready and eager for the day when I can speak up for others who are temporarily unable to. 

“ You talk too much; you should be a lawyer.” 

I heard that sentence often while growing up because Congolese people always tell children who talk a lot that they should be lawyers. Sometimes I wonder if those comments did not subconsciously trigger my interest in politics and then the law. If they did, I am grateful for it. I am thankful for all the experiences that have brought me to this point where I am seeking an education that will allow me to speak for those who don’t always know how to, and, more importantly, those who are unable to. 

For context, I am the child of Congolese immigrants, and my parents have a fascinating story that I will summarize for you: 

A 14-year-old girl watches in confusion as a swarm of parents rush through the classroom, grabbing their children, and other students start running from the class. Soon she realizes that she and one other student are the only ones left, but when they both hear the first round of gunshots, no one has to tell them that it is time to run home. On the way home, she hears more gunshots and bombs. She fears for her survival and that of her family, and she starts to wonder what this war means for her and her family. Within a few months, her mother and father are selling everything they own so that they can board a plane to the US.

On the other side of the town, a 17-year-old boy is being forced to board a plane to the US because his mother, a member of parliament and the person who taught him about the importance of integrity, has been executed by the same group of soldiers who are taking over the region. 

They met a year later, outside the principal’s office at a high school in XXY. They bonded over the many things they have in common and laughed at the fact that their paths probably never would have crossed in Bukavu. Fast forward to today, they have been married for almost two decades and have raised three children, including me. 

Growing up in a Congolese household in the US presented was very interesting. On the one hand, I am very proud of the fact that I get to share my heritage with others. I speak French, Lingala, and Swahili – the main languages of Congo – fluently. I often dress in traditional clothing; I performed a traditional Congolese dance at my high school’s heritage night and even joined the Congolese Student Union at Almamatter University. 

On the other hand, being Congolese presented its challenges growing up. At a young age, I looked, dressed, and sounded different from my classmates. Even though I was born in the US, I had picked up a lot of my parents’ accents, and kids loved to tease me about it. Ignorant comments and questions were not uncommon. “Do you speak African?” “You’re not American! How did you get here?” “You don’t look African” “My mom says I can’t play with you because your parents came here to steal our jobs”. These are some of the polite comments that I heard often, and they made me incredibly sad, especially when classmates I considered my friends made them. 

My parents did not make assimilating any easier. My mother especially always feared I would lose my Congolese identity if they did not make it a point to remind me of it. She often said, “Just because you were born in America doesn’t mean that you are not Congolese anymore.” On one occasion, I argued that she always let me experience my Congolese side, but not my American side. That was the first time she told me I should be a lawyer. 

Having few friends and getting teased in school helped me learn to be comfortable on my own. I Often found refuge and excitement in books. I even started blogging about the books I read and interacting with other readers online. As my following grew, I started to use my platform to raise awareness about issues that I am passionate about, like climate change, the war in Congo, and the homeless crisis here in XXY. I was able to start a fundraising campaign through my blog that raised just under $5000 for the United Way – a local charity that helps the homeless in my city. 

This experience helped me understand that I could use my skills and the few tools at my disposal to help people, both here in America and one day, maybe even in Congo. I realized that I am lucky enough to have the option of expanding that skillset through education in order to do more for the community that welcomed my grandparents, uncles, aunties, and parents when they had nowhere else to go. 

The journey was not easy because while I received immense support and love from my family for continuing my education, I had to teach myself how to prepare and apply to college. Once there I had to learn on my own what my professors expected of me, how to study, how to network, and so much more. I am grateful for those experiences too, because they taught me how to be resourceful, research thoroughly, listen carefully, and seek help when I need it. 

All of these experiences have crafted me into who I am today, and I believe that with the right training, they will help me become a great attorney.

Law School Personal Statement Example #16

During my undergraduate studies, in the first two years, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do with my career. I enjoyed doing research, but I found that I became more interested in presenting the research than the process of contributing to it. I spoke to most of my science professors to ask if I could participate in their research. I worked in biology labs, chemistry labs, and in psychology classrooms working on a variety of projects that seemed meaningful and interesting. I gained new perspectives on study habits and mental health; the influence of music on the human mind; and applications of surface tension. I noticed that I was always taking the lead when we were presenting our findings to peers and research groups. I enjoyed yielding questions and addressing the captivating the audience with engaging gestures and speech. This was what led me to consider a career in law.

I always thought that I would become a scientist, so when I discovered that there were aspects of law that could be considered “scientific”, I was all ears. Still during my second year of undergraduate studies, I wanted to join an environmental awareness group, but noticed there weren’t any active. So, I took it upon myself to create my own. I wanted to do cleanup projects across the city, so I mapped out parks and areas that we could walk or drive to. I advertised my project to other students and eventually gained approximately fifteen students eager to help out. I was struck by the pollution in the water, the negligence of park maintenance. I drafted a letter to the municipal government and petitioned for a stricter environmental compliance approach. I wanted to advertise fines to hold polluters accountable, as there were hardly any to enforce the rules. A letter was returned to me stating that the government would consider my request. I felt a sense of gratification, of purpose; I discovered that I had the ability to enact change through policy. This drew me closer to the prospect of building a future in law, so I looked at other avenues to learn more.

I still wanted to find a way to bring together my love of science and discourse/communication. As a science student, I had the privilege of learning from professors who emphasized critical thinking; and they gave me a chance to learn that on my own. I took an internship as an environmental planner. There, I helped present project ideas to various groups, updating demographic/development information, and managing planning processes. I engaged in analytical thinking by looking at maps and demographic information to develop potential plans for land use. It was also the experience I was looking for in terms of a balance between science and oral communication. Using data analysis, I spoke to other planners and review boards to bring ideas together and execute a plan.

Through science, I learned how to channel my curiosity and logical thinking; as an advocate, I learned how to be creative and resourceful. Presenting research findings and being questioned in front of a group of qualified researchers, having to be sharp and ready for anything, taught me how to be more concise in speech. Developing an advocacy group dedicated to improving my community showed me what it lacked; it opened my eyes to the impact of initiative and focused collaboration. I was eager to begin another science project, this time with the environment in mind. It was titled “determining and defining the role of sociodemographic factors in air pollution health disparities”. I compiled and summarized relevant research and sent it over to a representative of the municipal government. In a couple of weeks, my request to increase advertising of fines in public areas was agreed to.

This Juris Doctor/Master in Environmental Studies program will allow me to continue deepening my knowledge of environmental law. With my goal of developing a career in environmental affairs, overseeing policies that influence land protection/use, I know that this program will give me the tools I need to succeed. With my experience working with large groups, I also believe I will fit into the larger class sizes at your institution. I understand the value of working together and how to engage in healthy discourse. With your Global Sustainability Certification, I will equip myself the expertise I need to produce meaningful change in environmental policy.

Here's how a law school advisor can help you with your application:

Law School Personal Statement #17

Growing up in a poor neighborhood, what my friends used to call “the ghetto”, I was always looking for my way out. I tried running away, but I always ended up back home in that tiny complex, barely enough room to fit all my brothers and sisters with my parents. My dad was disabled and couldn’t work, and my mother was doing her best working full-time as a personal-support worker. There was nothing we could do to get out of our situation, or so it seemed. It wasn’t until years later when I started my undergraduate degree that ironically, after I found my way out, that I began looking for a way to come back. I wanted to be a voice for people living in those bleak conditions; hungry, without work. Helpless.

Getting my degree in social work was one of the best decisions of my life. It gave me the tools to lobby for solutions to problems in poor communities. I knew my neighborhood better than anyone because I grew up there. I had the lived experience. I started working with the local government to develop programs for my clients; the people living in those same neighborhoods. We worked to provide financial assistance, legal aid, housing, and medical treatment—all things sorely lacking. My proudest moment was securing the funds and arranging surgery for my father’s bad hip and knees. I’m currently working on a large project with one of the community legislators to lobby for a harm reduction model addressing addiction in our communities.

With five years of experience as a social worker, I knew it was time for a career change when I learned that I could have more influence on public opinion and legislative decisions as a social-security disability lawyer. I knew firsthand that people victimized from racism, poverty, and injury needed more help than they were currently allotted. I knew that, from becoming and advocate and communicating with influential members of the local government, that I could do more with a law degree helping people attain basic needs like disability benefits, which are often denied outright.

This desire to help people get the help they need from local programs and government resources brought me to Scarborough, a small town outside of Toronto. I was aware of some of the issues afflicting this community, since I’d handled a few clients from there as a children’s disability social worker. Addiction and homelessness were the two main ones. I worked with children with ADHD or other physical/mental disabilities impairing their ability to attend school and function normally. I helped many of them get an IEP with the details of the special services they require, long overdue. I made sure each child got the care they needed, including special attention in school. Also noticing that so many of these families lacked proper nutrition, I organized a report detailing this finding. In it, I argued that the community needed more funds targeting lowest income families. I spoke directly with a legislator, which eventually got the city on board with developing a program more specifically for the lowest income families with residents under 18.

My goal has always been to be a voice for the inaudible, the ignored, who’ve been victimized by inadequate oversight from the ground up. Many of these groups, as I’ve witnessed firsthand, don’t have the luxury of being their own advocates. They are too busy trying to support their families, to put food on the table for their children. I’ve realized that it isn’t quite enough to work directly with these families to connect them with resources and ensure they get the support they need. Sometimes the support simply doesn’t exist, or it isn’t good enough. This is why I’m motivated to add a law degree to my credentials so I can better serve these people and communities. As a future social-security disability lawyer, I want to work with local governments to assist clients in navigating an assistance system and improving it as much as possible. This program will give me the access to a learning environment in which I can thrive and develop as an advocate.

Law School Personal Statement #18

“You’re worthy and loved”, I said to a twelve-year-old boy, Connor, whom I was supervising and spending time with during the Big Brother program at which we met. A few tears touched my shoulder as I pulled him into me, comforting him. He was a foster child. He didn’t know his parents and never stayed in one place longer than a few months; a year if he was lucky. I joined the program not expecting much. I was doing it for extra credit, because I wanted to give back to the community somehow and I thought it would be interesting to meet people. He confided in me; he told me that his foster parents often yelled at each other, and him. He told me he needed to escape. I called Child Protective Services and after a thorough investigation, they determined that Connor’s foster parents weren’t fit for fostering. He was moved, yet again, to a different home.

I wrote an op-ed detailing my experience as a Big Brother. I kept names anonymous. I wanted people to know how hard it was for children in the welfare system. Many of them, like Connor, were trapped in a perpetual cycle of re-homing, neglect, and even abuse. He and other children deserve stability and unconditional love. That should go without saying. I sent the op-ed to a local magazine and had it published. In it, I described not only the experience of one unfortunate kid, but many others as well who saw their own stories being told through Connor. I joined a non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to quality education for young people. I started learning about disparities in access; students excluded by racial or financial barriers. I was learning, one step at a time, how powerful words can be.

With the non-profit organization, I reached out to a few public schools in the area to represent some of our main concerns with quality of education disparities. Our goal was to bring resources together and promote the rights of children in education. We emphasized that collaboration between welfare agencies and schools was critical for education stability. Together, we created a report of recommendations to facilitate this collaboration. We outlined a variety of provisions, including more mechanisms for child participation, better recruitment of social service workers in schools, risk management and identification strategies, and better support for students with child protection concerns.

The highlight of that experience was talking to an assembly of parents and school faculty to present our findings and recommendations. The title of the presentation was “The Power of Words”. I opened with the story I wrote about in the op-ed. I wanted to emphasize that children are individuals; those trapped in the welfare system are not a monolith. They each have unique experiences, needs, and desires they want to fulfill in life. But our tools to help them can be improved, more individualized. I spoke about improving the quality of residential care for children and the need to promote their long-term development into further education and employment. Finally, I presented a list of tools we created to help support a more financially sustainable and effective child welfare system. The talk was received with applause and a tenuous commitment from a few influential members of the crowd. It was a start.

Although I lost contact with Connor, I think about him almost every day. I can only hope that the programs we worked on to improve were helping him, wherever he was. I want to continue to work on the ground level of child welfare amelioration, but I realize I will need an education in law to become a more effective advocate for this cause. There are still many problems in the child welfare system that will need to be addressed: limited privacy/anonymity for children, service frameworks that don’t address racism adequately, limited transportation in remote communities, and many more. I’ve gained valuable experience working with the community and learning about what the welfare system lacks and does well. I’m ready to take the next step for myself, my community, and those beyond it.

Assuredly, but this length varies from school to school. As with all important details of your law school application, thoroughly research your specific schools’ requirements and guidelines before both writing and editing your personal statement to ensure it fits their specifics. The average length is about 2 pages, but don’t bother drafting your statement until you have specific numbers from your schools of choice. It’s also a good idea to avoid hitting the maximum length unless absolutely necessary. Be concise, keep economy of language in mind, and remain direct, without rambling or exhaustive over-explanation of your ideas or experiences.

You should keep any words that aren’t your own to a minimum. Admissions committees don’t want to read a citation-heavy academic paper, nor do they respond well to overused famous quotes as themes in personal statements. If you absolutely must include a quote from elsewhere, be sure to clearly indicate your quote’s source. But in general, it’s best to keep the personal statement restricted to your own words and thoughts. They’re evaluating you, not Plato! It’s a personal statement. Give them an engaging narrative in your own voice. 

Admissions committees will already have a strong sense of your academic performance through your transcripts and test scores, so discussing these in your personal statement is generally best avoided. You can contextualize these things, though—if you have an illuminating or meaningful story about how you came to receive an award, or how you enjoyed or learned from the work that won you the award, then consider discussing it. Overall though, it’s best to let admissions committees evaluate your academic qualifications and accomplishments from your transcripts and official documents, and give them something new in the personal statement. 

When you first sit down to begin, cast a wide net. Consider all the many influences and experiences that have led you to where you are. You’ll eventually (through editing and rewriting) explain how these shape your relationship to a career in law, but one of the best things you can give yourself during the initial drafting phase is a vast collection of observations and potential points for development. As the New England School of Law points out in their, “just write!” Let the initial draft be as messy as it needs to be, and refine it from there. It’s a lot easier to condense and sharpen a big draft than it is to try to tensely craft a perfect personal statement from nothing.  

Incredibly important, as should be clear by now! Unlike other specialties, law schools don’t usually conduct interviews with applicants, so your personal statement is in effect your one opportunity to speak with the admissions committee directly. Don’t let that gravity overwhelm you when you write, but keep it in mind as you edit and dedicate time to improving your initial drafts. Be mindful of your audience as you speak with them, and treat writing your personal statement as a kind of initial address in what, hopefully, will eventually turn into an ongoing dialogue.  

There are a variety of factors that can make or break a law school personal statement. You should aim to achieve at least a few of the following: a strong opening hook; a compelling personal narrative; your skills and competencies related to law; meaningful experiences; why you’re the right fit for the school and program.

Often, they do. It’s best for you to go to the schools you’re interesting in applying to so you can find out if they have any specific formatting or content requirements. For example, if you wanted to look at NYU law or Osgoode Hall Law School , you would find their admissions requirements pages and look for information on the personal statement.

There are lots of reasons why a personal statement might not work. Usually, applicants who don’t get accepted didn’t come up with a good strategy for this essay. Remember, you need to target the specific school and program. Other reasons are that the applicant doesn’t plan or proofread their essay. Both are essential for submitting materials that convince the admissions committee that you’re a strong candidate. You can always use law school admissions consulting application review to help you develop your strategy and make your essay stand out.

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Have a question ask our admissions experts below and we'll answer your questions.

How long should a Personal Statement be? Is there any rule on that?

BeMo Academic Consulting

Hello V! Thanks for your question. Some schools will gave very specific word limits, while some will not. If you do not have a limit indicated, try to stick to no more than a page, 600-800 words. 

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