As a law school admissions consultant for 20 years, I’ve read A LOT of Personal Statements. There are things a candidate can do to their essay that will make it SO much easier to read and worthwhile for us to give our attention to. Here are some tips on what NOT to do…..
1. Don’t WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE. Contrary to what you think, you don’t do your best work under pressure. A Personal Statement that’s rushed, has some typos, and meanders will not make a good impression.
2. Don’t IGNORE WHAT THE APPLICATION ASKS. Know what each school you’re applying to wants in your PS- and give it to them.
3. Don’t BEGIN WITH A QUOTE. I know some recommend this, I don’t. Why waste the limited amount of space you have for your essay on someone else’s words?
The Personal Statement can make up for low numbers and is the most important part of your application. Treat it that way.
…… Dr. Michelle
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