Your Personal Statement

The personal statement you include with your law school application is a chance for you to show the school who you are — and to give the admission committee insight into your personality, writing ability, and life experiences. There’s no formula for a strong personal statement (besides following the instructions and/or writing prompt provided by the law school), but here’s some guidance to keep in mind as you write this important component of your application.

Depth, Not Breadth

Personal statements are typically two to three pages (500-750 words) long, although law schools will often provide you with length and formatting guidelines. If you try to discuss everything that’s happened to you since you were born, every life event will get only a sentence or two. Instead, you want to share enough detail that the admission professional reviewing your application will feel like they know you and can envision you as a part of their student body.

Keep in mind, though, that writing down all your significant life events could be an important part of your writing process. In the brainstorming stage, write down everything you think might be a possible topic, then set your list aside for a day or two. When you come back with fresh eyes, try to identify one or two related topics that you can use to write a compelling narrative.

Make It About You

If a family member or mentor inspired you to apply to law school, that’s great — but remember that you’re the person who’s applying. It’s OK to mention that family member or mentor and share the ways they’ve affected your life, but then, be sure to shift the lens back to you: How did that person inspire you? What do you want to change on their behalf? And how did they change the way you view the world? You are the main character in this story!

Don’t Narrate Your Application

Law schools will look at your résumé, transcripts, and other application components closely, so don’t duplicate a story they’ll already be able to piece together. If you’re going to share a story about a class or work experience, make sure you go deeper than what can be found elsewhere in your application. Above all, be sure your statement covers why you want to go to law school and the skills or talents you think will most help you succeed in a legal career. Remember: Depth, not breadth!

Polish It

In addition to telling the admission committee what matters to you in your own voice, the personal statement is a writing sample. Edit it carefully and ensure you have a compelling narrative, as well as correct spelling and grammar.

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