The personal statement is a short essay that explains why the applicant wants to attend law school and what their future ambitions are. Typically you can re-use the same personal statement for most applications, however, some schools may have specific questions they want you to address, therefore it is common to have to write multiple versions.
In your personal statement, address questions like:
- Who are you?
- What are your interests?
- Why do you want to go to law school?
- What do you hope to do with a law degree?
Your personal statement should be genuine and sound like you. Do not use it as an opportunity to use complicated legal jargon and show off your vocabulary. Editing and revising is EXTREMELY important! Many people should read this. You cannot simply sit down in one sitting and be done, it should go through multiple drafts and NOT be written the night before applications are due.
Resources for writing personal statements:
- UConn Writing Center
- Center for Career Development
- Faculty mentors
- Internship or work supervisors, especially if they are in the field
- Family or friends who can speak to your authenticity coming through
Some law schools will have additional required or optional essays, which are commonly referred to as supplemental essays. Some examples of common prompts for these include:
- Why do you want to attend this law school / program?
- Essays about diversity, your background, etc.