First-Generation College Student Forum

[maverickd11]

Does this factor play a role in the ls admissions process the same way it does for undergrad admission? If my personal statement revolves around this issue, is that okay? Or should I submit it as a diversity statement and pick another topic as my personal statement? (Do diversity statements really only revolve around race? I feel like that's what people really mean when they use that term and just spin it so it doesn't seem to be the case.)

Thanks for any responses! The whole process is nerve-racking.

(What I mean by the subject title is that neither of my parents hold a BA, my father not even a HS Diploma. The subject of my personal statement, or possibly my diversity statement, revolves around this somewhat underrepresented, I guess, perspective.)

[blackwater88]

Probably not, we're already URMs here, that's a big enough boost I would say.

Oh, and if you want to write your PS about being a first generation student, I don't see how that would be a bad idea. Just write about a meaningful event that had an impact on your life, how you dealt with it, and why that puts in better light who you are as a law school prospective student.

[hijodehombre]

just make sure your PS doesn't go this route:

http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/v ... 2&t=129292

[DavidYurman85]

i'm not sure how much of a boost you would get, but the vibe i get around this board is that it could help if adcomms are deciding between you and a similarly situated candidate.

should you decide to write this statement, make sure the content is focused on you and your experiences and not too much on your parents.

g/l!

[maverickd11]

just make sure you're PS doesn't go this route:

http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/v ... 2&t=129292

LOL, of course not. I in no way intend to produce anything similar. I just think it complements my application since it's played a role in my life, especially while at college. Obviously it's no excuse for less-than-stellar stats, nor is it anywhere near as important as my numbers. It does, however, put into context things found elsewhere on the application, such as ECs, interests, etc, which I highlight in the essay.

I guess what I was really interested in was how to best convey this reality, how it's been channeled, and how to go about doing so. I didn't even know a "diversity statement" existed until I really started the ls app process. I don't remember it being available or an issue when I applied to college. I guess I was just wondering how similar applicants who are interested in discussing the issue, for reasons already stated, go about doing so.

Thanks for the feedback, btw!

[DavidYurman85]

btw - i think (someone correct me if i'm wrong) that some applications ask about first generation status so if you're concerned about them knowing, then there will be a place to include this info.

i'm a first-gen also and i come from a working-class family where education was viewed as a burden. however, my experience has been quite the contrary because it is through education that i have received so many great opportunities. my ps/ds will likely include a narrative about the above.

[hijodehombre]

btw - i think (someone correct me if i'm wrong) that some applications ask about first generation status so if you're concerned about them knowing, then there will be a place to include this info.

i'm a first-gen also and i come from a working-class family where education was viewed as a burden. however, my experience has been quite the contrary because it is through education that i have received so many great opportunities. my ps/ds will likely include a narrative about the above.

Exactly. Make this the highlight of your PS.