School Rep / Personal Statement Forum

[JDLaf]

A couple questions for everyone. Be honest as well.

I am currently in the process of applying to law schools and the Air Force's law program (I am active duty currently). Seeing as I would already have a job upon graduation from law school (AF JAG) how big of a factor should I place on the school's reputation? Obviously it is a big factor if I wasn't guarenteed a job upon graduation.

Also, how much of an emphasis should I place in my personal statement that I am actve duty military, having completed 3 deployments to OIF at the time of application? From what I understand most schools want a diverse population of students and I believe being active duty military with multiple deployments could help my out my case but please correct me if I am wrong.

Any insights/comments would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Georgiana]

Would'n't the military pay for the degree?

There is a 1L here doing a similar program and the military is paying for everything.

If they're paying, go to the best school you can, no debt, great education, and good options for when you get out of the military (whether its retirement or before that).

[JDLaf]

Georgiana,
Thanks for the response! Yes, the military would pay for everything but I really want to stay in my general area, which has some GREAT schools but also has a few "safe" schools that I know I can get into. If I do get accepted into the AF program then I am definitely staying in the AF until I retire because by the time I finish law school I will have over 9 years in plus another 6 year commitment. I'm just worried I may not get into the great schools that are in my area. If you don't mind me asking what school are you attending?

[Georgiana]

Georgiana,
Thanks for the response! Yes, the military would pay for everything but I really want to stay in my general area, which has some GREAT schools but also has a few "safe" schools that I know I can get into. If I do get accepted into the AF program then I am definitely staying in the AF until I retire because by the time I finish law school I will have over 9 years in plus another 6 year commitment. I'm just worried I may not get into the great schools that are in my area. If you don't mind me asking what school are you attending?

I'm at Penn.

I def think its worth it to stay in until you retire at that point, but I'm not sure sacrificing a good school for an area (unless you are married and she has a great job in the area/you have kids) especially if you won't be taking on any debt.

I'd say keep your options open, apply to a bunch of places, and see what happens in the end.