LSAT Addendum Help Needed Forum

[justbeingme]

Please help! What do you guys think of this LSAT Addendum ??


When reviewing my application for admittance to your law school, please take into consideration that my LSAT score does not accurately reflect my potential to succeed at your law school. Standardized test scores have underestimated my academic potential in the past, as these scores did not accurately predict my academic success for the reason that I extremely get nervous. The day before and during the exam I experience lack sleep and often panic during the exam which limits my ability to perform during such a rigorous exam. After my unsatisfactory score in February 2009, I took a professional preparation course and prepared twelve months, studying 15-20 hours weekly. My real LSAT score on the practice exams are ranging from mid and upper ____.


I know historically the candidate’s LSAT scores have been the best indicator of how that student will fare in law school. I can only hope that my resume, academic success, and background will provide the basis for viewing my performance on my true ability to succeed as a student at ________ Law School. I hope that my application taken as a whole indicates that the LSAT alone does not accurately evaluate my determination, academic curiosity or my potential to be a noteworthy addition to your institution.

[raperez129]

Do you have another score since your Feb 2009 exam?
I think it is common and a bit long.

1 - I don't suggest that you mention being a poor perfomer on standardized tests. You will have to take the bar exam, and it will be a standardized test.

2 - EVERYONE who does poor on the LSAT says it is not an accurate reflection. You must find a way to highlight what is more accurate for you, without pulling this card.

3 - EVERYONE has nerves and panic on LSAT day, and is a bit sleep deprived. Again, you don't want to bring attention to this, because as an attorney, nerves, panic and sleep deprivation won't work as an explanation for messing up at a trial.

I hope it didn't seem I was flaming you. I think you just need to revise it a bit.

[Waggly Toast]

As I read your Addendum I was thinking, "You paid for a professional course, prepared 12 months, studied 15 - 20 hours a week, scored high on your practice exams, and completely fell apart on test day? Do you not think law school exams are rigorous and nerve-racking? Do you think you'll perform well on those? What about the bar? What will happen to you the first time you stand in front of a judge? a jury? an intimidating, well-prepared, and intense attorney out for blood?" I think I would rethink my strategy if I were you.

The only reason why I would recommend you keep such a statement would be if you gave concrete examples of past exam scores and your academic achievements despite the low exam scores.

[T14_Scholly]

Yeah, one thing the law school ad comm won't know from your app is your SAT score, so you could give them that if it is low and your undergrad GPA is high. I think some schools even invite addenda to this effect (having a history of poor performance on standardized tests despite solid academic performance) on their apps.

[justbeingme]

Thank you all for your input and your feedback. I have revised my addendum. Please let me know your thoughts! Also, English is my second language. Feel free to correct me if you catch any grammar issues!


Dear law school admissions committee

When reviewing my application for admittance to your law school, please take into consideration that my LSAT score does not accurately reflect my potential to succeed at your law school. I learn best through experience. My multiple LSAT scores are a reflection of this trend. Knowing that my first two attempts were not representative of my potential, I took a professional preparation course, refocused my studying and utilized the experience to aid my approach of the exam. I wanted to prove I am capable of performing well on the exam and to demonstrate my ability as a potential law student.


I know historically the candidate’s LSAT scores have been the best indicator of how that student will fare in law school. I can only hope that my resume, academic success, and background, and my improvement on the LSAT score will provide the basis for viewing my performance on my true ability to succeed as a student at ________ Law School. I hope that my application along with my background taken as a whole indicates that the LSAT alone does not accurately evaluate my determination, academic curiosity or my potential to be a noteworthy addition to your institution.