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Hi there,

I'm applying to the T14 and many of the T25. From several credible sources, I've been told that having a full page in my 3-4 page essays (for schools that accept/encourage essays this length) devoted to reasons I wish to attend the school (its clinics, journals, classes) is too much.

Do you agree -- should I save my expression of interest in specific clinics/programs/etc. for a "Why X" addendum?

Thanks!

ps. Keep in mind my LSAT/GPA: 167/3.58 (from an Ivy). As a marginal candidate for the T14 (I'm retaking in October, but no guarantees), I am trying to write very good essays.

Does parotting what you've read in the school's viewbook tell the adcomms anything about you as a person? No.

It's called a personal statement for a reason. Now, if you're writing a 'Why X,' or a LOCI after being waitlisted, that's another story.

If you can tie some particular aspect of the school to something in your essay and explain why that one thing means so very much to you, go right ahead. But don't just list off a bunch of stuff from the brochure as reasons you want to go there. They don't need to be informed about their own school--presumably, they are aware of the clinics and journals, etc.