Top Law Schools

Is it a poor choice to include sexual preference as a major theme in my personal statement (for application at T14 schools)? I fear it could sound preachy--or, at worst, irrelevant to law school--but IMO my experience of "being gay" is a huge determinant of my desire to practice the legal profession. This is supported by academic bona fides and professional work, i.e. equal rights political campaigns, and work at a major LGBT advocacy law firm. I would find it difficult to explain 'who I am as a person' without substantial reference to my sexuality.

Another option would be to draft the Yale 250 about sexual preference, and shorten this essay to include as a diversity statement with other application, though I am weary of claiming "diversity" per se. Surely at most top schools being gay is, if anything, an application boost.

Thoughts?

(For reference: GPA 3.92 LSAT 172)

It shouldn't be a problem. It's a 'personal' statement after all. Just have people go over it to make sure. Your numbers are fairly solid, so you should have a pretty good cycle. Good luck!!

t-14orbust wrote:It shouldn't be a problem. It's a 'personal' statement after all. Just have people go over it to make sure. Your numbers are fairly solid, so you should have a pretty good cycle. Good luck!!

Thanks. My concern was more that it would seem like I was trying to overcome some adversity that did not really exist (liberal family, liberal area).

If you don't want it to sound that way, then don't write it that way. You'll be okay

whsokolove wrote:

t-14orbust wrote:It shouldn't be a problem. It's a 'personal' statement after all. Just have people go over it to make sure. Your numbers are fairly solid, so you should have a pretty good cycle. Good luck!!

Thanks. My concern was more that it would seem like I was trying to overcome some adversity that did not really exist (liberal family, liberal area).

You can discuss your passion for a topic because of your connection to it without going full martyr. Just make that clear when you write it.