personal statement topic help Forum

[lalaa85]

So I have a PS prepared about my experience studying abroad in Ghana for a semester, and how my experiences with police corruption there and at the border really made me value justice etc.. However, I also read somewhere that this is a really cliche topic and that it will bore law school admissions. I was wondering what other people's opinions are about this PS? and whether or not i should scrap it and write about something else?

[CanadianWolf]

Could be good, great or poor depending upon how you write it. Need a draft before meaningful critiques can be offered.

[Abraham Lincoln Uni.]

Hello There!

I hope all is well.

It seems you have a lot of good material to write about in terms of your experience in Ghana, which will lead to a strong and interesting essay depending on your writing style. It’s all about your audience and what information you can write to keep them interested in your essay. Do not necessarily worry if your topic is boring or cliche because it is a genuine experience you want to write about, which caught your interest in law.

Also keep in mind, it takes many drafts and rough cuts of a personal statement before you get it to where you want it to be. Get people to read your drafts and give feedback on what sounds interesting and genuine.

Best of luck and I am sure whatever topic you choose, it will be great!

[AlexandraHope]

I think that you will be fine. Ghana is not a "traditional" study abroad country. The advice that you mentioned, is usually targeted at those of us who've studied in Western Europe and places like that.

[GnosisExchange]

Post removed.

[cheeseballs]

I grappled with a very similar issue last cycle. Basically, I needed to find some kimd of a way to spin encountering "justice issues" + non-traditional study abroad in a way that is not overwrought. It was a challenge to fimd the right angle, but I did ultimately. I am not at my computer now to send you my ps, but do pm me for it if you want.