What looks better for softs Forum

[badgerpride2010]

this summer i have an opportunity to either study abroad in the Czech Republic, focusing in my major field (comparative political science and political economics) OR i have an opportunity to intern at the UN as well. What would look better on a Law School app?

[vanwinkle]

Softs are called softs because they matter less than hard numbers. Both of those things will look very good, but neither will be worth significantly more than the other in terms of making you stand out. They'll both strongly reinforce your numbers and the rest of your application. Choose whichever you want to do more, and do that.

I'd do the UN internship, but that's because I think a chance to work at the UN for a year would be cool. You may want to go to the Czech Republic more. It's up to you.

[nycparalegal]

Here it is:

LSAT
GPA

Rhodes Scholar
Fulbright

Peace Corps, Teach for America

That's about it. Nothing else will make an impact on your application.

[jks289]

Do what sounds more interesting to you without worrying about applications. The only time softs matter (and yes they do matter occasionally) is when they give you material to write a compelling personal statement, or generally become a better rounded and interesting human being. Both sound pretty cool. Enjoy your time!

[englawyer]

Here it is:

LSAT
GPA

Rhodes Scholar
Fulbright

Peace Corps, Teach for America

That's about it. Nothing else will make an impact on your application.

lol Marshall doesn't count?

[PrayingforHYS]

Here it is:

LSAT
GPA

Rhodes Scholar
Fulbright

Peace Corps, Teach for America

That's about it. Nothing else will make an impact on your application.

...an overly cynical view and not entirely accurate either. At the end of the day, LSAT and GPA are clearly the two most important factors, but you're inevitably going to be in direct competition/close to a number of applicants at the schools to which you're applying, so even if GPA/LSAT make up 90% of your app, the PS and softs are still a big 10%..

with that being said, i agree with the first reply that neither will probably stand out more than the other--so do whichever one you prefer.