Best EC's & Softs Forum

[rmansoor]

So, I got 3 to 4 years before I apply for law school. Yes, I'm going to focus on my GPA & the LSAT. But I'm curious about EC's & softs.

3 to 4 years is plenty of time to round out my EC's and softs. I'm just wondering what softs are excellent, over the top but realistic? Like, I'm obviously not going to take a year off to help the children in the Congo or find the cure for cancer. It's just not reasonable.

And please don't tell me, do what you like. I like A LOT of things. I just want to know what are stellar areas my EC's should focus on. Like, I could become the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG National Champion. But I don't know if that's a good EC or not.

Thanks!!

[Tautology]

I'm going to frustrate you with my answer, but I believe it to be the truth. There aren't any real "areas" that pop out to admins. What pops out to admins are dedication and excellence. Pick something you love doing, because that's what it's easy to dedicate yourself to and therefore easier to excel at.

[amputatedbrain]

IMO, the best activities are the ones that show a combination of (1) leadership/initiative, (2) dedication to service/helping others, (3) experience that will mature you as a person. As long as it touches those bases and you're a good enough writer to make a compelling PS, there's no hard and fast list like you're hoping for.

There are many "helping kids in the Congo" sort of activities that have above characteristics that you don't have to travel far for . . . local Habitat for Humanity projects come to mind, but there's many out there.

[rulagi]

IMO, the best activities are the ones that show a combination of (1) leadership/initiative, (2) dedication to service/helping others, (3) experience that will mature you as a person. As long as it touches those bases and you're a good enough writer to make a compelling PS, there's no hard and fast list like you're hoping for.

There are many "helping kids in the Congo" sort of activities that have above characteristics that you don't have to travel far for . . . local Habitat for Humanity projects come to mind, but there's many out there.

After looking at the numbers of the other admits to the school I'll be attending, I'd say military service was an awesome soft. I was .3 below the 25% GPA and within the range for LSAT but was still admitted with $$.

Granted, it's not possible to commit full time for a few years like I did, but if the OP is in decent shape, take a summer to go to boot camp and do the weekend warrior thing. Plus, you might pick up some $$ for school.