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I have a situation that I'm unsure of, so I figured I could turn here for some advice. I took a year off between high school and college before enrolling full-time (16 credits) at a local university. Due to circumstances outside of my control (major family issues due to my alcoholic father and some subsequent depression/anxiety on my end), I ended up flunking all of my classes. Straight F's. Great, huh?

My confidence completely destroyed, I took a whopping 6 years off from college to work. I got married, had a child and got divorced before enrolling in school through Penn State. I've been working full time, attending school full time (double-majoring) and I'm a single mother. I'm currently sitting at a 3.97 cumulative GPA at Penn State, which I have worked extremely hard for. I have one year left before I get to graduate with my Bachelor's degree (YAY!) and I'm looking at applying for law school.

My question is this: Do I even have a chance with any T-14 law schools at this point? Although I've maintained an excellent GPA at Penn State and have taken rigorous courses while also balancing a full time job and a child, I'm worried that my first semester in college will completely ruin my chances at success. I'm extremely passionate about law, and it's my dream to become a lawyer. Additionally, I managed to score a 170 on the LSAT.

PLEASE be honest about my chances at a T-14 school. I'm looking for genuine advice over here! Thank you so very much!

-Bri-

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u didn't list ur lsac gpa, but
hypothetically, if u flunked 16 credits and have 120 credits w/ 3.97 gpa, that's around 3.5
w/ 3.5/170, apply ccn on down
almost certainly will land lower t14, v possibly w/ $
gl in ur cycle

Congratulations on your hard work toward your degree! While definitely not an expert on admissions, I think you have a very compelling story to tell the adcomms. FWIW, I know that Berkeley specifically asks about child care responsibilities during your studies on their application, and they're known for taking a more holistic approach toward admissions.

Best of luck with your cycle next year!

ya, that's tru, but berk is also the least splitter-friendly outside of hys/chi, so manage ur expectations op

1) calculate lsacgpa
2) mylsn.info for chances
3) ????
4) profit

Brut wrote:u didn't list ur lsac gpa, but
hypothetically, if u flunked 16 credits and have 120 credits w/ 3.97 gpa, that's around 3.5
w/ 3.5/170, apply ccn on down
almost certainly will land lower t14, v possibly w/ $
gl in ur cycle

I say to hit up the whole T14. The 170 will get your application looked at by everyone and schools are pushing for more experienced students. Plus you have a compelling life story. I think you actually have a shot at HYS.

Congrats on your achievements! Not only does Berkeley ask about child care commitments on the resume, they also have a scholarship for single parents I believe- I am not sure if other schools have similar scholarships as well. Additionally, you have great material for a diversity statement.