Extenuating Circumstances - GPA/Medical Diagnosis Forum

[angelamariek]

Hi everyone!

I have a question regarding the admissions process and how extenuating circumstances are taken into account.

I have just completed my junior year of college, and I am currently studying for the LSAT.

My first semester of college (fall of my freshman year) my academic performance was DREADFUL. So dreadful that my GPA for the semester was below a 1.00. I was unable to focus, and found it difficult to even be present in class, and my grades reflected that. I did well in high school, but never had to study, so this had never been a problem.

After that first semester, I underwent extensive psychiatric testing and was diagnosed with and treated for ADD. Since then, I have consistently done very well in school, and without taking into my account my first semester, I have a GPA of 3.82. However, when taking into account my first semester, my cumulative GPA is a 3.2.

While I have not yet taken the LSAT, my practice test scores range from 170-174. I have been involved in college, have experience in multiple professional settings, and have held several jobs in my time as an undergraduate.

My question is: The difference between a 3.2 and 3.82 is huge, and that first semester has the potential to SEVERELY limit my choice of law schools. In the admissions process, what is the likelihood that schools would be willing to take into account my medical history and corresponding academic success? I would be able to provide documentation from my doctor confirming this, and my transcript speaks for itself. Will my first semester of college destroy my chances of attending a respectable law school, or is there a possibility that these circumstances could be accounted for in the admissions process?

Thank you so much for your help!!!!!!!!

[mornincounselor]

The number that will stand it the LSAC determined GPA. This includes every course you took during the course of your initial Bachelors degree. Lots of people do poorly their first year, it's not that uncommon.

With a 3.2, especially with the range of LSATs you are expecting to hit, you will still have reasonably good choices. You can (and should) write a GPA addendum explaining the circumstances, but the schools are still reporting your LSAC determined GPA so it will not be all that game-changing.

[3pianists]

Law schools are looking out for their GPA/LSAT statistics. While you may be able to demonstrate that you can outperform your GPA and have the stuff to be academically successful in law school, they still have to report your 3.2, and they don't get to add an addendum. You should definitely focus on crushing the LSAT so that you're raising their median in that category, since you'll be pulling down their median with your GPA.

That said, I would definitely include the addendum.

[Rigo]

You can still go to a respectable law school as a splitter. Unfortunately, it will cost you a lot more than a 3.8. Knock that LSAT out of the park.