Personal statement for target school Forum

[studebaker07]

The school I want to transfer into has a strict limit for personal statements for prospective transfers, only allowing 1 double-spaced page.

Within that limited space, I tried to write as much as I could about the school highlighting a program that I am interested in and noting my strong interest in the school. The only problem is I am not sure if it is strong enough of an interest. I mean, is simply stating that you have a strong interest in the school, that you are interested in several specific classes at the school, and that you have some practical experience that will bring value to the school enough relevant information to include in a personal statement?

I would be interested in sharing my personal statement with anyone who is interested so I can get your thoughts.

[iheartlaw]

hmm, i would also suggest that if you can add why the location, is important to you. possibly even highlight a few of their faculty members. for the most part, i think you are on the right track, and in addition to professional experience, maybe try to highlight a personal experience, and what you will bring to the school. pm me if you would like me to take a look at it. i can try to give you my 2 cents.

[studebaker07]

Thanks for the feedback. I am in a unique situation because this school is in the same city as the school I am currently attending and when I applied to the school originally, they waitlisted me. So I am banking on some kind of a lift from the fact that they are probably already familiar with me. I did put a reference to one of the foremost professors at the school who I took an undergrad course from.

Other than that, I tried to focus more on the course offerings at the school and highlighted how broad they were.

I will PM you what I have to perhaps you can give me some more of your thoughts.

[iheartlaw]

I would include something to the effect of how, you really wanted to attend school X, but you were waitlisted, so you gave your best effort at the school you currently attend and made plans to transfer. something about realizing your dream, or achieving your desired end result. i think the fact that the school you currently attend is in the same location as the school you wish to attend, will really help you. it shows that you are committed to practicing in the area.

[Jordan77]

Hey Studebaker, since I know which school you are applying to and such. If you need things to highlight in your personal statement besides "I just like your school better" they have an outstanding clinical program (which I believe the school you are coming from doesn't even come close to). Furthermore, there is a wealth of opportunity to engage in Pro Bono activities to help the community through the law school.

I participated in a clinic last semester and thought it was outstanding, so I would suggest for you to research the clinics and see if any of them call your name as that might provide some more substance to your statement. Furthermore, if you like helping out the community I would mention the Pro Bono stuff... they even let you graduate with Pro Bono distinction.

Good luck with everything!

[megaTTTron]

Check the section on PSs: http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/v ... 7&t=118669

[studebaker07]

Thanks for all the answers everybody. I submitted my application yesterday so we will see what happens. I tweaked my PS a little more to talk specifically about a clinical program I was interested and went into detail about how I wanted to stay in the area that this school is located in.

Check the section on PSs: http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/v ... 7&t=118669

I checked this topic out before I started writing my PS and I found it very helpful. Thank you mega!

Good luck to everyone else on their transfers.