173 / 3.58 - softs & quirky GPA, help! Forum

[cmxivkk]

Thank you!

[Clemenceau]

I had very similar numbers and a very similar gpa trend. I was satisfied with how my cycle turned out, but I wouldn't say I outperformed my numbers, really.

To be perfectly honest, an upward gpa trend and some law firm work experience is pretty par for the course in top law school admissions. The good news is that lsat score will treat you very well.

[cmxivkk]

Thanks! Helpful and much appreciated. I take it it's not worth presenting any kind of explanation of my first three semesters (I was repeatedly hospitalized and so on and so forth, so there IS technically proof)?

It's not something I love talking about, honestly, but if it WOULD make a difference in my app it's something I'd want to be a known factor.

[cavalier1138]

Just FYI, my friends who are going into academia are all pursuing PhDs in addition to their JD, so be prepared for that possibility. It's very trendy these days.

You are one of the rare people who might benefit from a GPA addendum, but a 3.58 isn't bad. You should probably be in at CCN, possibly with decent money. And yes, you should try and get an academic LOR. Having at least one, especially if you've been out of school for a bit, is extremely helpful.

[cmxivkk]

I have an academic - from a law professor who taught me, actually, who should have a good sense of whether I could hack it (I hope!). I was planning to request a second from my thesis advisor - along with a third professional rec. Decent plan...?


And yes, the PhD is my next step. Can't wait.

[floatie]

You can write a GPA addendum if you want, but your GPA isn't going to keep you out of any school besides HYS, and your LSAT is good enough to make up for any other school where its below average.

Are you in touch with any of your professors still? The unofficial rule of thumb is that if you've been out of school for less than 3 years, you should get an academic LOR,

[cavalier1138]

I have an academic - from a law professor who taught me, actually, who should have a good sense of whether I could hack it (I hope!). I was planning to request a second from my thesis advisor - along with a third professional rec. Decent plan...?


And yes, the PhD is my next step. Can't wait.

Yes, those letter writers sound like good choices.