Aside from your resume and recommendation letters, another essential part of your application package to law school is your personal statement. Oftentimes, it is your personal statement that will make or break your chances of getting into law school. This is why it pays off to invest time and effort in your personal statement. This article will cover some of the mistakes that people commonly make on their law school personal statements.
Writing an extension of your resume
A common mistake that is made on personal statements is merely extending or repeating the information given in the resume. Remember that your resume and your personal statement are two separate and different requirements. Your resume should highlight your achievements, experience, and training. The personal statement, on the other hand, should talk about how you have developed as a person through these experiences that you have had.
Exaggerating, boasting, and lying
Sure you want to present your best qualities when you are applying to law school, but this does not mean that you should exaggerate, boast, or lie about who you are and what you have accomplished. The fastest way to get your application rejected is to get caught submitting dishonest information about yourself. Admissions evaluators are trained well and have extensive experience, making it easy for them to spot dishonesty of any sort. Being honest is an admirable and respectable trait that can help admissions committees make an unbiased and sound decision.
Equating your goals with money
Many people even enter into law school hoping that it will lead them to financial stability and a wealthy lifestyle. Still, there is no reason to mention your intention of getting rich through your law education. Instead, try to talk about your objectives and goals in light of the justice and equality that law strives to keep in place. Besides, admissions committees are already aware of the high salaries that many lawyers earn. Mentioning money as a reason for entering into law school may give the impression that you are materialistic or that you have your priorities mixed up.
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