personal statement berkeley law

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Written Statements

The written statements of an application consist of:

• Personal statement (2-4 pages double spaced)
• Optional supplemental essays such as the diversity statement
• Addendum (optional)

Personal Statements

This statement is a critical sample of your ability to write, as well as an opportunity to tell the admissions committee about yourself. Since most schools do not conduct interviews, the statement represents an opportunity for you to present yourself as more than just a GPA and an LSAT score. With so many applicants possessing identical qualifications, the statement can be the critical factor that distinguishes you from the applicant pool. What you say in your statement can also help you offset weaknesses in your application. So, take writing the statement very seriously.

Most schools are interested in why you are choosing to pursue a legal education now and learning about the unique qualities and experiences you will contribute to their incoming class. To get started, gather information about yourself including:

• Work, school and community experiences, such as positions you have held, volunteer opportunities, and projects you have participated in
• Extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports teams, leadership positions
• Personal challenges and experiences, including travel, disabilities, goals you have accomplished
• Unique talents or interests

Personal statement resources and samples:

• Crafting a Strong Personal Statement Narrative 
• In Their Own Words: Admissions Essays That Worked – University of Chicago Law School
• The Law School Personal Statement: A Collection – Schar School of Policy and Government

General Tips

• Write a concise narrative with one or two points. Go for quality over quantity.
• Tell a story where you are the main character and you changed, grew, or shifted your perspective.
• Write about any activity that shows off your best qualities. Review your classroom, student organization, work, and personal life for material.
• Show, don’t tell: conclusions should be self-evident. Well written statements use stories that illustrate your good qualities. You should not have to explicitly state them.
• Keep the focus on YOU, not an ill relative, remarkable client, or inner workings of an organization where you worked.
• Write several drafts and ask for feedback on early drafts.

Challenges, such as a string of low grades or a low LSAT score should be addressed in an addendum. Be brief and honest while offering a sympathetic explanation. Generally 1-2 short paragraphs is sufficient.

Berkeley Career Engagement UC Berkeley, CA 94720

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Application Requirements

Students are admitted to the program by the Graduate Division of the University of California, Berkeley, on recommendation of the Jurisprudence and Social Policy admissions committee.

Applications for entry in Fall 2024 opened on  September 15, 2023  and will close on December 15, 2023 at 8:59pm PST . ALL  application materials (including letters of recommendation for all applicants, and test scores for international applicants) must be received by the December 15 deadline.

All directions and requirements for applying to the PhD in Jurisprudence and Social Policy can be found in the Graduate Division Online Application

Along with the  Graduate Division forms , applicants are asked to submit:

•  transcripts of grades
•   three letters of recommendation (additional letters will not be read)
•  a statement of purpose (2-3 pages, double-spaced)
• a personal statement (2-3 pages, double-spaced)
• a sample of past written work (25-50 pages)

Beginning with the 2022-2023 application cycle (entry in Fall 2023), the GRE requirement is no longer required for the JSP Ph.D. and will not be reviewed.

International applicants will also need to fulfill the UC Berkeley Graduate Division's requirements for international students in addition to the application requirements. Information on TOEFL exemptions can be found in the link above.

If you have questions about the online application, please contact the Graduate Division at [email protected]

If you have questions about admission to the JSP Ph.D. program, please check out our FAQ then contact us at [email protected] if you have additional questions.

For admissions information regarding the J.D., contact: UC Berkeley School of Law J.D. Admissions Office 396 Simon Hall Berkeley, CA 94720-7200 Phone: (510) 642-2274  [email protected]

For admissions information regarding the LL.M. and J.S.D., contact: UC Berkeley School of Law Advanced Degree Programs 214 Boalt Hall #7200 Berkeley, CA 94720-7200 Phone: (510) 642-1476 [email protected]

Writing the Personal Statement

Helpful tips and advice for drafting a compelling personal statement when applying for graduate admission.

Make sure to check the appropriate program website to find out if your statement should include additional or specific information.

What does this statement need to accomplish?

The personal statement should give concrete evidence of your promise as a member of the academic community, giving the committee an image of you as a person.

This is also where you represent your potential to bring to your academic career a critical perspective rooted in a non-traditional educational background, or your understanding of the experiences of groups historically under-represented in higher education and your commitment to increase participation by a diverse population in higher education.

What kinds of content belongs here?

Anything that can give reviewers a sense of you as a person belongs here; you can repeat information about your experiences in your research statement, but any experiences that show your promise, initiative, and ability to persevere despite obstacles belongs here. This is also a good place to display your communication skills and discuss your ability to maximize effective collaboration with a diverse cross-section of the academic community. If you have faced any obstacles or barriers in your education, sharing those experiences serves both for the selection process, and for your nomination for fellowships. If one part of your academic record is not ideal, due to challenges you faced in that particular area, this is where you can explain that, and direct reviewers’ attention to the evidence of your promise for higher education.

The basic message: your academic achievement despite challenges

It is especially helpful for admissions committees considering nominating you for fellowships for diversity if you discuss any or all of the following:

• Demonstrated significant academic achievement by overcoming barriers such as economic, social, or educational disadvantage;
• attendance at a minority serving institution;
• ability to articulate the barriers facing women and minorities in science and engineering fields;
• participation in higher education pipeline programs such as, UC Leads, or McNair Scholars;
• Academic service advancing equitable access to higher education for women and racial minorities in fields where they are underrepresented;
• Leadership experience among students from groups that have been historically underrepresented in higher education;
• research that addresses issues such as race, gender, diversity, and inclusion;
• research that addresses health disparities, educational access and achievement, political engagement, economic justice, social mobility, civil and human rights, and other questions of interest to historically underrepresented groups;
• artistic expression and cultural production that reflects culturally diverse communities or voices not well represented in the arts and humanities.

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8 October 2023

5 minutes read

Crafting Your Berkeley Law Personal Statement: A Guide to Stand Out

Dirghayu Kaushik

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• Introduction

When it comes to securing a spot at Berkeley Law, your personal statement can make all the difference. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating an impactful Berkeley Law personal statement, ensuring you meet all the necessary deadlines and requirements. Let’s dive in.

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• Understanding Berkeley Law

What Sets Berkeley Law Apart?

Before you start writing, it’s crucial to understand what makes Berkeley Law unique among law schools. Berkeley Law, part of the University of California, Berkeley, boasts a rich history and a reputation for academic excellence. Known for its progressive values and commitment to social justice, Berkeley Law is the ideal choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the legal profession.

The Berkeley Law Opportunity Scholarship

One standout feature of Berkeley Law is the Opportunity Scholarship. This program supports students who have overcome significant obstacles to pursue a legal education at Berkeley Law. If you believe you qualify for this scholarship, make sure to include your story in your personal statement.

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• The Personal Statement: Your Key to Admission

Writing a Personal Statement that Shines

Your personal statement is a critical component of your Berkeley Law application. This is your chance to introduce yourself to the admissions committee and showcase why you are an ideal candidate for their program. Here’s how to craft a personal statement that shines:

1. A Personal Narrative

Your personal statement should be a narrative that tells your story. It should include personal experiences, challenges you’ve overcome, and how these have shaped your passion for the legal profession.

2. Berkeley Law Alignment

Demonstrate why Berkeley Law is the perfect fit for your academic and career goals. Highlight specific aspects of the program, such as faculty, clinics, or research opportunities, that align with your aspirations.

3. Be Concise and Clear

While your story is important, be concise in your writing. Adhere to the recommended length (typically two double-spaced pages) and stay focused on the key points.

4. Edit and Review

Proofread your personal statement carefully. Consider seeking feedback from professors, mentors, or peers to ensure it is error-free and impactful.

5. Stay Authentic

Authenticity is crucial. Don’t try to be someone you’re not or tell a story that isn’t yours. Admissions committees value genuine, honest narratives.

Berkeley Law’s Diversity Statement

Berkeley Law places a high value on diversity and inclusivity. While some applicants choose to incorporate diversity-related content within their personal statements, Berkeley Law also allows for a separate diversity statement. If you have unique experiences or perspectives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, this is an opportunity to share them.

Submitting an Addendum

If there are any additional aspects of your application or academic history that you believe require further explanation, you can submit an addendum along with your personal statement. This can address any gaps in your application or provide context for unusual circumstances.

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• Navigating the Application Process

Parts of the Application

To ensure a successful application to Berkeley Law, you must complete all required components. These include transcripts, LSAT scores, letters of recommendation, and, of course, the personal statement. Let’s break down these essential parts:

Transcripts

Ensure that you submit your academic records, including transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended. Berkeley Law values a strong academic background.

LSAT Scores

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test required for admission to Berkeley Law. Be sure to prepare well and submit your scores on time.

Letters of Recommendation

You will need to provide two strong letters of recommendation. Choose recommenders who can speak to your qualifications and potential as a law student.

Application Deadline

One of the most critical aspects of the application process is meeting the deadline. Berkeley Law’s application deadline typically falls in December. Mark this date on your calendar and make sure all components are submitted on time.

Application Fee and Fee Waiver

Be prepared to pay the application fee unless you qualify for a fee waiver. You can request a fee waiver through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which is administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Make sure to check the LSAC’s qualifications for fee waivers.

The Berkeley Law Experience

As you embark on your journey to apply to Berkeley Law, keep in mind that it’s not just about getting in; it’s also about thriving once you’re there. Berkeley Law offers various programs and opportunities to enrich your legal education:

Degree Programs

Berkeley Law offers a range of degree programs, including Juris Doctor (J.D.), Master of Laws (LL.M.), and more. Explore these programs and determine which aligns best with your career goals.

Pursuing a Legal Career

Berkeley Law provides a solid foundation for entering the legal profession. Whether you aspire to work in corporate law, public interest law, or any other field, Berkeley Law’s curriculum and resources can help you achieve your career goals.

Strengthening Your Application

In addition to your personal statement, other factors like your LSAT score, academic records, and letters of recommendation play a crucial role in your application’s strength. Make sure to excel in these areas to enhance your chances of admission.

Crafting your Berkeley Law personal statement is a crucial step in your journey toward a legal career. Remember to stay organized, meet all deadlines, and present your best self in your application. Your journey to Berkeley Law begins with a compelling personal statement and a passion for the legal profession. Good luck, future J.D. candidates!

For any additional questions or guidance, feel free to reach out to Berkeley Law’s admissions committee or visit their official website. Berkeley Law is not just a law school; it’s a community dedicated to fostering excellence, diversity, and social justice in the legal profession. Your path to Berkeley Law is paved with determination, authenticity, and a commitment to making a positive impact.

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I submit an addendum to my personal statement?

Yes, you can submit an addendum along with your personal statement if there are any additional aspects of your application or academic history that require further explanation. This can provide context for unusual circumstances or gaps in your application.

Q2. What’s the Berkeley Law Opportunity Scholarship?

The Berkeley Law Opportunity Scholarship is a program that supports students who have overcome significant obstacles to pursue a legal education at Berkeley Law. It provides financial assistance to deserving candidates. For detailed information and eligibility criteria, visit Berkeley Law’s official website.

Q3. How long should my personal statement be?

Berkeley Law typically recommends a personal statement of two double-spaced pages. Be sure to adhere to this length guideline to ensure your statement is concise and impactful.

Q4. Do I need to take the LSAT for Berkeley Law?

Yes, the LSAT is a requirement for admission to Berkeley Law. Prepare thoroughly and aim for a competitive LSAT score to strengthen your application.

Q5. Can I apply for a fee waiver?

Yes, you can request a fee waiver through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS), which is administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). LSAC has specific qualifications for fee waivers, so make sure to check their guidelines and determine if you qualify.

Q6. What can I do to strengthen my application to Berkeley Law?

To strengthen your application, focus on achieving a competitive LSAT score, maintaining strong academic records, and obtaining compelling letters of recommendation. Additionally, ensure your personal statement effectively highlights your unique qualities and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for Berkeley Law.

Q7. What should I consider as an international applicant?

International applicants should emphasize how their unique backgrounds and experiences can contribute to the Berkeley Law learning environment. Highlighting any international experiences, languages spoken, or cross-cultural perspectives can enhance your application.

Q8. How can I stand out in a competitive applicant pool?

To stand out in a competitive applicant pool, go beyond academic achievements. Showcase your commitment to social justice, your involvement in extracurricular activities, and your genuine passion for the legal profession. Berkeley Law values applicants who bring unique perspectives and a dedication to making a difference.

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Table of Contents

• • Introduction
• • Understanding Berkeley Law
• • The Personal Statement: Your Key to Admission
• • Navigating the Application Process
• • Conclusion
• • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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How to Write a Compelling Personal Statement for University of California--Berkeley School of Law

Learn how to write a compelling personal statement for University of California--Berkeley School of Law with our comprehensive guide.

Posted May 12, 2023

Law School Applications: Ask Me Anything

Starting tuesday, september 24.

10:00 PM UTC · 30 minutes

Table of Contents

Are you looking to pursue a legal education and hoping to attend UC Berkeley School of Law? If so, then you'll need to submit a persuasive personal statement as part of your application. A personal statement is one of the most critical components of your law school application, as it provides the admissions committee with insight into your motivations for pursuing a law degree, your unique background, and experiences that have prepared you for law school, and your interest and passion for the field.

Understanding the Purpose of a Personal Statement for Law School Admission

A personal statement is a chance for you to showcase your personality, your ambitions, and your relevant skills and achievements. The admissions committee will use your personal statement to assess your writing ability, your critical thinking skills, and your ability to present a convincing argument to support your application. Essentially, your personal statement provides a glimpse into who you are, what you have achieved, and what you hope to accomplish in law school and beyond.

One important thing to keep in mind when writing your personal statement is to avoid cliches and generic statements. Admissions committees read hundreds of personal statements, so it's important to make yours stand out. Instead of simply stating that you are passionate about law, provide specific examples of experiences or events that sparked your interest in the field.

Another key aspect of a successful personal statement is to demonstrate your knowledge of the law school and its programs. Research the school thoroughly and mention specific courses, clinics, or professors that interest you. This shows that you have a genuine interest in attending that particular school and have put in the effort to learn about it.

Researching and Familiarizing Yourself with UC Berkeley School of Law

Before you begin crafting your personal statement, it is essential to research the UC Berkeley School of Law thoroughly. Gain an understanding of the school's history, programs, faculty, culture, and values. This will help you tailor your statement to showcase how you fit in with the school's mission and goals.

One way to research the UC Berkeley School of Law is to attend information sessions and events hosted by the school. These events provide an opportunity to meet current students, faculty, and staff, and learn more about the school's programs and culture. Additionally, you can reach out to alumni or current students to gain insight into their experiences and perspectives on the school.

Another important aspect to consider when researching the UC Berkeley School of Law is its location. Berkeley is located in the San Francisco Bay Area, which offers unique opportunities for legal professionals. The area is home to numerous law firms, tech companies, and startups, providing a diverse range of career paths for graduates. Additionally, the school's proximity to Silicon Valley allows for collaboration and innovation in the field of law and technology.

Brainstorming and Outlining Your Ideas for the Personal Statement

Once you have a solid understanding of UC Berkeley School of Law, you can start brainstorming ideas for your personal statement. Consider your background, experiences, and career goals. Highlight any particular obstacles you have overcome or unique challenges you have faced. Outlining your ideas will help you structure your essay and ensure that you cover the most critical points.

It's important to remember that your personal statement should not just be a list of accomplishments or experiences. Admissions committees want to see your personality and character shine through in your writing. Consider including anecdotes or personal stories that demonstrate your values and motivations. Additionally, make sure to tailor your personal statement to UC Berkeley School of Law specifically. Research the school's mission and values and show how your own goals align with theirs.

Crafting a Strong Introduction to Grab the Reader's Attention

The first sentence of your personal statement is critical, as it needs to grab the reader's attention and entice them to read on. Think of a compelling opening sentence that reflects your personality and summarizes your ambitions. Be creative, but avoid clichés.

One effective way to create a strong introduction is to start with a personal anecdote or story that relates to your chosen field of study or career path. This can help to establish a connection with the reader and make your personal statement more memorable. However, be sure to keep the focus on yourself and your goals, rather than getting too caught up in the details of the story.

Highlighting Your Unique Background and Experiences

One of the main purposes of a personal statement is to showcase your unique background and experiences. Use your personal statement to provide detail on the skills, knowledge, and experiences that are relevant to law school and that would make you a successful law student. Consider how your experiences will help you thrive in law school and how they have prepared you for a legal career.

For example, if you have worked in a law firm or legal clinic, you can discuss how this experience has given you insight into the legal profession and the skills necessary to succeed in it. Additionally, if you have volunteered or worked in a community organization, you can discuss how this experience has given you a unique perspective on the issues facing your community and how you can use your legal education to make a positive impact.

It is important to remember that your personal statement should not simply be a list of your experiences, but rather a thoughtful reflection on how these experiences have shaped you and prepared you for law school. By highlighting your unique background and experiences, you can demonstrate to admissions committees that you have the skills, knowledge, and passion necessary to succeed in law school and make a meaningful contribution to the legal profession.

Showcasing Your Passion for Law and Legal Education

Showcasing your passion for the law is crucial in your personal statement. Admissions committees want to see that you are genuinely interested in the field and have a strong desire to succeed in law school. Demonstrate your passion in your personal statement by discussing your interest in legal education, your work or volunteer experience in the field, or your commitment to making a difference in the legal system.

One effective way to showcase your passion for law and legal education is by discussing a specific legal issue that you are passionate about. This could be a current event or a personal experience that sparked your interest in the field. By sharing your thoughts and opinions on the issue, you can demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the legal system, as well as your commitment to making a positive impact in the field. Additionally, discussing your long-term goals and aspirations in the legal field can show admissions committees that you are dedicated to pursuing a career in law and are motivated to succeed.

Incorporating Relevant Examples and Evidence to Support Your Claims

Your personal statement should include specific examples and evidence that support your claims. Provide specific information that showcases your background, experiences, and achievements and that gives the admissions committee a clear understanding of who you are and what you bring to the table. Use concrete examples that demonstrate your skills and abilities and make it clear why you are a good fit for UC Berkeley School of Law.

One effective way to incorporate relevant examples and evidence is to use anecdotes. These short stories can illustrate your experiences and provide insight into your character and values. For example, if you are applying to law school, you could share a story about how you volunteered at a legal aid clinic and helped a client navigate a difficult legal situation. This would demonstrate your commitment to social justice and your ability to apply legal knowledge in a practical setting.

Demonstrating Your Critical Thinking Skills and Analytical Abilities

As a future law student, it is essential to demonstrate your critical thinking skills and analytical abilities in your personal statement. This will not only impress the admissions committee but also serve as an excellent foundation as you move forward in your legal education. Be sure to incorporate any examples of how you have used those skills or what you hope to achieve with them in the future.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Personal Statement Writing

There are several common pitfalls you should avoid when writing your personal statement. For example, using the same clichéd phrases as everyone else or oversharing personal information. Be thoughtful and deliberate in your writing, and put yourself in the shoes of the admissions committee. Ensure that your statement follows the specific requirements of UC Berkeley School of Law.

Editing, Revising, and Polishing Your Personal Statement

Once you have a draft of your personal statement, it is essential to spend time editing, revising, and polishing it. Pay close attention to the tone, clarity of thought, and overall structure of your statement. Don't forget to have someone else read your work and provide feedback. This could be a professor, academic advisor, or professional editor.

Seeking Feedback from Advisors, Peers, or Professional Editors

After you have made your revisions, have another set of eyes to review your personal statement. This will help ensure that your statement is polished and free from errors. Consider reaching out to an academic advisor, a writing center, or a professional editor for assistance.

Understanding the Role of a Personal Statement in the Law School Application Process

Remember that your personal statement is just one component of your law school application. The admissions committee will also take into account your academic record, test scores, letters of recommendation, and other elements when evaluating your candidacy. Therefore, while your personal statement is essential, do not rely on it solely to earn acceptance to UC Berkeley School of Law.

Adhering to UC Berkeley School of Law's Specific Guidelines and Requirements for Personal Statements

Before you begin writing your personal statement, make sure you understand the specific guidelines and requirements set forth by UC Berkeley School of Law. Be sure to follow the word or character count limit and any other formatting or submission requirements. Ensure that your statement meets all of the school's criteria for a successful application.

Tips for Standing Out from Other Applicants with a Compelling Personal Statement

To stand out from other applicants, you will need to craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your unique qualities and experiences. Use your personal statement to support your application to UC Berkeley School of Law and highlight why you are an excellent fit. Remember to put your best foot forward by being honest, thoughtful, and careful with your writing throughout the application process.

Writing a personal statement for UC Berkeley School of Law can be both challenging and rewarding. By following the tips outlined above, you can craft an impressive statement that showcases your unique qualifications and interest in the legal field. Remember to be thoughtful, patient, and thorough in your writing, and above all, stay true to yourself. Good luck!

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[2024] 4 Law School Personal Statement Examples from Top Programs

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

In this article, I will discuss 4 law school personal statement samples. These statements have been written by successful applicants who gained admission to prestigious US Law schools like Yale, Harvard, and Stanford. The purpose of these examples is to demonstrate how prospective applicants like yourself can artfully integrate their passion, skills, and pertinent experiences into a captivating narrative.

* To further guide you on your law school application journey, I will not only present these personal statement samples but will also provide my expert review after each one. This includes an analytical feedback, a graded evaluation, and a detailed discussion of any identified weaknesses and strengths within the personal statement. Through this comprehensive analysis, I aim to provide a clearer understanding of what makes a compelling law school personal statement.

In the process of composing these personal statements, the applicants have drawn upon valuable insights from several of my previous writings on the subject. Furthermore, you are encouraged to utilize my prior works as a resource to aid you in crafting your own personal statement.

In those posts I’ve discussed the  art of constructing a captivating personal statement , and I’ve highlighted the  pitfalls to avoid  to ensure your law school essay leaves a positive impression.

I’ve also shared valuable tips on  structuring your personal statement for clarity and readability, not to mention  how to create a powerful opening  that grabs attention from the start. And let’s not forget about maintaining brevity while effectively telling your story, as well as offering a vast range of  personal statement examples  from different fields for reference.

And yes, do not forget to explore my  8-point framework  that anyone can use to self-evaluate their law school personal statement. Complementing this, I’ve also created a  7-point guide  to help you steer clear of potential traps and missteps in your personal statement.

I encourage you to explore these topics in depth, as they will be useful while we explore the sample personal statement for law schools.

In this Article

1) Research the Law School

2) outline your law school personal statement, 3) write a compelling introduction, 4) showcase your achievements and interests in law, 5) articulate your motivations for pursuing law, 6) highlight unique qualities for the legal field, 7) addressing potential weaknesses or gaps, 8) craft a persuasive conclusion, my in-depth feedback on sample 1, my in-depth feedback on sample 2, my in-depth feedback on sample 3, my in-depth feedback on sample 4, why do law schools require a personal statement, does every law school require a personal statement, what should you avoid in a law school personal statement, can i use the same personal statement for all law schools, should i put my name on my law school personal statement, should you brainstorm your law school personal statement, how to write a personal statement for law school.

Writing a personal statement for law school requires thorough research, a well-structured outline, and a captivating introduction. The following steps will guide you in crafting a coherent and compelling narrative that effectively showcases your journey and aspirations in the field of law. For a more detailed post, follow this ultimate guide on how to write a personal statement .

Begin by immersing yourself in extensive research about the law school you are applying to. Explore the institution’s website, paying close attention to its mission, curriculum, faculty expertise, and any unique offerings such as clinical programs or specialized courses. Familiarize yourself with the admission requirements and tailor your personal statement to highlight relevant qualifications.

Immerse yourself in the law school’s culture and gain insights from faculty members, current students, or alumni. Attend informational sessions or open houses to gather additional details. Reflect on how the law school aligns with your career goals in the legal field and incorporate this understanding into your personal statement, showcasing your dedication and suitability.

Before delving into writing your personal statement, create a comprehensive outline of its content. Begin with a captivating introduction , which could include a compelling anecdote, an impactful quote, or a statement that highlights your passion for the law.

For example: “Ever since I witnessed the transformative power of the law in securing justice for the vulnerable, I have been driven to pursue a legal career that upholds the principles of equity and fairness.”

Next, outline your academic achievements and relevant experiences, such as internships, research projects, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to the field of law. Emphasize the skills you have developed and the honors you have received.

Articulate your motivations for pursuing a legal education, sharing your aspirations and long-term goals. Highlight unique strengths, such as critical thinking, analytical abilities, or effective communication skills. If necessary, address any potential concerns or gaps in your application, explaining the situation and showcasing your ability to overcome challenges.

Conclude by reiterating your passion and qualifications for the legal profession and express your enthusiasm for joining the law school. This structured approach will ensure a coherent and persuasive personal statement.

Begin your personal statement with a captivating introduction that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Consider starting with an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking quote, or a personal experience that sparked your interest in the law.

For instance: “In a world where justice often hangs in the balance, I recall the moment I witnessed a courtroom’s transformative power. The eloquence of the attorneys, the weight of their arguments, and the profound impact on the lives of those involved compelled me to pursue a legal career.”

Briefly introduce the central theme of your personal statement, whether it’s your passion for advocating for others, your commitment to upholding justice, or your desire to make a positive impact through the law. A compelling introduction sets the tone for the rest of your personal statement.

In your personal statement, focus on highlighting your academic and professional accomplishments that showcase your preparedness for law school. Discuss relevant internships, research projects, or academic achievements that demonstrate your commitment to the field.

For example: “During my internship at XYZ Law Firm, I had the privilege of working alongside experienced attorneys, analyzing complex legal cases and conducting in-depth legal research. This experience solidified my passion for legal advocacy and honed my ability to navigate intricate legal frameworks.”

Illustrate key achievements, such as publications, successful legal cases, or leadership roles within legal organizations. Explain how these experiences have shaped your interest in law and contributed to your growth and expertise in the field.

Clearly articulate your motivations for pursuing a legal education. Share personal experiences, challenges, or encounters that have fueled your desire to make a difference through the law.

For example: “Growing up in a community where access to justice was limited, I witnessed firsthand the disparities in legal representation. These experiences instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to advocate for those who have been marginalized by the legal system.”

Outline your career goals and aspirations, illustrating how obtaining a legal education aligns with your vision. Discuss how the law school’s program, faculty, and resources will contribute to your growth and help you achieve your professional objectives.

Highlight personal qualities and attributes that make you well-suited for a legal career. Emphasize traits such as critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, research skills, or effective communication.

For instance: “My ability to analyze complex legal issues, combined with my unwavering commitment to pursuing justice, has enabled me to approach legal challenges with both empathy and determination.

Provide concrete examples that demonstrate how these qualities have positively impacted your academic or professional experiences. Showcase how these qualities align with the values and expectations of the law school, presenting a strong case for your fit within the legal community.

Address any weaknesses or gaps in your application candidly. If you encountered obstacles or faced academic challenges, briefly mention them, focusing on what you have learned and how you have grown as a result.

Demonstrate resilience and determination by highlighting subsequent achievements or steps you have taken to overcome difficulties. Showcase how these experiences have strengthened your commitment and prepared you for the rigors of law school.

Your conclusion should effectively summarize the key points of your personal statement. Recap your passion for the law, the skills you have acquired, and your future ambitions within the legal field.

For example: “Driven by an unwavering commitment to justice and armed with a solid foundation in legal research and advocacy, I am ready to embark on this transformative journey in law school.”

Express your enthusiasm for contributing to the legal profession, emphasizing how your unique perspective and experiences will enrich the law school community. Conclude with a confident and concise statement that demonstrates your readiness to excel in their program and make a meaningful impact in the field of law.

Sample 1: NYU, UCLA, and Duke

Variations of this personal statement got accepted at nyu, ucla, and duke..

One day, I decided to quit home, leave my parents behind and move to a small rural town called Leiah after being inconsiderately and incessantly forced to marry a cousin. It was a bold step, but I did not want to be like other women in my country who do not fight for their rights. While living in solicitude in Leiah, I stumbled upon a poor old man sitting beside a piece of furniture that would define his existence. Lying limply on a street corner, the old man had only one helping hand – the crippled furniture.

Coming from a privileged background, I saw for the first time the disparity between the haves and have-nots. Nothing, however, seemed more unlikely when I first arrived. Constrained by their poverty, these rural people took what jobs they could find, working for long hours in the field and finally retrieving their broken houses and furniture for respite. They were outrageously overworked and underpaid but never brought any bitterness home. At that time, I realized how blessed I was, and they were not.

Inspired by these experiences, I decided to use my education and connections to bring change to the lives of these people of Leiah. By collaborating with an NGO for money and resources, I started giving out basic amenities and finances to set up cheap livable houses for these people. I didn’t stop there – I joined a maternity home in Leiah as a public liaison officer and helped the clinic with legal and administrative issues. By understanding the numerous Federal and State laws regarding Health Care, I better equipped myself at work. After tireless efforts, I handled several cases of women and children who suffered abuse, violence, and neglect.

I wanted to discuss these experiences because I believe that, as an ever-present factor during many of these four formative years, these incidents played a significant role in shaping the adult I have become. Ten years ago, I would never have foreseen that I could become a powerful vehicle for others’ growth by living in a village. The experience has helped me develop a heightened sensitivity for those who have struggled to fit into our society. As a result, I decided to move back to the city after several years and pursue further education in law and political science. During these academic years, I was actively involved with various community service projects and as an investigator in law firms, allowing me to interact with troubled and disadvantaged youth and the mentally disabled.

I have long been interested in law as an academic discipline, and working in rural areas has confirmed that my academic interests would extend to the real-world application of legal principles. To this end, I purposefully chose jobs that provided very distinct perspectives on law practice. As a legal assistant, I became acquainted with both the advantages and disadvantages of private practice. As a member of the human rights commission, I investigated how non-profits worked at a larger scale to improve the lives of the underprivileged. Moreover, helping in DIL (development in literacy) has offered me a glimpse of how the law may be used constructively in the public sector. I am currently working as a member of the Michigan chapter on fundraising that will take place next year in LA. All these positions have equally impressed upon me the unique potential of the law to make a direct, positive impact on people’s lives.

Working as a legal consultant, I was initially turned off by the formal language, which permeated all writing and discourse (“Aforementioned • legalese had heretofore proven incomprehensible”). As one unfamiliar with the jargon, I found the law to be pretentious and distant. Gradually, however, I began to sort out the shades of difference between a “motion in limine” and a “56(f) motion.” Finally, I understood the law as a vast set of rules which could, with intelligence and creativity, genuinely be used on behalf of values such as fairness and justice.

In addition to my primary assignment on an antitrust case, some exposure to pro bono work further convinced me that law has a vital role in our society. I am also avidly involved in extra-curricular activities. For example, I went to India to attend my father’s book launch (a writer) organized by Ghalib Council, Delhi. By collaborating and bonding with the people of India, I could impart brotherhood and literacy since I found Indian people more educated than us. My society needs education and health, and I want to work in these areas when I return.

As with my experience at a law firm, I soon realized the practical application of the laws written here. Unlike most of the public, who see only the final version of a bill, being part of the health legislative process has forced me to examine all sides of any given issue. Although politics can make this process agonizingly slow and inefficient, my work here has given me a greater appreciation for how laws affect our constituents back home.

Given my skills, I am convinced that health law presents the single greatest chance for me to make a difference, both in the lives of individuals and in terms of influencing the broader fabric of society. Moreover, I am confident that my insistence on looking beyond those first impressions has provided me with an exciting opportunity to apply and study at UCLA Law.

The woman in my society is an artisan and a tradesperson. She’s an economist and a doctor. She is also a fisherwoman and a craftsperson. She’s a mentor, nurturer, parliamentarian, and cultivator. She’s brimming with life and capability, but she waits for what justly belongs to her: the right to a superior life.

Here is a brief review and rating of this personal statement based on different aspects:

• Hook and Introduction (4.5/5): Your introduction is powerful and immediately hooks the reader. It shows strength, courage, and determination.
• Background and Motivation (4.5/5): You’ve done a great job of illustrating your background and motivation, which stem from your experiences in Leiah. You could add more about how these experiences triggered your interest in law.
• Relevance and Competency (4/5): You have demonstrated a clear path from your experiences to your interest in law, but a more explicit discussion about the legal skills you have developed and how you applied them would make this section stronger.
• Passion and Personal Drive (5/5): Your passion for law, social justice, and helping others is palpable and will make a strong impression on the admission committee.
• Program Fit and Future Goals (3/5): Your statement is currently lacking in specific references to the law school you’re applying to, making it difficult to assess fit. Discussing how the program aligns with your career goals and what aspects of the program particularly attract you would strengthen your application.
• Conclusion (4/5): Your conclusion is effective in tying together your experiences and your desire to study law. However, a clearer expression of your readiness for law school and how you plan to contribute to the law school community would enhance this section.

Now, let’s delve deeper into each part of your statement:

• Introduction: Your introduction is powerful and impactful. The raw honesty about your decision to leave home and confront societal norms hooks the reader immediately. It tells us you are strong, independent, and willing to make hard choices. One suggestion would be to more directly link this bold decision to your interest in law—did it spark a desire for justice, or a passion for advocating for others who are oppressed?
• Background and Challenges: You effectively depict the stark contrast between your privileged upbringing and the poverty-stricken lives of the people in Leiah. Your empathy is palpable, and it showcases your character and capacity for understanding others’ situations. To provide more context, you could elaborate on the societal and cultural norms that were challenged by your experiences in Leiah and how these experiences shaped your view of law and justice.
• Transferable Skills: You talk about your role as a public liaison officer and how it familiarized you with Federal and State healthcare laws. This shows you’ve already been using legal skills in a practical environment, a strong point in your favor. Perhaps expand on the specific skills or competencies you gained during this period, such as negotiation, critical thinking, or public speaking, and how they will be beneficial in a law school environment.
• Passion and Goals: Your experiences, such as working with NGOs and maternity homes, indicate a strong passion for social justice. The goal of using law to improve the lives of the underprivileged is noble and will resonate with law schools. It might be beneficial to discuss specific areas of law you are interested in (e.g., human rights, public interest law) and how you see yourself contributing in these areas in the future.
• Relevant Experiences: Your varied experiences, from community service to law firm investigation work, provide you with a wealth of practical experiences, all very relevant to your law school journey. Perhaps you could add more detail about how these experiences solidified your desire to study law and how they shaped your perspective on legal practice.
• Specific Interest in the School: The personal statement does not mention a specific law school or its program. Including a paragraph detailing why you are interested in the specific school you are applying to, and how its program aligns with your career goals, could strengthen your application. Discuss the school’s specific courses, faculty, or values that attract you.
• Conclusion: While your conclusion effectively ties together your experiences and future law goals, it could be more direct in expressing your readiness to face the challenges of law school and contribute to the school community.

Your personal statement is already compelling, but adding more context to your experiences and making clear links between your past, present, and future in the context of law could further enhance it. Remember, specificity is key—whether it’s about the skills you’ve gained, the experiences that shaped your interest in law, or the specific school you’re applying to.

Sample 2: Northwestern, Vanderbilt, and UC Berkeley

Variations of this personal statement got accepted at northwestern, vanderbilt, and uc berkeley..

Unlike many, my passion for acquiring a law degree is neither a childhood fantasy of fighting a case in a courtroom nor a preconceived notion of myself as a lawyer. Instead, I recognize that a law degree would enable me to advance my career as a taxation lawyer.

I had to skip schooling during 4th and 5th grade and instead studied at home. This was due to the financial difficulties stemming from my mother’s cancer treatment, which put a significant financial burden on us. Additionally, as a female from an agricultural and rural family, I faced family pressure to attend a public school instead of a private one. But I did not succumb to these pressures. Instead, I persevered in studying and investing in getting myself private education through partial financial support from my older brother and by working part-time as a writer and content curator. Six months before my high-school graduation, my mother succumbed to her illness and passed away. She spent the last eight years of her life bedridden. The loss was immeasurable, but life had to move on.

I first set my sights on becoming a lawyer when I interned at a law firm during the summer break following my high school graduation. Throughout this internship, I annoyed my supervisors by writing long-winded legal documents even when they asked for a few sentences – this was because of the writing habits I had developed as a content writer. With time, I started to write better legal reports, but my attention was increasingly turned toward tax law. With the guidance and counseling of my supervisors, I applied to an undergrad law program. I spent the next several years understanding the Federal Reserve’s proposed Income Tax Ordinance, including exemptions from income tax and withholding tax.

Throughout this time, I continued to work part-time with various firms, hospitals, and non-profits as a volunteer, legal advisor, and editor. Upon graduation, I applied for the position of legal advisor at the Monthly Atlantic. My current job entails researching and reporting for the newspaper on appropriations bills and export legislation. I also write daily summaries of major contracts awarded by the Federal Government. I am also primarily responsible for supporting discrete legal issues by advising the organization, drafting undertakings, and structuring remedies for the relevant issues.

I am excited but also apprehensive as I try to explain legal jargon to an informed general audience, some of whom may know more about these policies than I do. For example, recently, I had a significant challenge in understanding and decoding the budget proposals of the Federal Reserve, by section 42 of the MOPA Act, 1956 (the Act), in which the entire income of the Federal Reserve and its subsidiaries is remitted to the federal government. After thoroughly going through the provisions, I learned there are still some provisions in the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, Sales Tax Act 1990, and Federal Excise Act 2005, attracting the application of taxes and duties.

Too often, I need more legal knowledge to fully grasp bills that control how companies do business overseas, the limits to which government agencies can go to collect covert intelligence, or the amount of funding an agency can receive in a given time. On the one hand, these limitations have yet to do much to impair me in my current position. I am called to turn out several short stories daily on various topics without going into significant detail. However, I would like to advance to more complex and challenging assignments one day. I fear I will be able to do so if I acquire more expertise than I can within the confines of my deadline-driven job. It is a belief shared by several of my colleagues and many of the senior legal consultants at the newspaper that those who hold advanced degrees in law, business, and related disciplines are at an edge. A law degree would put me in a better position to join their ranks, mainly if I could attend school while continuing to work as a legal advisor in taxation-related instances.

Given my circumstances and interests, a graduate degree in taxation law from UC Berkeley is my ideal choice. In addition, I have an acquaintance that is currently enrolled at Berkeley Law school. His generous feedback has convinced me that this program would also fit my needs considering its flexible schedule and emphasis on tax law.

• Hook and Introduction (5/5): The hook and introduction effectively capture the reader’s attention and provide a clear understanding of your unique motivation for pursuing a law degree. The personal anecdote about your internship and your writing habits adds interest to the narrative and sets the stage for the rest of the personal statement.
• Background and Motivation (4.5/5): The background section effectively outlines the challenges you faced during your education and personal life, showcasing your resilience and determination. It helps the reader understand the context in which your passion for law developed. The motivation behind your interest in taxation law is well-explained, highlighting how your experiences and skills have guided you towards this specific field.
• Relevance and Competency (4/5): You effectively demonstrate your competence by discussing your experiences as a legal advisor, writer, and content curator. The mention of your work with firms, hospitals, and non-profits further strengthens your case. However, it would be beneficial to provide more specific examples or achievements that highlight your skills and expertise in taxation law.
• Passion and Personal Drive (4.5/5): Your passion for taxation law shines through in your personal statement. The enthusiasm you express for writing legal reports and your desire to tackle more complex assignments demonstrate your genuine interest in the field. The mention of your colleagues and senior legal consultants’ belief in the value of advanced degrees in law further emphasizes your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
• Program Fit and Future Goals (3/5): While you express your interest in pursuing a graduate degree in taxation law from UC Berkeley, the personal statement lacks specific details about why this program is a perfect fit for your goals. Providing more information about the program’s strengths and how they align with your aspirations would strengthen this section.
• Conclusion (4/5): The conclusion effectively wraps up your personal statement and reinforces your commitment to pursuing a law degree. It restates your interest in UC Berkeley and highlights the feedback you received from an acquaintance at the institution. However, it could be enhanced by briefly summarizing your key strengths and accomplishments and how they will contribute to your success in the program.
• Introduction: The introduction of the personal statement effectively hooks the reader by highlighting your unique motivation for pursuing a law degree with a focus on taxation law. The mention of it not being a childhood fantasy and instead recognizing the degree as a means to advance your career sets the tone for the rest of the statement.
• Background and Challenges: The section detailing your background and the challenges you faced is compelling. The explanation of having to skip schooling due to financial difficulties resulting from your mother’s cancer treatment adds depth to your personal story. It showcases your resilience in overcoming obstacles and your determination to pursue education despite the circumstances. The mention of facing family pressure to attend a public school instead of a private one further emphasizes your determination and ability to make your own choices.
• Transferable Skills: While you mention working part-time as a writer and content curator, the transferable skills gained from this experience could be further elaborated upon. Explaining how your writing skills, attention to detail, and ability to analyze information have prepared you for the demands of the legal field would strengthen this section.
• Passion and Goals: Your passion for law and taxation law is effectively conveyed throughout the personal statement. The explanation of your interest developing during your internship at a law firm, where you consistently wrote legal documents, showcases your dedication and enthusiasm. The mention of your desire to tackle more complex assignments and the belief shared by colleagues and senior legal consultants that advanced degrees are advantageous demonstrate your long-term goals and commitment to professional growth.
• Relevant Experiences: The inclusion of your various volunteer and advisory roles, as well as your current position as a legal advisor at the Monthly Atlantic, highlights your practical experience in the field. However, providing more specific examples or accomplishments from these experiences would enhance this section and further illustrate your competence and expertise.
• Specific Interest in the School: While you express an interest in pursuing a graduate degree in taxation law from UC Berkeley, the personal statement lacks specific details about why this program is a perfect fit for your goals. Adding more information about the program’s strengths, faculty, or specific courses that align with your interests would strengthen this section.
• Conclusion: The conclusion effectively wraps up the personal statement by restating your commitment to pursuing a law degree and emphasizing your interest in UC Berkeley. However, it could be strengthened by summarizing your key strengths, experiences, and goals and how they align with the school’s offerings.

Overall, your personal statement effectively conveys your passion for taxation law, your determination to overcome challenges, and your commitment to professional growth. Strengthening the sections on transferable skills, providing more specific examples of relevant experiences, and including more specific details about the school’s fit would enhance the overall impact of the statement.

Sample 3: Georgetown

Variations of this personal statement got accepted at georgetown..

My desire to apply to law school is not rooted in a childhood fantasy of arguing a case before a packed courtroom. I have never seen myself as a trial attorney, ala Perry Mason or Nora Lewin on Law & Order. However, a legal education would enable me to advance my career as a writer and analyst specializing in national security and global trade issues.

I first set my sights on becoming a writer when I learned my letters. But, of course, mastering the ABCs may have been a long way from winning the Pulitzer. Nevertheless, this minor detail did not prevent me from completing three “novels” and my version of Genesis before the age of seven. Throughout elementary and junior high school, I annoyed my teachers by writing 10-page themes whenever they asked for a few sentences. Later, as a high school and college student, I continued writing, though my attention was increasingly turned toward other subjects. Ultimately, one of my professors directed me on a path that would combine my background in writing with government and policymaking. With her help, I secured an internship with a government contractor. As a result, I spent the spring and summer writing copy for websites that the company managed for the government while taking additional classes at university.

In February, I accepted a full-time job as a researcher at Washington Post, where I am now an assistant editor. My current job entails researching and reporting on defense appropriations bills and export legislation, as well as writing daily summaries of major contracts awarded by the Department of Defense and other defense ministries worldwide. With enthusiasm but some trepidation, I attempt to decode pages of legal jargon for an educated lay readership, many of whom I suspect know more than I about such policies. But, too often, I lack the legal knowledge to fully grasp bills that control how companies do business overseas, the limits to which government agencies can go to collect covert intelligence, or the amount of funding an agency can receive in a given length of time.

On the one hand, these limitations have yet to do much to impair me in my current position. I am called to turn out several short stories daily on various topics without going into significant detail. However, I would like to advance to more difficult reporting assignments one day. I fear I will be able to do so if I acquire more expertise than I can within the confines of my deadline-driven job. I also would like to It is a belief shared by several of my colleagues, as well as many of the senior writers and editors at my company who hold advanced degrees in law, business, and related disciplines. A law degree would put me in a better position to join their ranks, mainly if I could attend school while continuing to work as a journalist.

Given my circumstances and interests, Georgetown University Law Center, with its top-ranked intellectual property and international law programs, is my ideal choice. In addition, I have a colleague that is currently enrolled in the Georgetown evening law program. His generous feedback has convinced me that this program would also fit my needs considering its flexible schedule and emphasis on legal writing.

Your personal statement presents a compelling narrative that effectively communicates your passion for writing, your current profession, and your interest in furthering your education in law to augment your skills and understanding. Here are a few suggestions to improve it further:

• Specifics: While you mention you would like to join the ranks of your colleagues who hold advanced degrees in law and related disciplines, it would be beneficial to include specific examples of how having a law degree could have or will benefit you in your current role.
• Motivation: You’ve done a great job discussing your professional path and how you hope a legal education will benefit your career. Still, it would help if you were to discuss any personal reasons or experiences that have led you to want to study law. Personal narratives often make an applicant more relatable and can help the reader understand your motivation better.
• Intention: You may want to further discuss how you plan to apply your law degree to your current career or future aspirations.
• Completion: Towards the end, it seems there is a sentence that is not completed: “I also would like to It is a belief shared by several of my colleagues…”. You might want to revise this sentence to make your statement clearer.
• Why Georgetown: While you have discussed that Georgetown University Law Center is your top choice, consider elaborating on why Georgetown, in particular, is the perfect fit for your career goals, apart from its flexible schedule and the fact that your colleague is enrolled there. You could mention specific courses, professors, or the university’s ethos, for example.

Your personal statement is already quite strong, and these suggestions are only meant to fine-tune your narrative further.

Sample 4: Harvard Law

Variations of this llm personal statement got accepted at university of pennsylvania, oxford university, and harvard law school..

I grew up in a middle-class family in Malaysia, where discipline and responsible behavior were the only doctrines taught. At school, I maintained 100% attendance without exception – a feat that my parents and I take pride in. My parents’ utmost involvement throughout my growing years always made me outshine my peers. Though my school grades were average, I represented my school in many activities ranging from debates and dramatics to being a soccer team captain for the entire house.

I have always had complete freedom from my parents until I had to choose a career. A STEM career was my parents’ priority, but for the first time, I differed from my family and chose Social Sciences. I was told that career prospects were bleak and that I was making the wrong decision, but I persisted. While majoring in social sciences, I met a mentor, Dr. Anonymous, a top economist. He challenged me intellectually, which helped me become a better thinker.

Subsequently, I secured the second position in college. My life turned around as people started to value my opinions, and at that time, I discovered my passion, “to speak.” I was chosen as the Coordinator for a Student Leadership Program, where I was mainly responsible for teaching empathy to hundreds of students from elite schools.

At the same time, at age 17, I met the chief editor of the New York Times, who invited me to host the “Youth Forum,” a program to highlight young people’s perspectives on existing social issues. With 55 episodes spanning over 2.5 years, I questioned youth’s role in our turbulent political, social, and economic system. The show gained popularity and performed exceptionally on TRP scores, with viewership growing to over 500,000.

At college, I met another mentor, Justice Anonymous of the Federal Court of Malaysia, who allowed me to attend court sessions as an observer of cross-questioning sessions. In addition, I socialized with lawyers at many forums, including the Court’s Cafeteria, where all appreciated my love for the field. In my 5th semester, I took a course on U.K. Constitutional Law, where I learned about the history of the U.K. Constitution. In the session on “Parliamentary Sovereignty” and “Britain’s relationship with the European Union,” the professor gave me new energy to research further about the steps in forming its Constitution. The more I read, the more I appreciated the perseverance of the founding fathers and the strong foundation England and Wales is built on.

A few years back, I attended the Oxford University Experience-Summer Course for Teens, Summerfuel. The program helped me with experiential learning about what college life is like. During my stay, I had plenty of opportunities to experience English life outside the classroom. Here, in a session, I narrated the first paragraph of the declaration of independence and asked, “whether all men are equal?”. To this, the professor appreciated my enthusiasm for constitutional law.

On my return to Malaysia, I had new energy to question the existing constitutional norms of Malaysia and kept comparing the constitutions of both countries and analyzing the factors that led to present-day turbulence in Malaysia. It is evident through the literature and historical precedence that the Constitution of Malaysia has been used maliciously to favor the powermongers. This indicates the lack of sincerity and dedication of the leaders who have formed this country.

Sadly, very few competent constitutional lawyers exist in the country that also happened to have played in the hands of powerful politicians who manipulated the Constitution to favor their vested interests. Therefore, I decided to take a career in this area as I aspire to be one of the few upright constitutional lawyers. I want to be amongst those who have shaped law and politics in Malaysia. Not amongst those who played in the hands of the powerful.

I want to choose Oxford Law for several reasons. Its tradition for excellence, the unique constitutional law curriculum, the summer program, and the excellent opportunity to meet and network with individuals from different parts of the world. I believe that Oxford law school’s vibrant and diverse community actively affirms my personality of maintaining lifelong relations. These different connections serve as a general resource for the campus community and a source of empowerment for students like me. The diverse setting at Oxford will enable me to investigate and engage in current issues and more profound societal questions. As a result, I will be able to discover how I can positively impact the world around me.

I am looking for an environment that promotes lively debates to complement my active speaking and reasoning traits. I can access well-known professors and discuss legal issues with exceptional young lawyers from more than 35 countries. Oxford offers a culture of collegiality and collaboration, where international students feel comfortable. At Oxford, professors like Dr. Anonymous, who specialize in constitutional law, and courses such as Democracy, Judicial Law-Making, & Constitutional Law can help nurture my skills and move forward in my career.

Professor Dr. Anonymous, a former Lord Justice in Wales, will teach me the value of strategy in litigation. Next, professor Dr. Anonymous and Dr. Anonymous will introduce me to the fabulous world of copyright. Finally, professor Dr. Anonymous will show me the foundations of the England and Wales litigation system. My long-term goal is to teach and practice constitutional law and eventually join politics on the path to becoming a leading politician. I have been inspired by high-achieving lawyers in Malaysia, such as Justice Anonymous, who have shaped Malaysia’s media, politics, and legal practice. I aspire to be the next in line.

Oxford offers a vast clinical & pro bono program via externships ranging from civil practice clinic to Wales Human Relations Commission. These externships indicate that Oxford wants to help all, a notion uncommon in Malaysia. Oxford is a lab for innovation and opportunities, as seen from the example of hundreds of Alumni that Oxford Law has catered to. I firmly believe that Oxford will genuinely appreciate my leadership at every scale and will polish my raw qualities and channel them so that I can apply them in Malaysia. Actual change on the grass root comes through education, and Oxford Law School is the ideal medium to achieve the highest standards.

Overall, your personal statement is impressive and well-articulated, illustrating a journey of personal and academic growth that highlights your passion, determination, and ambition. You make a compelling case for why you are interested in studying law, and specifically constitutional law, at Oxford. The narrative is well structured, and your argument about the need for constitutional reform in Malaysia is compelling and novel. Your professional experiences and extracurricular activities are quite impressive, providing evidence of your initiative and leadership abilities.

However, there are a few areas where your personal statement could be improved.

• Language & Tone: There are some areas where the tone may come off as overly self-congratulatory, which could potentially turn off some admissions officers. For instance, you could soften the phrase “My parents’ utmost involvement throughout my growing years always made me outshine my peers.”
• Coherence: The transitions between paragraphs are sometimes abrupt. For example, the transition from your second to third paragraph, where you switch from discussing your choice of Social Sciences to your achievement of securing second position in college, lacks a clear connecting link.
• Specificity: You could provide more specifics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, instead of mentioning that you taught empathy to hundreds of students, it would be helpful to illustrate what this entailed and what results it achieved.
• Mention of Oxford: The reasons for choosing Oxford Law seem generic and could apply to any top law school. To make your statement more compelling, research more about what is specific to Oxford Law – perhaps a unique program or course, or a faculty member’s work you admire, and express why that appeals to you.
• Criticizing Home Country: The criticism of Malaysia and its leaders seems a bit harsh, which may not resonate well with some readers. While it’s important to be honest about the issues you see, try to express these thoughts in a more constructive manner, focusing more on potential solutions rather than just pointing out problems.
• Ending: The statement ends abruptly. It would be great if you could end on a strong note, summarising your aspirations, and how Oxford fits into that journey.

Here is how I would grade your personal statement:

Content: B+ (The content is strong, but it could benefit from more specific examples and better transitions)

Structure: B (The narrative is coherent but could benefit from smoother transitions and a stronger conclusion)

Language & Tone: B (The tone sometimes comes off as self-congratulatory, and the language could be more nuanced in places)

Alignment with Purpose: B+ (Your statement makes a compelling case for why you want to study law at Oxford, but reasons specific to Oxford could be made more clear)

Overall Grade: B+ 

Your personal statement has a lot of strengths, and with a few tweaks, it could be even stronger. I hope this feedback helps you in refining it further!

Law schools typically require a personal statement for several reasons:

• Understanding You Better: The personal statement provides insights into who you are beyond your academic credentials and achievements. It helps the admissions committee understand your values, personal growth, and unique experiences that might not be evident from your GPA or LSAT scores.
• Assessing Your Communication Skills: Law is a field that requires excellent written communication skills. A well-written personal statement allows the admissions committee to gauge your ability to articulate complex thoughts, express ideas clearly, and construct logical arguments.
• Determining Your Commitment: A thoughtful personal statement can demonstrate your dedication to pursuing a legal career. It’s a way for you to express why you want to study law and how you perceive your future in the field.
• Identifying Diverse Perspectives: Law schools aim to create a diverse and dynamic learning environment. Your personal statement allows you to highlight unique experiences or perspectives that you can bring to the school, thereby contributing to this diversity.
• Evaluating Your Potential Fit: The personal statement gives the law school an opportunity to determine whether you’ll be a good fit for their institution. This isn’t just about you meeting their requirements, but also about whether the school can meet your academic and career aspirations.
• Demonstrating Resilience: Personal statements often include narratives that reveal challenges and obstacles you’ve overcome. These stories can demonstrate your resilience and problem-solving skills, traits that are highly valued in the legal profession.

In summary, a personal statement is a tool that allows law schools to evaluate you holistically. It goes beyond objective measurements of academic potential and provides a more comprehensive view of you as an individual.

Almost all law schools in the United States require a personal statement as part of the application process. The personal statement serves as a critical component of your law school application, allowing admissions committees to understand your motivations, experiences, and skills beyond what is reflected in your academic records and LSAT scores.

However, the specific requirements for law school applications can vary from one institution to another. Some schools may have specific prompts or topics they want you to address in your personal statement, while others may offer more freedom in choosing what to discuss. Certain schools might even ask for additional essays or statements to supplement your application.

If you are applying to law schools outside of the U.S., it’s always a good idea to check the specific admissions guidelines for each law school you’re interested in. Remember that meeting all of the application requirements can demonstrate your commitment and attention to detail, which are valuable traits in the legal field.

What is a Good Length for a Law School Personal Statement?

The length of a personal statement for law school can vary depending on the specific instructions provided by each law school.

A common guideline is typically around two to three double-spaced pages, or approximately 500-750 words.

This length is usually sufficient to provide a detailed narrative without overwhelming the reader with too much information. Remember, admissions committees review many applications, so they appreciate concise and compelling personal statements.

It’s very important to adhere to the instructions provided by each law school you apply to. If a specific word or page count is given, make sure you comply with that limit. Failure to do so could give the impression that you either cannot follow instructions or that you lack the ability to express yourself concisely, neither of which will help your application.

Above all, make sure that every word you write is meaningful and contributes to your overall narrative or argument. A well-crafted, succinct personal statement can often be more powerful than a longer one that lacks focus.

Writing a personal statement for law school can be a challenging task. It’s equally important to know what to avoid as it is to know what to include . Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Vague and Cliché Statements: Avoid clichés and general statements that could apply to anyone. Be specific, personal, and honest in your writing. For example, instead of saying “I want to be a lawyer to fight for justice,” show through your experiences and reflections why and how you’re committed to justice.
• Repeating Your Resume: Your personal statement should not be a recitation of your resume or transcript. It’s an opportunity to share your personal journey, perspectives, and insights that aren’t reflected in other parts of your application.
• Being Overly Emotional or Dramatic: While it’s important to show passion, avoid being excessively emotional or dramatic. Aim to strike a balance between personal storytelling and professional tone.
• Off-topic Content: Stay focused on what the prompt is asking, and tie everything back to your interest in law school and your future career. Avoid irrelevant details or anecdotes.
• Poor Structure and Flow: A disjointed or confusing statement can be difficult to read and may give a negative impression. Plan your statement carefully to ensure it has a clear structure and logical flow.
• Typos and Grammar Errors: These can give the impression of carelessness. Proofread your statement carefully, and consider having others review it as well.
• Negativity or Excuses: If discussing challenges or setbacks, focus on what you learned and how you grew from the experience rather than blaming others or making excuses.
• Making Unsupported Claims: If you claim a particular trait, back it up with concrete examples. For example, instead of just stating that you’re empathetic, share an experience that demonstrates this quality.
• Controversial Topics: Be cautious when discussing potentially divisive subjects, as you don’t want to alienate the reader. If you do choose to address a controversial issue, be sure to do so respectfully and thoughtfully.

Remember, your personal statement is a chance to present an authentic and engaging narrative about your journey towards law school. It should showcase your unique qualities, motivations, and experiences, demonstrating why you would be an excellent addition to the law school’s incoming class.

While it’s possible to use the same base personal statement for all law schools, it is not generally recommended. This is because each law school may have different prompts or expectations for what they want to see in a personal statement. If you don’t tailor your statement to each school, you might miss an opportunity to show how well you align with that specific program or fail to answer the prompt properly.

Additionally, tailoring your personal statement to each school can demonstrate your genuine interest in that particular institution. For example, you might discuss how a specific program, course, or faculty member at that school aligns with your career goals or academic interests. Showing that you’ve done your research and understand what makes each law school unique can make your application more compelling.

That said, it’s also important to maintain consistency and honesty across your applications. You might have a central narrative or theme in your personal statement that remains the same across all versions, while adjusting specific details or sections to better fit each school.

Remember to carefully review the application guidelines for each law school you apply to, paying special attention to any specific prompts or instructions for the personal statement. It’s crucial to ensure that each statement you submit not only meets all requirements, but also clearly conveys why you are a strong fit for each particular law school. 

In general, it’s good practice to include your name and sometimes your LSAC (Law School Admission Council) number on every page of your personal statement, usually in the header or footer. This ensures that if the pages get separated for any reason, the admissions committee can easily match them back up.

However, each law school might have specific guidelines regarding formatting and what information to include. Always follow the specific directions provided by the school to which you’re applying. If the application instructions don’t specify whether or not to include your name, it’s generally safe to include it to ensure your personal statement is easily identifiable.

Also, it’s always a good idea to include a title for your personal statement, even if it’s just “Personal Statement,” so it’s immediately clear what the document is. If you are sending more than one essay or document (like a diversity statement or addendum), this will ensure that each one is clearly identified.

Prior to initiating the writing process, it is vital to set aside some time to formulate your thoughts. Given that the prompts for law school personal statements are usually quite generic—such as, “Why are you interested in studying law?”—candidates often face uncertainty about the best way to approach their response.

You may find yourself overwhelmed with numerous ideas, or conversely, completely devoid of inspiration. To start off, let’s consider a practical approach you can adopt if you’re grappling with where to begin.

Take a writing pad and respond to the subsequent questions:

• Why do I want to go to law school? This question helps to clarify your motivation and passion for pursuing law as a career. It can be grounded in an event, an experience, or a specific interest you’ve cultivated over time .
• What experiences have prepared me for a career in law? These could be academic, work, or extracurricular experiences, where you’ve developed skills that are relevant to a legal career, such as critical thinking, negotiation, or public speaking.
• How have my past experiences influenced my world view? This can provide context about how you approach problems, deal with adversity, or interact with diverse groups, which are all relevant to a legal career.
• How does a law degree fit into my long-term career goals? Here, you’re demonstrating an understanding of how a law degree can contribute to your aspirations, showing a commitment to the field.
• Can I discuss a specific area of law I’m interested in? It’s a bonus if you’re able to tie your experiences and interests to a particular field of law. This shows a depth of understanding and dedication to the subject.
• Is there a unique perspective or diverse background that I can bring to the law school? Schools value diversity in their student body, as it contributes to the richness of classroom discussions and the overall community.
• Have I overcome any significant obstacles or challenges in my life that have shaped who I am? This might provide insight into your resilience, determination, and adaptability, which are valuable traits in a lawyer.
• How have I demonstrated leadership or initiative in the past? Law schools are looking for leaders and self-starters, so any evidence of this will be useful in your personal statement.
• Can I articulate the values and qualities that will make me a good lawyer? You might think about empathy, integrity, diligence, advocacy, or the desire to serve others and uphold justice.
• Why am I a good fit for the specific law school I’m applying to? Consider the school’s mission statement, values, programs, faculty, etc. This can show that you’ve done your research and are committed to attending that particular school.

Formulating a compelling law school personal statement requires thoughtful introspection and strategic planning. By answering these guiding questions, you can navigate the broad prompts and articulate your experiences, motivations, and unique attributes effectively.

Remember, the goal is not to present a list of accomplishments but to paint a vivid picture of your journey towards the legal profession. So, use these questions as your starting point, and craft a narrative that stands out in the sea of applicants and resonates with the admissions committee. The journey towards a career in law starts with this crucial step, and you have the power to shape it.

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@"david.busis"

A solid 2 pages is better than an extra page of fluff. It's like what my old high school english teacher would say when everyone would ask "how long does this essay need to be?" His answer was always "as long as it needs to be to sufficiently convey your point; no more, no less." I'd say the same thing with your Berkeley statement. If you can write an extra page or two that adds meaning, then go for it. If you can't, then I wouldn't worry about it.

Good question. On Berkeley's admissions page they state that the personal statement should be "ideally four pages double-spaced." Of course fluff is always unnecessary and counter-productive but if we can write more, although annoying, I wonder if it would be worth it. Why does Berkeley suggest such an atypically long statement? Is this their way of being "holistic"?

I was gonna try to write a 4 pager for Berk by extending my original essay with more specific "why Berk" information; however, as of last year, I'm pretty sure they have added a "Why Berkeley" portion to their app. So, I'm just gonna keep my essay at two pages and then write a "why Berkeley" essay as well.

It's definitely better to write an excellent, tight, two-page essay than to write a loose, fluffy four-pager. If they had a minimum, they would say so.

• Board index Law School Admissions Law School Admissions Forum

Berkeley Personal Statement Forum

Berkeley Personal Statement

Post by zeglo » Fri Mar 11, 2016 1:24 pm

Re: Berkeley Personal Statement

Post by JFO1833 » Sat Mar 12, 2016 9:52 pm

Post by Lawcat11 » Sat Mar 12, 2016 10:18 pm

Post by Pikapika » Sun Mar 13, 2016 6:55 am

Post by zeglo » Mon Mar 14, 2016 7:52 am

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Post by lymenheimer » Mon Mar 14, 2016 9:14 am

zeglo wrote: Thanks for the feedback. So I guess I can expand my current paper. Also, why do people keep asking if I am applying this cycle? Isn't the cycle over at this point?

Post by zeglo » Mon Mar 14, 2016 11:33 am

Post by lymenheimer » Mon Mar 14, 2016 11:39 am

zeglo wrote: I am literally not able to apply to Berkeley anymore. It's closed.

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The University of Chicago The Law School

In their own words: admissions essays that worked.

Throughout this issue, countless examples show why we are so proud of the students at the law school. One might think that we get lucky that the students the admissions office chose for their academic accomplishments also turn out to be incredible members of our community, but it’s really all by design. Our students show us a great deal more in their applications than just academics—and we care about a lot more than their numbers. In these pages, meet five of our students in the way we first met them: through the personal statements they wrote for their law school applications. And through their photos, meet a sixth: Andreas Baum, ’12, the talented student photographer who took these pictures for us.

Tammy Wang, ’12

EDUCATION: Johns Hopkins University, BA in International Relations, concentration East Asian Studies, with honors (2007) WORK EXPERIENCE: AsianFanatics.net LAW SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: University of Chicago Law Review, Immigrant Child Advocacy Project Clinic, APALSA, Admissions Committee, Law School Film Festival I fell in love for the first time when I was four. That was the year my mother signed me up for piano lessons. I can still remember touching those bright, ivory keys with reverence, feeling happy and excited that soon I would be playing those tinkling, familiar melodies (which my mother played every day on our boombox) myself. To my rather naïve surprise, however, instead of setting the score for Für Elise on the piano stand before me, my piano teacher handed me a set of Beginner’s Books. I was to read through the Book of Theory, learn to read the basic notes of the treble and bass clefs, and practice, my palm arched as though an imaginary apple were cupped between my fingers, playing one note at a time. After I had mastered the note of “C,” she promised, I could move on to “D.” It took a few years of theory and repetition before I was presented with my very first full-length classical piece: a sonatina by Muzio Clementi. I practiced the new piece daily, diligently following the written directives of the composer. I hit each staccato note crisply and played each crescendo and every decrescendo dutifully. I performed the piece triumphantly for my teacher and lifted my hands with a flourish as I finished. Instead of clapping, however, my teacher gave me a serious look and took both my hands in hers. “Music,” she said sincerely, “is not just technique. It’s not just fingers or memorization. It comes from the heart.” That was how I discovered passion. Beethoven, Mozart, Mendelssohn: the arcs and passages of intricate notes are lines of genius printed on paper, but ultimately, it is the musician who coaxes them to life. They are open to artistic and emotional interpretation, and even eight simple bars can inspire well over a dozen different variations. I poured my happiness and my angst into the keys, loving every minute of it. I pictured things, events, and people (some real, some entirely imagined— but all intensely personal) in my mind as I played, and the feelings and melodies flowed easily: frustration into Beethoven’s Sonata Pathétique, wistfulness into Chopin’s nocturnes and waltzes, and sheer joy into Schubert. Practice was no longer a chore; it was a privilege and a delight. In high school, I began playing the piano for church services. The music director gave me a binder full of 1-2-3 sheet music, in which melodies are written as numbers instead of as notes on a music staff. To make things a bit more interesting for myself—and for the congregation—I took to experimenting, pairing the written melodies with chords and harmonies of my own creation. I rarely played a song the same way twice; the beauty of improvisation, of songwriting, is that it is as much “feeling” as it is logic and theory. Different occasions and different moods yielded different results: sometimes, “Listen Quietly” was clean and beautiful in its simplicity; other times, it became elaborate and nearly classical in its passages. The basic melody and musical key, however, remained the same, even as the embellishments changed. The foundation of good improvisation and songwriting is simple: understanding the musical key in which a song is played—knowing the scale, the chords, the harmonies, and how well (or unwell) they work together—is essential. Songs can be rewritten and reinterpreted as situation permits, but missteps are obvious because the fundamental laws of music and harmony do not change. Although my formal music education ended when I entered college, the lessons I have learned over the years have remained close and relevant to my life. I have acquired a lifestyle of discipline and internalized the drive for self-improvement. I have gained an appreciation for the complexities and the subtleties of interpretation. I understand the importance of having both a sound foundation and a dedication to constant study. I understand that to possess a passion and personal interest in something, to think for myself, is just as important.

Josh Mahoney, ’13

EDUCATION: University of Northern Iowa, BA in Economics and English, magna cum laude (2009) LAW SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: Student Admissions Committee, flag football, Tony Patiño Fellow The turning point of my college football career came early in my third year. At the end of the second practice of the season, in ninety-five-degree heat, our head coach decided to condition the entire team. Sharp, excruciating pain shot down my legs as he summoned us repeatedly to the line to run wind sprints. I collapsed as I turned the corner on the final sprint. Muscle spasms spread throughout my body, and I briefly passed out. Severely dehydrated, I was rushed to the hospital and quickly given more than three liters of fluids intravenously. As I rested in a hospital recovery room, I realized my collapse on the field symbolized broader frustrations I felt playing college football. I was mentally and physically defeated. In South Dakota I was a dominant football player in high school, but at the Division I level my talent was less conspicuous. In my first three years, I was convinced that obsessively training my body to run faster and be stronger would earn me a starting position. The conditioning drill that afternoon revealed the futility of my approach. I had thrust my energies into becoming a player I could never be. As a result, I lost confidence in my identity. I considered other aspects of my life where my intellect, work ethic, and determination had produced positive results. I chose to study economics and English because processing abstract concepts and ideas in diverse disciplines was intuitively rewarding. Despite the exhaustion of studying late into the night after grueling football practices, I developed an affinity for academia that culminated in two undergraduate research projects in economics. Gathering data, reviewing previous literature, and ultimately offering my own contribution to economic knowledge was exhilarating. Indeed, undergraduate research affirmed my desire to attend law school, where I could more thoroughly satisfy my intellectual curiosity. In English classes, I enjoyed writing critically about literary works while adding my own voice to academic discussions. My efforts generated high marks and praise from professors, but this success made my disappointment with football more pronounced. The challenge of collegiate athletics felt insurmountable. However, I reminded myself that at the Division I level I was able to compete with and against some of the best players in the country.While I might never start a game, the opportunity to discover and test my abilities had initially compelled me to choose a Division I football program. After the hospital visit, my football position coach—sensing my mounting frustrations—offered some advice. Instead of devoting my energies almost exclusively to physical preparation, he said, I should approach college football with the same mental focus I brought to my academic studies. I began to devour scouting reports and to analyze the complex reasoning behind defensive philosophies and schemes. I studied film and discovered ways to anticipate plays from the offense and become a more effective player. Armed with renewed confidence, I finally earned a starting position in the beginning of my fourth year. My team opened the season against Brigham Young University (BYU). I performed well despite the pressures of starting my first game in front of a hostile crowd of 65,000 people. The next day, my head coach announced the grade of every starting player’s efforts in the BYU game at a team meeting: “Mahoney—94 percent.” I had received the highest grade on the team. After three years of A’s in the classroom, I finally earned my first ‘A’ in football. I used mental preparation to maintain my competitive edge for the rest of the season. Through a combination of film study and will power, I led my team and conference in tackles. I became one of the best players in the conference and a leader on a team that reached the semi-finals of the Division I football playoffs. The most rewarding part of the season, though, was what I learned about myself in the process. When I finally stopped struggling to become the player I thought I needed to be, I developed self-awareness and confidence in the person I was. The image of me writhing in pain on the practice field sometimes slips back into my thoughts as I decide where to apply to law school. College football taught me to recognize my weaknesses and look for ways to overcome them. I will enter law school a much stronger person and student because of my experiences on the football field and in the classroom. My decision where to attend law school mirrors my decision where to play college football. I want to study law at the University of Chicago Law School because it provides the best combination of professors, students, and resources in the country. In Division I college football, I succeeded when I took advantage of my opportunities. I hope the University of Chicago will give me an opportunity to succeed again.

Osama Hamdy, '13

EDUCATION: University of California, Berkeley, BA in Legal Studies, AB in Media Studies (2010) LAW SCHOOL ACTIVITES: BLSA, Intramural Basketball I was a shy thirteen-year-old who had already lived in six locations and attended five schools. Having recently moved, I was relieved when I finally began to develop a new group of friends. However, the days following September 11, 2001, were marked with change. People began to stare at me. Many conversations came to a nervous stop when I walked by. However, it wasn’t until one of my peers asked if I was a terrorist that it really hit me. Osama, my name is Osama. I went from having a unique name that served as a conversation starter to having the same name as the most wanted man in America. The stares and the comments were just the beginning. Eventually I received a death threat at school. I remember crying alone in my room, afraid to tell my parents in fear that they might not let me go to school anymore. My experience opened my eyes up to racial and religious dynamics in the United States. I started to see how these dynamics drove people’s actions, even if some were not aware of the reasons. The more I looked at my surroundings with a critical eye, the more I realized that my classmates had not threatened me because of hate, but because of fear and ignorance. This realization was extremely empowering. I knew that mirroring their hostility would only reinforce the fear and prejudice they held. Instead, I reached out to my peers with an open mind and respect. My acceptance of others served as a powerful counter example to many negative stereotypes I had to face.With this approach, I was often able to transform fear into acceptance, and acceptance into appreciation. I chose not to hide my heritage or myself, despite the fear of judgment or violence. As a result, I developed a new sense of self-reliance and self-confidence. However, I wasn’t satisfied with the change that I had brought about in my own life. I wanted to empower others as well. My passion for equality and social justice grew because I was determined to use my skills and viewpoint to unite multiple marginalized communities and help foster understanding and appreciation for our differences and similarities alike. The years following September 11th were a true test of character for me. I learned how to feel comfortable in uncomfortable situations. This allowed me to become a dynamic and outgoing individual. This newfound confidence fueled a passion to become a leader and help uplift multiple minority communities. During the last two summers I made this passion a reality when I took the opportunity to work with underprivileged minority students. All of the students I worked with came from difficult backgrounds and many didn’t feel as though college was an option for them. I learned these students’ goals and aspirations, as well as their obstacles and hardships. I believed in them, and I constantly told them that they would make it. I worked relentlessly to make sure my actions matched my words of encouragement. I went well above the expectations of my job and took the initiative to plan several additional workshops on topics such as public speaking, time management, and confidence building. My extra efforts helped give these students the tools they needed to succeed. One hundred percent of the twenty-one high school juniors I worked with my first summer are now freshmen at four-year universities. I feel great pride in having helped these students achieve this important goal. I know that they will be able to use these tools to continue to succeed. Inspired by my summer experience, I jumped at the opportunity to take on the position of Diversity Outreach Ambassador for the San Francisco Bar Association Diversity Pipeline Program. In this position, I was responsible for helping organize a campus event that brought educational material and a panel of lawyers to UC Berkeley in order to empower and inform minority students about their opportunities in law school. In this position I was able to unite a diverse group of organizations, including the Black Pre-Law Association, the Latino Pre-Law Society, and the Haas Undergraduate Black Business Association. Working in this position was instrumental in solidifying my desire to attend law school. The lawyers who volunteered their time had a significant impact on me. I learned that they used their legal education to assist causes and organizations they felt passionate about. One of the lawyers told me that she volunteered her legal services to a Latino advocacy association. Another lawyer explained to me how he donated his legal expertise to advise minority youth on how to overcome legal difficulties. Collaborating with these lawyers gave me a better understanding of how my passion for law could interact with my interest in social justice issues. My experiences leading minority groups taught me that I need to stand out to lead others and myself to success. I need to be proud of my culture and myself. My experiences after September 11th have taught me to defeat the difficulties in life instead of allowing them to defeat me. Now, whether I am hit with a racial slur or I encounter any obstacles in life, I no longer retreat, but I confront it fearlessly and directly. I expect law school will help give me the tools to continue to unite and work with a diverse group of people. I hope to continue to empower and lead minority communities as we strive towards legal and social equality.

Eliza Riffe, '13

EDUCATION: University of Chicago, AB in Anthropology, with honors (2006) WORK EXPERIENCE: Sarbanes-Oxley coordinator and financial analyst, ABM Industries Harper Library, situated at the center of the main quadrangle at the University of Chicago, resembles a converted abbey, with its vaulted ceilings and arched windows. The library was completed in 1912, before Enrico Fermi built the world’s first nuclear reactor, before Milton Friedman devised the permanent income hypothesis, and well before Barack Obama taught Constitutional Law. Generations of scholars have pored over Adam Smith and Karl Marx in the main reading room, penned world-class treatises at the long wooden tables, and worn their coats indoors against the drafts in the spacious Gothic hall. Abiding over all of these scholars, and over me when I was among them, is an inscription under the library’s west window that has served as my guiding intellectual principle: “Read not to believe or contradict, but to weigh and consider.” Per this inscription, which is an abridgement of a passage by Sir Francis Bacon, we readers ought to approach knowledge as a means of enhancing our judgment and not as fodder for proclamations or discord. The generations of scholars poring over Marx, for example, should seek to observe his theories of economic determinism in the world, not immediately begin to foment a riot in the drafty reading room at Harper. The reader may contend, though, that too much weighing and considering could lead to inertia, or worse, to a total lack of conviction. The Harper inscription, however, does not tell its readers to believe in nothing, nor does it instruct them never to contradict a false claim. Instead it prescribes a way to read. The inscription warns us to use knowledge not as a rhetorical weapon, but as a tool for making balanced and informed decisions. On the cruelest days in February during my undergraduate years, when I asked myself why I had not chosen to pursue my studies someplace warmer, I would head to Harper, find a seat from which I would have a clear view of the inscription, and say to myself: “That is why.” On such a day in February, seated at a long Harper table with my coat still buttoned all the way up, I discovered how much I appreciated Carl Schmitt’s clarity and argumentation. I marveled at the way his Concept of the Political progressed incrementally, beginning at the most fundamental, linguistic level. As an anthropology student, I wrongfully assumed that, because Schmitt was often positioned in a neo-conservative tradition, I could not acknowledge him. That day in February, I took the Bacon inscription to heart, modeled its discipline, and was able to transcend that academic tribalism. I added the kernel of The Concept of the Political , Schmitt’s “friend-enemy” dichotomy, to an ever-growing array of images and ideas that I had accumulated, among them Marx’s alienation, C. S. Peirce’s indexicality, and Pierre Bourdieu’s graphical depiction of social space. This patchwork of theories and descriptive models, when weighed and considered, informs my understanding of new ideas I encounter. The academic dons who decided to place the Bacon quote under the western window intended that the idea would transcend the scholastic realm of its readers. Indeed, in my work as a financial analyst for a publicly traded company, it is often a professional touchstone. Though each day in the world of corporate finance is punctuated with deadlines and requests for instantaneous information, I am at my best as an analyst when I consider all of the data thoroughly and weigh the competing agendas. Like emulsified oil and vinegar that separate over time when left undisturbed, the right answer will emerge from among all of the wrong answers when I take the time to consider all of the possibilities. An extra hour spent analyzing an income statement can reveal even more trends than could a cursory glance. Moreover, the more I weigh and consider when I have the opportunity, the more I enhance the judgment I will need to make quick decisions and pronouncements when I do not have time.With inner vision sharpened by years of consideration, I am able to “see into the life of things,” as Wordsworth described in writing of “Tintern Abbey.” Wordsworth’s memory of the abbey provided him much-needed transcendence in moments of loneliness or boredom. The memory of the inscription under the west window at Harper—“Read not to believe or contradict, but to weigh and consider”—has a similar function. For Wordsworth, Tintern alleviated emotional anguish; for me, the Bacon inscription reaffirms a sense of intellectual purpose. The words under the window, their meaning, and the very curvature of the letters in the stone are fixed in my mind and will continue to be as I enter the life of the law. What intrigues me most about legal education is the opportunity to engage simultaneously in the two complementary processes the Harper inscription inspires in me—building a foundation of theories and descriptive models while enhancing my judgment with practice and patience.

Evan Rose, '13

EDUCATION: University of Otago (New Zealand), BA in Philosophy (1999) WORK EXPERIENCE: Ski and Snowboard Schools of Aspen/Snowmass, Eurospecs Limited (NZ) LAW SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: LSA 1L Representative, BLSA, Student Admissions Committee As I tumble through the air, time seems to slow. I have fallen hard many times before, but even before I hit the ground I can tell this fall is different. I complete one and a half back flips and slam shoulders-first into the slope. As I lie on the hill, the snow jammed into the hood of my jacket begins to melt, and icy water runs down my back. I do not yet know that the impact has broken my neck. I grew up only a short drive from some of New Zealand’s best ski resorts, but my family could never afford ski vacations. My first opportunity to try snowboarding came on a trip with my university flatmate.With expectations shaped purely by the media, I left for the trip assuming snowboarding was a sport for adrenaline junkies, troublemakers, and delinquents. Much to my surprise, I instead found that it provided me with a sense of peace that defied these preconceptions. Anxiety had been a constant companion throughout much of my childhood. I had not always been this way, but years of physical and psychological abuse at the hands of my stepfather had taken their toll. My once carefree demeanor had changed, leaving me fearful, panicky, and timid. On a snowboard these feelings faded into the background for the first time in years, and the difference was profound. I never truly realized the pain I had endured until riding gave me the opportunity to escape it. I sought out every possible opportunity to go riding, and through the sport I pushed the limits of both my physical and mental courage. Snowboarding became a vehicle for regaining the confidence and self-worth that had been taken from me through the injustice of abuse. Even as I began to ride competitively in boardercross racing and halfpipe, launching myself into the air over sixty-foot jumps, the sense of peace I gained during my first day on a snowboard stayed with me. It did, at least, until that April afternoon. As I lay in a hospital bed a few hours after my accident, an overwhelming sense of fear replaced any confidence that snowboarding had instilled in me. I faced the prospect of a lengthy and complicated surgery, with no certainty about the outcome. I knew my shattered vertebrae could easily leave me paralyzed. I was lucky to be alive, but any sense of luck eluded me as pain sent me in and out of consciousness. Two days later, surgeons worked for seven hours to rebuild my neck. I awoke to learn that I had escaped any serious nerve damage. However, I would need to be immobilized by a brace twenty-four hours a day, and for over three months, before I could even contemplate rehabilitation. Those months passed slowly. When I was finally able to start the process of rehabilitation, I made recovery my full-time job. I quickly learned that pain was to become the central reality of that year. The first day I could walk to my mailbox marked a significant achievement. Determined to return to full health, and even hoping to eventually return to riding, I gritted my teeth through the daily therapy sessions. At each subsequent visit, my doctor expressed his surprise at the progress of my recovery. Only twelve months after my injury, he cleared me to make a few careful runs on an easy, groomed slope. While I made it through those first few runs safely, they left me shaking with fear. Since then, I have again found joy in riding, but no amount of determination will allow me to ride the way I had before. I won’t be attempting double back flips again any time soon. Rather than focusing on my own riding, I now direct my energy into coaching. My experiences showed me the transformative power of courage and self-confidence, and taught me to build these qualities in others. At the Aspen Skiing Company, I develop and implement teaching curricula for more than two hundred snowboard instructors. My goal is for my fellow coaches to recognize that snowboarding can offer much more than just a diversion. It has the potential to have a profound and inspiring impact on their students’ lives. In the ample time my recovery allowed for reflection, I found solace in the fact that the abuse in my childhood fostered in me not bitterness, but an enduring dedication to fairness and justice. As a college student, this dedication led me to seek out classes in ethics and morality. As a manager and leader, I strive to display both courage and enduring fairness. My interest in the legal profession stems from my belief that laws represent the concrete expressions of justice and fairness in our society. After discovering the salvation it held for me, I believed that I was reliant on snowboarding. Yet, being forced to face the grueling process of rehabilitation without it allowed me to take the final step to recovery from the trauma of my childhood. I realized I am much stronger and more resilient than I had previously believed. I realized that courage is not something that snowboarding gave me but something that has always been within me. These realizations have prepared me to broaden the scope of my dedication to justice. Secure in the knowledge that the courage and determination I have shown will help shape my future success, I am now ready to take on this new challenge: the study and practice of law.  

Financial and programmatic support

The Berkeley Law Public Interest Scholars Program is a three-year scholarship covering full tuition and fees  for J.D. students dedicated to public interest work. As part of its public mission and commitment to public interest students, Berkeley Law admitted the first class of Public Interest Scholars in 2021.  

Recipients will join the Public Interest Scholars community . Throughout the year, Scholars will attend networking and social events with like-minded s tudents, staff, faculty, alumni, and local attorneys.

With the Public Interest Scholars Program, Berkeley Law hopes to reduce the barriers law students face when deciding whether to pursue public interest legal careers. By accepting the Public Interest Scholarship, recipients commit to entering public interest work during their summers and after law school.

How to apply

Candidates for the Public Interest Scholars Program must have a demonstrated interest and commitment to public interest legal work during and after law school . “Public interest” encompasses a broad range of practice areas and workplaces, but most often refers to work with a nonprofit, government agency, union, plaintiffs’ side firm, educational institution, community organization, or international NGO.

To apply, you must submit a one to two page essay addressing the following prompt:  Knowing the challenges that can come with pursuing a public interest legal career, what drives you toward your goals, and how do you plan to make a meaningful impact with your legal degree? Your essay must be included with your initial application materials. Please be sure your other application materials, such as your personal statement and resume, reflect your interest, experience, and commitment to the field.

Review and selection

The deadline to apply is December 15, 2024 . Early decision applicants must apply by November 15, 2024.

To ensure that you have a completed application by the review period, you must have taken the LSAT or other accepted standardized tests by the end of November. All of your required application materials must be submitted by the deadline.

Every admitted student who applies for the program by the deadline will be evaluated. We are looking for a strong commitment to public interest work pre-law school and a desire to continue in public interest work at Berkeley Law and beyond. Successful applicants demonstrate a commitment to public interest work, a strong likelihood of entering public service after graduation, and an orientation toward leadership and initiative. We are looking for people who will be able to leave their mark on Berkeley Law and have a positive impact on their community.

Finalists may be required to complete additional essays or interviews with the scholarship committee.

Faculty mentor

Jonathan Simon joined the Berkeley Law faculty in 2003 as part of the J.D., JSP, and Legal Studies programs. He teaches in the areas of criminal law, criminal procedure, criminology, legal studies and the sociology of law.  

Professor Simon’s scholarship concerns the role of crime and criminal justice in governing contemporary societies, risk and the law, and the history of the interdisciplinary study of law. His published works include over seventy articles and book chapters, and three single authored monographs, including: Poor Discipline: Parole and the Social Control of the Underclass  (University of Chicago 1993, winner of the American Sociological Association’s sociology of law book prize, 1994),  Governing through Crime: How the War on Crime Transformed American Democracy and Created a Culture of Fear  (Oxford University Press 2007, winner of the American Society of Criminology, Hindelang Award 2010) and  Mass Incarceration on Trial: A Remarkable Court Decision and the Future of Prisons in America (New Press 2014).

Simon has served as the co-editor-in-chief of the journal,  Punishment and Society , and the co-editor of the  Sage Handbook of Punishment & Society  (along with Richard Sparks). He is a member of the Law & Society Association and the American Society of Criminology. Simon’s scholarship has been recognized internationally with appointment as a Leverhulme Visiting Professorship at the University of Edinburgh (2010-11), a Fellow of the Israeli Institute for Advanced Studies (2016), and a Fellow of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (2018). In 2016 Simon was recognized for his scholarship on the human rights of prisoners with the  Docteur honoris causa de la Faculté et de l’Institut, Faculté de Droit et Criminologie, Université Catholique de Louvain .

Meet the Scholars

Jump to: Class of 2027 , Class of 2026 , Class of 2025 , Class of 2024

Class of 2027

Andrew boardman.

Andrew’s work before law school focused on actualizing the potential of the U.S. tax system to deliver shared prosperity and economic security. As a Policy Analyst at the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy in Washington, D.C., Andrew published research and advised lawmakers and advocates. His analysis shaped policy debates and appeared in outlets including Bloomberg, Politico, and Business Insider. He previously served as a Research Assistant at the Urban Institute, a volunteer tax preparer for low-income families, and a fellow and American Rescue Plan Act policy consultant to the City of Providence, R.I. He is a Harry S. Truman Scholar.

At Berkeley Law, Andrew intends to deepen his understanding of legal and public policy pathways to a just economy. He looks forward to participating in a robust community dedicated to public service as a Public Interest Scholar. A lifelong product of public education, Andrew is honored to be pursuing his legal education at one of the world’s premier public institutions. He enjoys exploring new places on bike, live music, and iced americanos.

Mahima Chaudhary

After graduating college, Mahima worked as a paralegal for two different law firms before landing her pre law school dream job of working at the American Civil Liberties Union of Colorado in Denver. In this role, she assisted attorneys in investigating and litigating constitutional rights violations across the state and recognized her passion for defending and extending civil liberties.

Mahima hopes to leverage her education at Berkeley Law to pursue a career in either international human rights or civil rights. She views a law degree as an invaluable tool to expand access to justice and shape a more equitable society. In her free time, Mahima enjoys rock climbing, obsessing over dogs, reading fiction in parks, and napping in the sun.

Alice Cheng

Recognizing the larger systemic changes needed to support young people and their families, Alice hopes to continue to work towards education equity and racial justice. At Berkeley Law, she hopes to learn more about community and movement lawyering. She hopes to continue to learn, grow, and organize as she steps into law school as a Public Interest Scholar.

In her free time, she likes to eat pastries, spend time with family and friends, watch reality TV, and be in the sun (and ideally the water).

Renee Hernandez Rodriguez

After graduating, Renee discovered her passion for advocacy at the Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center. At Las Americas, she helped defend immigrant survivors of domestic violence in the El Paso community. She then transitioned to working as a legal assistant at the Florence Immigrant and Refugee Rights Project (FIRRP) in Arizona. For nearly four years, Renee helped advocate and provide legal representation for immigrant unaccompanied children seeking safety in the United States. Renee’s time supporting her clients inspired her to pursue a career in immigration law as well as to transform the immigration industrial complex.

Renee is excited to use her law degree to continue defending and empowering immigrant children and engender broad change in immigration policies through impact litigation. In her free time, Renee enjoys reading, hiking outdoors, and cooking new recipes from around the world to share with friends.

Perpetua Hilton

After Petra’s Master’s Degree and a short period of living in the United Kingdom, she began working at the Habeas Corpus Resource Center in San Francisco. Over her eight year tenure there, she rose from Clerical Assistant through Paralegal positions into the role of Senior Paralegal. As a paralegal Petra worked on habeas corpus litigation for indigent clients imprisoned on California’s death row, most of whom were convicted multiple decades prior, and whose claims ranged from juror misconduct and intellectual disability to actual innocence. She also volunteered to work in the office’s hiring practices, as well as its ongoing intra-office Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts.

Petra is primarily interested in criminal law, specifically trial and post-conviction advocacy. She is also interested in public advocacy for LGBTQ people, and criminal legal reform (especially on the topic of sex work decriminalization). Her hobbies outside of work include photography, traditional noir and transgressive horror film, as well as punk and industrial music. She lives with her spouse and 7-pound chihuahua.

Lauren Meadows

Central to Lauren’s academic and professional interests is the global trend of democratic backsliding, and how it can be mitigated. After graduation, Lauren worked as a James C. Gaither Junior Fellow with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, DC. There, Lauren conducted research to inform international and domestic policymaking on democracy, conflict, and governance issues. She is especially proud of her work supporting the National Task Force on Election Crises during the 2020 election season. In 2021, Lauren joined the States United Democracy Center: a nonpartisan organization providing pro bono legal, communications, and research support to statewide election officials.

At Berkeley Law, Lauren hopes to continue her work at the nexus of law and political economy. She aims to use her degree to defend human rights and democratic norms in the face of ascendant authoritarianism, reform broken political institutions and processes, and strengthen the social contract by advancing ethical, transparent, and responsive government at all levels. In her free time, Lauren is an avid hiker, amateur photographer, and voracious science fiction and fantasy reader.

Ben’s intersecting interests in urban policy, housing and environmental justice, city government, and direct services bring him to Berkeley Law. He is excited to return to his hometown, support his family and community, and eat his way through the Bay Area.

Meghan Riddlespurger

After earning her Master’s in City and Regional Planning from the University of Texas at Arlington, Meghan’s focus shifted toward housing justice during her tenure as a city planner in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. There, she advocated for affordable housing proposals and tackled exclusionary zoning practices, initiating significant technology and policy reforms in city planning processes.

Relocating to the Bay Area in 2020, Meghan continued her advocacy in San Carlos, California. As a city planner, she drafted a new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance, helped reform development standards for multifamily projects, and improved building permit processes, making housing development in San Carlos more accessible. In 2023, Meghan transitioned to a role with the State of California as a housing policy analyst with the Department of Housing and Community Development’s ADU Team, where she helped applicants navigate obstacles to building ADUs and collaborated with California jurisdictions to align their local regulations with state housing laws.

Building upon her public service career in urban planning and development roles, Meghan intends to use her law degree to advance housing opportunities, especially in response to regulatory challenges and climate migration. Meghan is grateful and excited to join the Berkeley Law community and looks forward to contributing to public interest efforts alongside her classmates. Meghan spends her free time succulent gardening, making art, and walking (or being walked by) her dogs.

Rose Strauss

Anna Tropiano

After graduation, Anna moved to San Diego to work as a legal assistant at Sanford Heisler Sharp, LLP, a national employment discrimination and civil rights law firm. During her two years at the firm, Anna supported clients bringing claims of race, gender and pregnancy discrimination on pre-suit matters as well as several matters in litigation; most recently, Anna assisted the legal team during the Mattson v. Milliman, Inc. trial in the Western District of Washington which brought claims of fiduciary abuse against a consulting firm.

Anna is excited to stay in California and plans to use her time at Berkeley Law to learn how to combat the criminalization of pregnancy and other reproductive injustices in the legal system. In her free time, Anna enjoys cooking her family’s Italian recipes, enjoying the outdoors, and attempting the New York Times Sunday crosswords.

Apoorva Verghese

After graduation, Apoorva volunteered as a naturalization tutor and worked with InReach, a tech nonprofit that compiles safe and affirming resources for queer individuals across North America.

Apoorva is excited to spend time in the Bay Area. She hopes to use her time at Berkeley Law to further her understanding of criminal systems, abolition, and the uses and limits of the law as a tool. In her free time she enjoys reading cheesy romance novels and experimenting with new baking recipes.

Class of 2026

Samahria alpern.

After graduating, Samahria worked as a paralegal for two years at Children’s Rights in New York City. There, she supported class action impact litigation cases addressing issues including the over-administration of psychotropic medication to youth with mental health needs in foster care and the provision of legally mandated special education services to youth incarcerated at an adult jail.

Samahria aspires to use her law degree to help build creative and anti-racist alternatives to the punitive legal institutions that underpin incarceration and family separation. In her free time, Samahria finds joy playing piano, painting, and picking up new grandmotherly crafts like weaving.

Nick Delehanty

After college, Nick turned his attention to state-created injustices and inequities in the criminal legal system, working at Federal Defenders of New York for five years: as paralegal, as chief paralegal, and then as the organization’s first data director. Nick participated in the holistic defense of hundreds of clients from pre-arraignment to post-sentencing, including supporting attorneys and clients in the courtroom in multi-week trials and suppression hearings. In one notable case, Nick developed digital investigatory leads over three years that contributed to the U.S. Department of Justice dropping the death penalty against a client facing federal murder charges. As chief paralegal, Nick worked to improve working conditions for non-attorney staff at Federal Defenders and to increase the fairness and equity of office processes like workload distribution, case assignment, and hiring.

Nick became the first data director at Federal Defenders thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with hundreds of incarcerated clients who were cut off from their legal teams by the pandemic, Nick used the long days of isolation to teach himself to code. He then developed a first-of-its-kind legal call request and scheduling system for the entire New York defense bar. This system has to date enabled over 45,000 legal calls with incarcerated people at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center, the largest pre-trial detention facility in the United States.

At Berkeley Law, Nick is a member of the Post-Conviction Advocacy Project where he works as part of a three-person law student team to represent someone serving a life sentence before the California Board of Parole Hearings. He is also a member of the Law and Political Economy Society and Defenders at Berkeley. During his 1L summer, he interned at the Office of the State Public Defender, assisting in the direct appeals of people sentenced to death in California. Nick enjoys outdoor rock climbing, reading about labor history and philosophy, and not taking himself too seriously.

Léo Mandani

After graduating, Léo moved back to California to work as a Paralegal at Altshuler Berzon LLP. There, they have assisted on a number of class actions that aim to advance workers’ rights, both directly in the labor context, such as combating gender wage discrepancies, and indirectly in the consumer protection context, such as challenging predatory vocational programs.

At Berkeley Law, Léo is excited to explore how to best attain economic justice through legislative drafting and impact litigation in the workplace and hopes to bring a perspective of the law that centers anti-poverty as one of its core tenets. In their spare time, Léo likes reading memoirs, perfecting their Iranian stew recipes, and developing an encyclopedic knowledge of the Real Housewives.

Cindy Nguyen

As a scholar, Cindy has extensively studied and approached environmental issues with an equity and racial-justice lens. Her senior thesis, for which she received an Honors in Environmental Studies, explored attitudes of nail technicians toward environmental-health concerns in Vietnamese owned and operated nail salons in Snohomish County, Washington. Her research on the social, economic, and physical dimensions of climate vulnerability in Caribbean small island developing states (SIDS) has also been published in Caribbean Geography and Frontiers in Environmental Science.

Following graduation, Cindy spent nearly two years as a Roger Arliner Young Clean Energy Fellow with Rocky Mountain Institute’s (RMI) Islands Energy Program. In her role, she provided technical research, analysis, and writing to support the development of clean energy pathways in Caribbean SIDS. In 2022, Cindy transitioned to working with RMI’s Climate Finance Access Network to help increase access to climate finance for capacity-constrained countries in the Global South. Her time supporting countries carve their own climate and development futures and build resilience deeply inspired her to seek out how traditional tools of power, including the law, can be used to bring power back into historically impacted communities.

Meghana Ravikumar

Post-graduation, she worked as an immigration paralegal for four years, assisting undocumented immigrants with a variety of legal cases. She also collaborated with local organizers and community members as part of a coalition dedicated to halting local ICE transfers. Her experience at the organization proved to be a formative one and led to an interest in community organizing, movement lawyering, criminal legal reform, and abolition. Many of the nonprofit’s clients were Mexican and Mexican American, which sparked a desire in Meghana to learn more about Mexico and develop a more nuanced understanding of migration factors. She then spent 2 years teaching English in Mexico as a Fulbright grantee, specifically in the cities of Aguascalientes and Merida.

At Berkeley Law, Meghana hopes to learn more about movement lawyering, criminal legal reform, abolition, and restorative justice. Her goal is to use her law degree to support those communities most affected by policing and the criminal legal system. In her free time, Meghana enjoys reading, watching movies, and dancing salsa and bachata.

Emily Rehmet

After graduation, Emily worked for three years as a Clinical Research Coordinator for the Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Law, Brain & Behavior (CLBB). At CLBB, she worked on projects at the intersection of neuroscience and the law, such as a white paper on the science of the emerging adult brain for use by policymakers, judges, and attorneys.

At Berkeley Law, Emily is interested in pursuing “neuroscience for justice” and improving access to neuroscience research in the courtroom, particularly for under resourced and pro se litigants. In her free time, Emily loves to backpack to new countries, cook Taiwanese dishes with her grandmother, and practice vinyasa yoga.

Before joining Berkeley Law, Rosie served as the Managing Director for the UCLA Prison Education program where she channeled her efforts to create access for higher education to incarcerated people in county, state, and federal prisons. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Labor and Workplace Studies from UCLA and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work.

Rosie intends to use her law degree to continue serving people in underserved communities, like the one that helped raise her. In her free time, Rosie enjoys snowboarding and grounding herself with nature.

Lande Watson

Prior to pursuing a public interest legal career, Lande held advocacy and communications roles in government and nonprofits. She was a member of the communications team at the Asian Law Caucus (ALC), the country’s first legal aid and civil rights organization serving low-income Asian Pacific American communities. At ALC, she collaborated with attorneys and community advocates to oppose the double punishment of immigrant and refugee community members, fight abusive workplace practices, and support older tenants in San Francisco. Before joining ALC, Lande served as Deputy Director of Speechwriting and Research for California Governor Gavin Newsom. She is especially proud of her work on the Governor’s death penalty moratorium and the state’s COVID-19 response. Lande was also an organizer for NARAL Pro-Choice California during the 2018 election cycle. Before moving to Berkeley, she spent a year in Japan’s Ibaraki Prefecture, teaching English to high schoolers through the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET).

Lande is interested in criminal and immigration law and excited to explore the variety of public interest opportunities at Berkeley Law. She enjoys long-distance running, trying new restaurants and coffee shops, and spending time with family and friends.

Upon graduating, Ianna has been advocating for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking at Asian Americans for Community Involvement, a nonprofit in the South Bay dedicated to serving and improving the health and wellness of those who are marginalized and vulnerable in our diverse community.

She is excited to be staying in the Bay Area to attend Berkeley Law. As a first-generation professional student, she plans to study the law critically with the questions of how vulnerable communities like immigrants with language barriers, those with low socio-economic status, and those who have faced trauma will be impacted. In her free time, Ianna enjoys volunteering at her church and reading while enjoying a nice hot cup of tea.

Class of 2025

Mackenna alvarez.

After graduation, MacKenna taught 7th and 8th grade history and English in Brooklyn, New York where she created anti-racist curriculum scorecards and teaching practices for her charter network to implement across all subject areas. By working at a charter school, MacKenna deepened her passion for fighting against privatization and for tackling factors outside of education that contribute to economic inequality. She is excited to continue this work at Berkeley as a Public Interest Scholar.

In her free time, MacKenna enjoys reading, making unnecessary lists, and spending time with her cat, Chubs.

Leily joins Berkeley Law after two years at the Brennan Center for Justice in New York City where she worked to end mass incarceration. She conducted research and authored analyses on a wide range of criminal justice issues, including state policing reforms following George Floyd’s murder and efforts to overhaul cash bail in California. Leily also engaged in legislative advocacy at the state and federal levels—frequently working with Congress to advance critical reforms, including legislation that would reduce incarceration during the COVID-19 pandemic and eliminate the federal crack and powder cocaine sentencing disparity.

Prior to the Brennan Center, Leily spent a year in Sacramento as a Judicial Fellow with the Judicial Council of California, the policy and rule-making body for the state’s judiciary. Leily’s work focused on promoting the equitable administration of justice in state courts. Her culminating project was a best practices guide for courts to effectively implement and comply with the Indian Child Welfare Act.

Outside of school, Leily enjoys spending time with friends and family, listening to live music, and baking sourdough bread.

Marian Avila Breach

Following an interest in the intersection between marginalization and criminalization, Marian joined the Santa Cruz Public Defender’s Office as an investigator and assisted trial attorneys preparing defendants for trial. Impulsed by her experiences in public defense, Marian sought out a tutoring opportunity with Mount Tamalpais College, an accredited college within San Quentin Prison. There, Marian helped the San Quentin Ethics Bowl team prepare for annual Ethics Bowl competitions hosted at San Quentin against teams from a variety of Bay Area universities. Marian continues to volunteer with MTC, finding joy and purpose within the MTC community.

At Berkeley Law, Marian has reaffirmed her commitment to public interest law. As an upcoming leader for La Alianza Tenants’ and Worker’s Rights SLPS, Marian hopes to further address the need for intersectional legal work in the public interest realm and sustain pathways through which Berkeley Law students can continue giving back to their community.

Ayeza Bajwa

As a law student, Ayeza has continues to pursue her passion for reproductive justice, participating in the State and Local Interest Litigation Practicum and interning on the Social Justice and Impact Litigation Team of the Santa Clara County Counsel. She has also explored a burgeoning interest in workers’ rights through internships at the National Employment Law Project and Altshuler Berzon. Ayeza has thoroughly enjoyed opportunities to mentor fellow law students as a Legal Research and Writing Tutor and Public Interest Chair for the Women+ of Color Collective. She looks forward to participating in the Ninth Circuit Practicum as a 3L.

In her free time, you can find Ayeza cooking Pakistani food or synchronized swimming.

Tiffaney Boyd

After graduation, Tiffaney spent more than five years working in politics and public service. She most recently worked as a Legislative Director in the California State Assembly. Throughout her time in government, she made a concerted effort to advocate and uplift communities of color through legislative channels. Tiffaney was instrumental in passing legislation on institutionalizing trauma-informed criminal justice reform, expanding food security for college students, and requiring Ethnic Studies for college graduates at the CSU. Beyond working for the Legislature, where she began as a Jesse M. Unruh Assembly Fellow, Tiffaney has also served as a Policy Director for a statewide ballot measure and worked as the Policy and Government Affairs Director for the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls.

Tiffaney hopes to leverage the skills gained from her time in government and her legal education to bridge the gap between access, justice, and policy for marginalized and low-income communities of color. In her spare time, Tiffaney enjoys traveling, listening to podcasts, and practicing yoga.

Julianna Gay

These experiences have emboldened Julianna to dedicate her legal career to fighting for a more just and rehabilitative carceral system. Specifically, she desires to continue to advocate for Black and Brown individuals who are often disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system.

In her free time, Julianna has a passion for painting, playing softball/volleyball, and spending time outdoors.

Mackenzie Gettel

Outside of school, Mackenzie worked under a property rights attorney as an administrative assistant. She gained experience assisting in multiple trials and preparing various court documents. Mackenzie is interested in becoming a legal advocate for homeless/at-risk youth who are occluded from legal representation.

At Berkeley Law, she’s curious to learn more about the intricacies of the homelessness crisis from an empathetic, yet an objective point of view, specifically as it relates to homeless teenagers and their pivotal positions in society. During her 1L summer, Mackenzie is interning at Bay Area Legal Aid in the Consumer Protection section. In addition to working on debt collection defense cases, she will also be working on affirmative impact litigation against a big bank, which is set to go to trial this summer. She is also working as a research assistant for Professor Davis. Here at Berkeley Law, Mackenzie is the Director of the Homelessness Service Project and helped found a new service project called the Algorithmic Justice Project in her 1L year. Under the direction of Professor Mermin, they are investigating how algorithmic decision making harms prospective tenants.

In Mackenzie’s free time, she enjoys working out, meditating, and spending time with friends and family—many of who inspired her to attend law school!

Adriana Herrera

Post-graduation, she worked as a Program Coordinator at Cool Culture, a Brooklyn-based organization that uses art and culture to propel social change in schools, cultural institutions and communities. For the past year, she has worked with the Center for Educational Leadership, supporting nationwide professional learning opportunities for K-12 district leaders. In 2021, she had the honor of contributing to the Free Minds, Free People national conference for liberatory education.

At Berkeley Law, Adriana is excited to explore the breadth of public interest opportunities in education policy and beyond. Adriana is also an aspiring baker, recovering sneaker collector, and Gemini.

Peter Mason

After graduating, Peter worked as a Paralegal at Altshuler Berzon LLP and a Legal Assistant at Gladstein, Reif & Meginniss, LLP. The two law firms specialize, among other things, in representing labor unions and workers. His exposure to that work generated an interest in the role lawyers can play supporting social movements, which he is excited to be pursuing at Berkeley Law.

As a law student, Peter is on the Executive Board of the Law and Political Economy (LPE) Society at Berkeley, as well as co-Editor-in-Chief of the Berkeley Journal of Employment and Labor Law and Podcast Editor of the California Law Review. He is also active with the labor union for academic workers across the UC system, UAW 4811.

Bhavya Sukhavasi

After graduating, Bhavya moved to Washington, DC and began work as a research assistant at the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MEDPAC), a nonpartisan legislative branch agency that provides the U.S. Congress with payment policy analysis on the Medicare program.

At Berkeley Law, Bhavya hopes to continue to explore how public health interventions can make the United States health care system more accessible, affordable, and humane. Outside of school, she is excited to try new coffee shops, trail run, and hammock with the company of a good book.

Class of 2024

Nora ellmann.

Taylor (she/her and they/them) is a Berkeley Law graduate interested in legal advocacy that advances the work of communities who are building a world beyond the prison-industrial complex. In 2020, Taylor graduated from the University of Chicago with a B.A. in Political Science, and spent her summers interning with the D.C. Public Defender Service and Legal Services for Prisoners with Children. Before law school, Taylor conducted research as a master’s student on the history of US counterinsurgency, policing, and the George Floyd uprisings. 

As a law student, Taylor has rooted their legal study in work that fights policing and surveillance through internships with Stop LAPD Spying Coalition and the Electronic Frontier Foundation. Taylor has also been a part of student-led pro bono projects that challenge the expansion of digital surveillance technologies and provide legal support to incarcerated people while at Berkeley.  These experiences have shaped Taylor’s commitment to community and movement lawyering that is grounded in an abolitionist framework. Outside of law school, Taylor is active in abolitionist and Palestine solidarity organizing in the Bay Area.

Jamilah McMillan

At Berkeley Law Jamilah spent a year doing youth defense advocacy at the East Bay Community Law Center where she represented young people in hearings and court appearances. During her 1L summer Jamilah interned at Law for Black Lives assisting with legal work for Black people in Brooklyn. During her 2L summer Jamilah became familiarized with family law after becoming a Bergstrom Fellow and interning at Brooklyn Defender Services in their Family Defense Practice. A highlight of Jamilah’s Berkeley Law experience was spending a semester abroad in South Africa doing legal work, as well as helping to organize a delegation of law students on a solidarity trip to Palestine in 2022.

Jamilah will pursue a legal career of civil rights litigation and family law as a fellow at the Family Justice Law Center in NYC.

Kevin Steen

Kevin is interested in interrupting the violence of the carceral system and facilitating pathways for healing from personal and intergenerational traumas. At Berkeley Law, he’s curious to study the systems that perpetuate white supremacy, ableism, cis-heteropatriachy, and anti-poverty. His activities at the law school include Students for Justice in Palestine, Defenders at Berkeley, the Policy Advocacy Clinic, the Abolitionist Collective at Berkeley, and Queers United in Radical Subversion. He hopes to begin his legal career as a public defender in the Bay Area.

Kevin enjoys weightlifting, hot springs, and preparing food for loved ones. He is a passionate birdwatcher and documents his exploits on Instagram @kevbirds. Recently, he was very excited to observe his first American Dipper at the Yuba River.

Amanda Young

Amanda Young (she/her) is a proud Bay Area native and is excited to continue local advocacy at Berkeley Law. Most recently, she worked as an Organizer and Program Associate at the ACLU of Northern California. At the ACLU, she organized with the gender, sexuality, and reproductive justice team, leading campaigns to protect reproductive and LGBTQ health care from religious restrictions, and working with labor organizers to pass local and statewide paid leave policies. Additionally, she managed an organizing and racial justice training program for young BIPOC leaders in the Central Valley.

Prior to joining the ACLU, Amanda worked at the Legal Aid Association of California in Oakland, advocating for increased legal aid funding. Before LAAC, she was an AmeriCorps fellow at Healthy Start of Southern Oregon, a national infant mortality prevention program, and also worked in Washington D.C. as a health care policy analyst.

Amanda graduated with highest honors from Duke University with an A.B. in Public Policy and a minor in Arabic.

Outside of school, Amanda serves on the board of New Leaders Council- San Francisco. She also enjoys trail running, reading astrological charts, teaching mindfulness and meditation, and baking many types of pastries.

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