Commentaries

In meeting with students both on campus and on the road, one thing is clear – too many prospective law students think that the only two things important to the admissions committee are the undergraduate GPA and the LSAT. Not only does this improperly describe the qualitative factors of the application, but also it fails to give mention to the majority of materials needed to apply.

For anyone going through the application process, it is worthwhile to read through a mini-forum held by the Deans of Admissions from several schools—namely Chicago, Michigan, NYU, Stanford, Yale, and, of course, Columbia.  The focus of the panel was to respond to frequently asked questions regarding the law school admissions process, addressing everything from work experience to letters of recommendation, personal statements to strengths and weaknesses of an application, qualitative factors of the application, and finally, the archetypical law applicant.

On the whole, your application to Columbia Law School is much more than two numbers; it is the story of who you are and where you are headed.  Every application to the Law School will be read by a minimum of two officers, so make sure that everything included in your application is polished and complete.  Lastly, do not leave us guessing.  If something needs explaining, attach an addendum.

Enjoy the fall, and best of luck in the admissions process.