Law Schools are interested in admitting students who can contribute intellectually and socially to other students, faculty, and to the school! In addition to submitting a powerful personal statement and references, a resume is another way to demonstrate your uniqueness.
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Utilize your LinkedIn Profile Page
Note that this student chose to include a link to her LinkedIn page. Having a photo that shows you are personable is a plus as is having many connections. Connections who have chosen to write a recommendation on your behalf also helps (see here on how to ask for this). Of course, remember to include your contact information at the top. Try to follow the LinkedIn or Facebook pages of some of the schools you are interested in – doing so can provide you with the latest school news and upcoming events which will help if you have a law school interview scheduled.
Caveat: do keep in mind that on LinkedIn the schools will be able to see if you liked them and which other schools you like!
Related: The Ultimate Lawyer Salary Guide [23 Fields in 2019]
Keep it Short and Simple
Another appealing quality about this resume is the layout and the easy readability! Bullet points add clarity and help important matters stand out. In terms of fonts, we prefer Arial or Georgia. We recommend having a basic chronological resume as opposed to a functional one with three different colors and odd fonts or patterns. Law schools still tend to prefer traditional designs. Keep in mind that the resume should be at least one page but no longer than two pages unless you have 10 years or more of in depth/ advanced experience. Remember to include your LSAC number too. No need to put your GPA on your resume unless your grades are high – law schools will see this information on your transcripts.
Let your Diversity and Distinctiveness Shine
We also like the fact that the resume shows that the student has lived in different parts of the country. This shows that she can adapt to different people and surroundings. You can still demonstrate your interest in diversity even if you haven’t traveled a lot or lived in different cities by having an activities and/or an interests section! Having interests such as playing an instrument, knowing how to speak a foreign language, or being involved in community can help a student stand out from other applicants.
Include Special Skills and Highlight Your Knowledge
Don’t forget to include a skills section which highlights knowledge a law school or employer would value such as knowing the latest computer programs and Bluebooking (yes, some legal employers still value bluebooking and knowledge of citations). Keep in mind that having a law firm internship or job before law school is not necessary, but it does show a sincere interest in the field! This potential law student learned how to deal with the different time constraints she is likely to encounter as a practicing attorney.
Related: Dating in Law School Guide
Convey Your Leadership and Involvement
We love the fact that this student started a weekly discussion group and participates in a range of activities. It shows initiative and the willingness to take smart risks. Participating in a wide range of activities shows her versatility.
The willingness to work hard and help others is something that employers and law-schools value. The fact that this candidate still made time to engage in community service activities gives her an A+ in our book!
This post was written by a senior LSAT admissions consultant from Odyssey LSAT Tutoring.
