8+ Sample Cover Letter Law School Application
A well-crafted cover letter law school application can make all the difference in getting accepted into your dream law school. In this article, we’ll explore the main goal of a cover letter, the key information you must include, and provide sample cover letters to inspire you.
What Is the Main Goal of a Cover Letter Law School Application?
The primary goal of a cover letter law school application is to showcase your unique strengths, achievements, and motivations, demonstrating why you’re an excellent fit for the law school. It should complement your resume and personal statement, providing a more comprehensive picture of your qualifications and potential as a law student.
By highlighting your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments, you can differentiate yourself from other applicants and increase your chances of getting accepted.
What Key Information Must I Include?
- Your motivation for pursuing a law degree
- Relevant work experience, internships, or volunteer work
- Achievements and awards that demonstrate your skills and abilities
- Personal qualities that make you an excellent fit for the law school
- A clear and concise explanation of why you’re a strong candidate
Can I See Some Examples?
Example 1: Highlighting Relevant Work Experience
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], leveraging my experience as a paralegal at XYZ Law Firm to pursue a career in law.
As a paralegal, I have developed strong research and analytical skills, which I believe will serve me well in law school. I am confident that my unique perspective and experience will enable me to make valuable contributions to the [Law School Name] community.
Sincerely,
Emily J. Smith
This example showcases the applicant’s relevant work experience as a paralegal, highlighting the skills they’ve developed and how they can be applied in law school.
Example 2: Emphasizing Personal Qualities
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], where I can leverage my strong work ethic, determination, and passion for social justice to make a positive impact.
Through my volunteer work at a local non-profit, I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of access to justice and am committed to using my skills to make a difference.
Sincerely,
Michael T. Lee
This example highlights the applicant’s personal qualities, such as their strong work ethic and passion for social justice, demonstrating how they can contribute to the law school community.
Example 3: Showcasing Achievements and Awards
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], building on my achievements as a debate team champion and winner of the regional moot court competition.
These experiences have honed my critical thinking, research, and advocacy skills, which I believe will serve me well in law school.
Sincerely,
Sarah K. Patel
This example highlights the applicant’s achievements and awards, demonstrating their skills and potential as a law student.
Example 4: Explaining Motivation
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], driven by my passion for environmental law and my desire to make a positive impact on my community.
Through my undergraduate studies and volunteer work, I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of environmental protection and am committed to using my skills to advocate for sustainable practices.
Sincerely,
David M. Kim
This example clearly explains the applicant’s motivation for pursuing a law degree, demonstrating their passion and commitment to environmental law.
Example 5: Highlighting Transferable Skills
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], leveraging my skills as a project manager to excel in law school.
My experience in managing projects and teams has developed my organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, which I believe will serve me well in law school.
Sincerely,
Christina R. Brown
This example highlights the applicant’s transferable skills, demonstrating how their experience as a project manager can be applied to law school.
Example 6: Showcasing Leadership Experience
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], building on my leadership experience as president of my undergraduate student organization.
As president, I have developed strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which I believe will enable me to make valuable contributions to the [Law School Name] community.
Sincerely,
Alexander J. Martin
This example highlights the applicant’s leadership experience, demonstrating their ability to lead and make a positive impact.
Example 7: Emphasizing Community Involvement
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], committed to using my skills to make a positive impact in my community.
Through my volunteer work at a local community center, I have developed a deep understanding of the importance of community involvement and am committed to using my skills to advocate for social justice.
Sincerely,
Jessica L. Davis
This example highlights the applicant’s community involvement, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact.
Example 8: Highlighting International Experience
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am excited to apply to the Juris Doctor program at [Law School Name], building on my international experience as a study abroad student in Spain.
This experience has broadened my perspective, developed my language skills, and deepened my understanding of cultural differences, which I believe will enable me to make valuable contributions to the [Law School Name] community.
Sincerely,
Sofia G. Rodriguez
This example highlights the applicant’s international experience, demonstrating their cultural competence and ability to adapt to new environments.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?
- Failing to proofread and edit your cover letter
- Not tailoring your cover letter to the specific law school
- Including unnecessary or irrelevant information
- Failing to demonstrate your unique strengths and achievements
- Not showcasing your passion and motivation for pursuing a law degree
Conclusion
A well-crafted cover letter law school application can make a significant difference in getting accepted into your dream law school. By highlighting your unique strengths, achievements, and motivations, and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of success.
Remember to tailor your cover letter to the specific law school, demonstrate your passion and commitment to pursuing a law degree, and showcase your skills and experiences.