10. Taking the LSAT "cold"
*scores remain on record for years
*many schools average multiple attempts on LSAT
*the top contenders are prepping for weeks beforehand
*one cannot study for test, but one can (should) prepare for it!
*there are accessible, low cost alternatives to expensive prep courses...no excuses

9. Waiting for the last minute to request letters of recommendation
*professors will receive multiple requests in lat fall
*good letters can make a difference in a close case!
*given a reasonable time frame, and some "coaching", most faculty will do a good job
*letters that are rushed are often worthless in the process

8. Not being organized/missing deadlines
*keep copies of everything you send to a law school
*pay attention to application deadlines and policies (they vary!)
*early applications generally receive more favorable consideration
*merit money is awarded early; don't miss out!

7. Applying to too few law schools
*"Everybody needs a safety school!"
*those who apply only to the Ivies may be disappointed
*apply to a range of "safety", "good chance", and "dream" schools

6. Applying too late for admission and/or financial aid
*late applications may not receive full consideration at rolling admissions schools
*taking the February LSAT for fall admission is very risky
*we're not kidding about those financial aid deadlines!
*too late = no award package from the institution

5. The imperfect personal statement
*typos are far too common; have someone proof for you!
*the tone of the statement should be positive; don't write with anger or other inappropriate emotion
*no tell-all confessionals (e.g. family stuff, relationships, etc.)
*stay away from cuteness

4. Extreme creativity
*avoid outrageousness (not the kind of attention you want!)
*gift-wrapping applications at holiday time
*no videos (unless asked for one)
*8x10 glossies are silly

3. Desperation moves
*avoid any appearance of an unbalanced psyche
*letter to the dean (will be forwarded to admissions director, anyway)
*demanding a meeting with the admissions director
*flying across the country to demand a personal interview
*viewing the admissions process as a "life or death" situation

2. Sloppiness
*aim for professionalism in all you contacts with admissions offices
*proof of any subsequent written communications just as you would your personal statement *don't send the application pieces (something will get lost)
*if you are notified that something is missing, respond promptly!

1. Dishonesty
*disclose all information that is requested
*in most cases, academic probations and/or warnings must be disclosed
*if you don't understand a question, call and ask the admissions office for an interpretation
*don't embellish on your accomplishments
*don't omit information that would be relevant to the admissions decision

Pre-Law Planning	2004 Pre-Law Courses
Pre-Law Advising	Phi Alpha Delta