How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest for Law School
Applying to law school can be a long and arduous process. After submitting your application, you may find yourself waiting anxiously for a response from your dream law school. However, sometimes the admissions committee may not make a decision right away. In such cases, writing a letter of continued interest can be a helpful tool to express your continued interest and update the admissions committee on any recent achievements or developments. In this article, we will discuss how to write a letter of continued interest for law school, along with a FAQs section to address common concerns.
1. Be polite and professional: Begin your letter with a formal salutation, addressing the dean of admissions or the admissions committee. Use a professional tone throughout the letter and maintain a respectful demeanor. This is your opportunity to showcase your professionalism and maturity.
2. Express continued interest: Start by expressing your continued interest in attending the law school. Mention why you are particularly drawn to the school, such as its esteemed faculty, specialized programs, or strong alumni network. Highlight specific aspects that align with your career goals or personal interests.
3. Update on recent achievements: Use the letter to update the admissions committee on any noteworthy achievements or developments since submitting your application. This could include academic achievements, work experience, internships, or leadership roles. Emphasize how these experiences have further solidified your commitment to pursuing a legal education and why you believe they make you a strong candidate for their program.
4. Explain any improvements: If you have taken additional courses, retaken the LSAT, or made any other improvements since submitting your application, make sure to mention them in the letter. Admissions committees appreciate the dedication and effort put into improving one’s application. Show how these improvements have positively influenced your readiness for law school.
5. Address any weaknesses: If you believe there are any weaknesses in your application or aspects that may have caused concern for the admissions committee, address them honestly in your letter. Use this opportunity to provide context or additional information that may alleviate any doubts. However, avoid making excuses or sounding defensive. Instead, focus on how you have learned from those experiences and grown as a result.
6. Highlight fit and contributions: Clearly articulate how you believe you would be an asset to the law school and its community. Discuss how your unique perspectives, experiences, or skills can contribute to the overall diversity, intellectual discourse, or extracurricular activities at the school. Demonstrating your understanding of the school’s culture and values is crucial in conveying your fit for the program.
7. Proofread and edit: Before sending your letter, make sure to proofread it thoroughly for any grammatical or typographical errors. Ensure the letter is well-structured, concise, and easy to read. Avoid lengthy paragraphs and repetitive information. Your letter should be professional, polished, and error-free.
FAQs:
Q: When should I send a letter of continued interest?
A: You should send a letter of continued interest if you have not received a decision within a reasonable timeframe. Typically, this can be around 6-8 weeks after submitting your application.
Q: How long should the letter be?
A: Your letter should be concise and to the point. Aim for a length of one to two pages, depending on the content you need to include.
Q: Can I send additional materials along with the letter?
A: Unless specifically requested by the law school, it is generally not advisable to send additional materials such as writing samples or additional letters of recommendation. Stick to the information you can include in your letter.
Q: How often can I send a letter of continued interest?
A: It is generally recommended to send only one letter of continued interest. Sending multiple letters may come across as excessive and may not be viewed positively by the admissions committee.
Q: Is it necessary to follow up with the admissions office after sending the letter?
A: It is not necessary to follow up with the admissions office after sending the letter. They will review your letter and update your file accordingly. However, if you have any specific questions or concerns, you may consider reaching out to the admissions office for clarification.
In conclusion, writing a letter of continued interest for law school is an effective way to express your continued interest, update the admissions committee, and address any recent achievements or improvements since submitting your application. Follow the guidelines outlined in this article, and remember to maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout the letter. Good luck with your law school application!