Setting the Tone for Your Law School Addendum
By Sydney Montgomery, Executive Director & Founder
Demystifying Law School Addenda: How to Explain the Unexplainable
Navigating the intricacies of a law school application can be daunting, especially when encountering aspects of your academic or personal history that might raise eyebrows. One crucial element I've come to understand is the addendum—a piece of writing that allows applicants like you to address anything from a lower GPA to disciplinary action. But how exactly should you approach writing an addendum? And more importantly, how do you strike the right balance between explanation and excuse?
In this blog post, we are sharing how to create an effective addendum when applying to law school while ensuring the importance of integrity.
Understanding the Purpose of an Addendum
An addendum in a law school application serves a specific purpose: to provide context for discrepancies or issues that might otherwise leave admissions committees with questions. These could range from academic challenges like a semester with a significantly lower GPA due to personal circumstances, to more serious matters like disciplinary actions or character and fitness concerns.
From my experience of advising law school applicants for over 10 years, I've learned that these addenda are carefully read by admissions committees. It's crucial that they are concise and factual. This is not story time;it's about presenting the facts clearly and respectfully.
What Should You Include in Your Addendum?
The core of a good addendum lies in its simplicity and directness. I recommend keeping it to three to four sentences whenever possible, ensuring that you stick to the facts without delving into unnecessary detail. Whether you're explaining a medical condition that affected your grades or addressing a past legal issue, the goal remains the same: provide a clear, honest explanation without making excuses.
For instance, if your GPA suffered due to illness, state the facts straightforwardly: "In the fall of [year], I was diagnosed with [condition], which impacted my ability to maintain my grades. However, I sought appropriate treatment and support, resulting in an improved GPA in subsequent semesters."
The Importance of Taking Responsibility
It is crucial to take full responsibility for the situation described in your addendum. Admissions committees are looking for maturity and accountability. Avoid the temptation to blame others or make excuses. Instead, focus on what you've learned from the experience and how you've grown.
This approach not only demonstrates integrity but also reassures the admissions committee that you are prepared to handle challenges responsibly—a valuable trait in future legal professionals.
When Should You Write an Addendum?
Determining whether you need to write an addendum involves assessing your application from an outsider's perspective. Ask yourself: "If someone unfamiliar with my circumstances were reviewing my application, would they have questions about this particular aspect?"
If the answer is yes, encourage you to consider including an addendum. On the other hand, minor deviations like a single B amidst otherwise stellar grades typically do not require explanation.
Tips for Writing an Effective Addendum
Here are some key tips distilled from my experience and the advice of experts:
Be Concise: Keep your addendum short, typically three to four sentences, for clarity and focus.
Stick to the Facts: Present a clear and factual account without unnecessary embellishments.
Avoid Excuses: Take ownership of the situation without deflecting blame onto others or external circumstances.
End on a Positive Note: Whenever possible, conclude your addendum with a reflection on what you've learned or how you've grown from the experience.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of writing a law school addendum can be challenging, but it's an essential part of presenting a comprehensive and transparent application. By following this framework, you can craft an addendum that enhances your application by providing context and demonstrating maturity.
Remember, the addendum is your opportunity to set the record straight and showcase your ability to overcome challenges with resilience and accountability. Approach it with clarity, honesty, and a focus on what you've learned, ensuring that you present a compelling case for your admission to law school.
If you have any questions or need further insights into writing a law school addendum, feel free to reach out at hello@barrier-breaker.org. You can also submit a question to be answered on our weekly Break Into Law School® Podcast, streaming wherever your favorite podcast service is.