Why This Law School Essay: How to Write a Strong One

What Is a “Why This Law School?” Essay?

The “Why this law school?” essay is a short but significant part of your law school application. Usually appearing as a supplemental prompt or optional essay, it asks you to explain why you’re applying to a specific school—and how that school aligns with your academic and professional goals.

This essay helps law schools determine:

• Whether you’ve done your research
• If your interests match what they offer
• Whether you’ll be a good fit for the culture and community

When written well, it’s a compelling argument for your candidacy and can help you get into law school. When written poorly (or skipped altogether), it signals disinterest or lack of preparation.

Why This Essay Is So Important

Many applicants underestimate this essay. They assume their personal statement or resume will carry enough weight. But the “Why this law school?” essay is a golden opportunity to:

• Stand out from similarly qualified candidates
• Show genuine enthusiasm and initiative
• Connect your personal story to the school’s mission

Admissions officers want to admit people who are not only qualified but also intentional about their choice. If you can show that a school isn’t just a random pick, but a carefully chosen fit, you’ll make a stronger impression. It can help you stand out at the most competitive and best law schools.

How to Research a Law School Before Writing Your Essay

Step 1: Start with the Law School’s Website

Check out:

• Clinical programs
• Centers and institutes
• Student organizations
• Mission statements

Step 2: Look at Course Catalogs and Faculty Bios

Explore courses you want to take. Identify professors whose work excites you and matches your goals.

Step 3: Explore Student Life & Organizations

Find groups or journals that align with your interests. Law reviews, identity-based organizations, and pro bono initiatives can all be great points of connection.

Step 4: Read Student Blogs or Talk to Alumni

Check LinkedIn, Reddit, or the school’s ambassador pages. Look for honest perspectives on the student experience.

Step 5: Use Your Findings to Build Connections

Create a chart like this:

Use your notes to connect your background and goals to specific elements of the school.

Want to see some law school personal statement examples?

How to Write a Standout “Why This Law School?” Essay

1. Make It Personal

Don’t just name-drop programs or faculty—tie them to your experiences, passions, or goals.

Example: “I’m eager to work with the Environmental Law Clinic because of my internship at a coastal conservation nonprofit.”

2. Show Fit and Contribution

Go beyond what you’ll gain. How will you contribute to the community?

Example: “Having founded a student legal aid initiative, I hope to collaborate with the Pro Bono Board to support access to justice.”

3. Stay Focused and Concise

Aim for 250-350 words unless the school specifies otherwise. Choose 2-3 meaningful details and explain them well.

4. Avoid Filler Language

Don’t waste space with vague praise (“Your prestigious institution...”). Be specific and authentic.

5. Proofread and Revise

Ask yourself: “Could this essay apply to any other school?” If yes, revise.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Being Too Generic

Avoid phrases like “your strong program in law.” What specifically appeals to you?

❌ Copy-Pasting Across Schools

Tailor every essay. Admissions teams can spot a template instantly.

❌ Repeating Your Resume or Personal Statement

Bring new insights. Focus on fit.

❌ Listing Without Connection

Don’t list clinics and professors without saying why they matter to you.

Dos and Don’ts of a Great “Why This Law School?” Essay

“Why This Law School?” Essay Samples

Sample #1: Why Northwestern Pritzker School of Law?

I’ve always been drawn to law as a tool for balancing power—especially for marginalized communities. My interest in technology and equity intersected when I interned at a legal tech startup that created resources for tenants facing eviction. At Northwestern, I see the perfect space to grow that interest through the Center on Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. The JD-Entrepreneurship Lab, in particular, stands out as a way to combine my legal education with practical startup experience.

Beyond academics, I value Northwestern’s emphasis on collaboration and public service. I was impressed by the student-led Prison Education Program and the school’s commitment to real-world justice. Having co-founded a tutoring program at my undergrad, I’m eager to contribute to a law school community that values initiative and impact.

Law school is where I want to deepen my commitment to justice—and Northwestern is where I see that journey taking shape.

Why This Essay Works:

• Connects law school resources to personal experience
• Specific mention of programs and initiatives
• Highlights both what they will gain and give

Sample #2: Why NYU School of Law?

As a future human rights lawyer, I’m drawn to NYU’s commitment to global justice. The opportunity to participate in the Center for Human Rights and Global Justice and the International Law and Human Rights Clinic aligns perfectly with my experience working with refugees through Amnesty International. I want to learn in an environment that challenges me to think globally while acting locally—and NYU offers that balance.

I’m especially excited by NYU’s Root-Tilden-Kern Public Interest Scholarship, which reflects the school’s strong support of service-minded students. I’ve dedicated the past two years to working with an anti-displacement nonprofit in Chicago, and I plan to continue public service work while building my legal skills.

NYU’s vibrant, justice-oriented culture matches my passion and purpose. I see myself thriving in its community, contributing to student initiatives, and working toward a legal career that centers vulnerable populations.

Why This Essay Works:

• Focuses on fit with mission, not just academics
• Strong alignment with values and scholarship
• Personal story drives every school reference

Sample #3: Why UC Berkeley School of Law?

Berkeley Law stands out to me for its intersectional approach to social justice. With a background in disability advocacy, I’ve seen firsthand how the law can both empower and marginalize. I’m eager to explore these themes further through the Thelton E. Henderson Center for Social Justice.

What draws me to Berkeley is not just the curriculum, but the community. I’m particularly interested in the Students for Economic and Environmental Justice organization and the chance to engage with faculty working at the forefront of racial equity and climate law. I also appreciate Berkeley’s ungraded 1L system, which I believe fosters collaboration and deep learning.

To me, Berkeley is more than a top law school—it’s a place where I can transform advocacy into action and find a like-minded community of changemakers.

Why This Essay Works:

• Ties personal mission to school culture
• Names specific organizations, faculty focus, and school policies
• Emphasizes mutual growth and contribution

Final Tips to Get You Started

• Make a research chart for each school to avoid overlap
• Avoid recycling essays unless you’re willing to customize them
• Outline your goals first and match them to the school's features
• Ask someone to review for clarity and specificity
• Keep it short but powerful

FAQs

To your success,

Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting