Lateapplicant09 (2022-2023)

Nothing too special: some honor societies, minor involvement in clubs, etc.

My job is cool, but not particularly unique.

I had by most standards a very difficult major, but my GPA had a slight downward trend.

Two very good LORs. I knew both people (1 professor, 1 boss) very well.

My PS was one of the better ones I've seen.

Withdrew from Penn, NU, Cornell. Never heard from Chicago (?!)

Will be attending Columbia.

I'm not sure if anyone will ever look at this, but I thought I would write some thoughts about my cycle as a guide for next year's applicants. I'll probably never go on this site again, so don't try to post any questions.

1) Applying Late: This does not seem to be as big a deal as people claim. I don't think applying earlier would have made Harvard accessible with my numbers, nor would it have avoided the YP at UVA ot GULC. With that said, it may help with getting more money, as my scholarship amounts appear smaller than those with similar stats. Also, pyschologically I'm sure it's much better to have this all over with by New Years. However, do not take the LSAT earlier than you feel comfortable just so that you can be an early applicant. I'd much prefer to have a 172 and submit in January than a 170 (or 171) and submit in November.

2) YP: It definitely happens, but it's pretty benign. Both UVA and GULC essentially said that I would be accepted if I indicated my continued interest. GULC even called the list I was on the "Special Priority List" or something along those lines.

3) LORs: Keep on top of your recs!!! The time between submission and completion of my apps is unusually long because one of my LORs didn't get submitted until late January.

4) Misspellings, Grammatical Mistakes, etc. : These don't matter. I had several.

5) Columbia vs. NYU: This was my main decision, and it probably will be for many of you as well. When I tried to compare them logically I didn't really get anywhere. They are quite similar with respect to their programs. Furthermore, unless you're going to meet 40 students from each your sample size is probably too small to infer anything about the student bodies. I flipped a coin, and then realized that I hoped the coin would pick Columbia. Not too original, but surprisingly effective.

Final thought for 2009-2010 applicants: You guys are all screwed. This next cycle is going to be a bitch. But, seriously, just relax. My main regret about this process is the amount of time I spent worrying about it. Have fun, and try to maintain perspective. I know that's easier said than done, but don't say I didn't warn you.

I'm out.