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About the EpisodeIf you’ve ever stared at a blank page wondering how to make your law school personal statement stand out, this episode is for you. Dean Kat Schroll, Dean of Admissions at the University of Miami School of Law, has read thousands of personal statements and knows exactly what catches an admissions officer’s eye—and what makes them lose interest. In our conversation, she shares the biggest mistakes applicants make, how to tell your story in a way that feels both authentic and compelling, and why you don’t need an ‘extraordinary’ life event to write an extraordinary essay. Whether you’re just starting your draft or putting on the final touches, this insider perspective will help you approach the process with more confidence, clarity, and strategy.

00:00 Introduction to Law School Admissions Insights

02:51 The Importance of Personal Statements

05:04 Brainstorming and Authenticity in Personal Statements

07:55 Crafting Compelling Narratives

10:42 Addressing Challenges and Setbacks

13:40 Connecting Personal Experiences to Law

16:05 Effective Storytelling Techniques

19:09 Structure and Flow of Personal Statements

21:49 Common Pitfalls in Personal Statements

24:10 Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Reflection

38:02 Crafting the Perfect Personal Statement

39:48 The Importance of Reflection in Writing

43:18 Finding Your Unique Voice and Theme

44:30 Adhering to Application Guidelines

47:05 Common Mistakes in Personal Statements

52:45 The Role of Tone and Structure

56:50 Editing for Clarity and Impact

01:03:56 Navigating the UMiami Law School Community

01:10:04 Scholarship Opportunities and Decisions

01:11:37 Final Words of Encouragement