Law Personal Statement

Getting The Structure Right
Now you have completed the questionnaire, the next process is to review the results and get your structure right. It is important to remember that this is a short personal statement, not an autobiography. Focus on your results from the questionnaire, and be particular about each element that you wish to include. If you are lacking practical experience, demonstrate your interest and ability to study your topic. Below is our recommended structure.

Introduction
Giving your personal statement a strong opening will engage the reader's attention from the outset. Common mistakes include the use of clichéd and overused sentences in the introduction. For example, you should avoid starting your sentence with the following:

" I have always wanted to study Law."
" Law is my calling."
" My passion has always been for Law."

Below is an example of a powerful introduction:

As I stepped up to the platform to complete the cross-examination, a softball-sized knot took shape in my stomach. I prayed that my vocal cords would not fail me. Preparing to question the prosecution's key witness, I knew that my performance would determine whether my team left the courtroom with the smiles of victors or the furrowed brows of the defeated. With the weight of the team resting directly on my shoulders, I began my interrogation. Immediately, the opposing barrister shot me the most hostile glance I had ever encountered. I want to read the whole statement.

The Body
People often forget about the body of the personal statement. It is important to remember that your personal statement must proceed in a logical succession from one thought to the next. The body should lead in a convincing way from the introduction to conclusion. The paragraphing can be used as a planning tool. The beginning of each paragraph should introduce the topic and the paragraph must end in a "hook" to the next paragraph. Whenever possible give the first sentence an interesting angle.

Each paragraph should follow this general structure.
Make sure your sentence is supported by actions.
1. Specific detail (action that supports the point).
2. Specific detail (action that supports the point).
3. Specific detail (action that supports the point).

The Conclusion
Conclude the personal statement with an attention-grabbing sentence. You may find it helpful to reflect on your main accomplishments and experience. The main point of the conclusion is to underline your desire to study. Read the sample conclusion below.

“More important than the award, however, was the realisation that I had found my future career in a courtroom. This time, however, the cases will be real.”.
Having reached the conclusion, admissions officers need to feel that they know more about you than when they started.

Remember to keep the discussion personal. How much you revel about yourself is up to you. Many students fall into the trap of keeping the reader at arms length.

Next: Draft Structure Outline.

Note: This guide is not intended to replace the advice of tutors, admissions officers, or teachers; Get Into Uni simply provides advice and exercises to help you write a compelling personal statement.