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In this episode, Hadiyah Cummings and Bernie Chimner discuss the LSAT, its significance in the law school application process, and effective strategies for preparation. They emphasize that the LSAT tests skills rather than knowledge, highlighting the importance of understanding its structure and components. The conversation covers initial steps for LSAT preparation, the significance of practice tests, and the various study methods available, encouraging listeners to find what works best for them.

The episode aims to demystify the LSAT and provide actionable advice for prospective law students. In this conversation, Bernadette Chimner and Hadiyah Cummings discuss effective strategies for preparing for the LSAT, emphasizing the importance of understanding personal learning styles, the value of structured classes over self-study, and the need to identify red flags in LSAT prep resources. They also explore effective study techniques, including the balance between practice tests and drilling, and the significance of reviewing mistakes to improve performance. The discussion highlights that LSAT preparation is a learnable process that requires effort and commitment, ultimately leading to success in achieving desired scores.Chapters

00:00 Understanding the LSAT: An Overview

02:48 Breaking Down the LSAT Sections

05:24 Strategies for LSAT Success

08:26 Navigating LSAT Resources and Tools

11:05 Preparing for the LSAT: First Steps

13:50 Study Strategies and Time Commitment

31:16 The Skills Required for LSAT Success

34:12 The Importance of Early and Consistent Study

37:33 Weekly Study Commitments and Strategies

43:22 Choosing the Right Study Format

51:50 Red Flags in LSAT Prep Resources

01:05:12 Evaluating Tutoring Services

01:11:42 Maximizing LSAT Preparation Strategies

01:13:31 Balancing Drilling and Practice Tests

01:21:09 The Pitfalls of Using AI for LSAT Prep

01:32:45 Embracing the Learning Journey

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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

In this episode of the Becoming LawyHer podcast, host Hadiyah dives into the intricacies of numbers in law school admissions with Mike Spivey, Founder and CEO of Spivey Consulting. Discover how to strategically approach your application, from addressing a low GPA or LSAT score to building strong relationships with recommenders. Whether you're applying straight out of undergrad or returning to law after years in another field, this episode offers practical tools and insights to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. Tune in to learn how to tell your story authentically and compellingly.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating the Law School Application Process

01:50 Understanding GPA and LSAT Medians

10:14 Addressing Low GPAs and LSAT Scores

20:59 The Impact of Advanced Degrees on Applications

24:52 Understanding LSAT Scores and Addenda

26:10 The Importance of Test Preparation

28:17 Disclosing Learning Disabilities in Applications

31:10 Timing Your Law School Application

32:03 K through JD Applicants: Strategies for Success

38:42 Leveraging Work Experience for Older Applicants

42:46 The Value of Soft Factors in Applications

47:40 Leveraging Non-Legal Experience in Applications

51:12 Shaping Legal Aspirations Through Experience

52:48 The Importance of Meaningful Recommendations

54:56 Navigating Relationships with Admissions Officers

57:21 Timing Your Application: Early vs. Strong

01:09:34 Crafting an Authentic Narrative for Applications

Resources Mentioned

• Mike Spivey LinkedIn

• Mike Spivey Blog

• LSAC Accommodations

• Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff

• LSAC Forums

In this episode of the Becoming LawyHer, host Hadiyah Cummings sits down with Tracy L. Simmons, Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs at Howard University School of Law. They delve into the intricacies of law school applications, emphasizing the importance of strategic storytelling in resumes and recommendation letters. Dean Simmons also shares insights on what it means for candidates to find the best fit, the value of an HBCU legal education, and offers encouragement to applicants who may doubt their potential. Tune in for invaluable advice on navigating the path to law school success!

Show notes

Reading mentioned, Law School As A White Space: Microsoft Word - Capers_MLR.docx

00:00 Introduction to Law School Applications

02:52 The Importance of a Cohesive Application

05:49 Strategic Storytelling in Applications

08:44 Common Mistakes in Standing Out

11:49 The Role of Resumes in Law School Applications

14:51 Understanding Letters of Recommendation

28:02 The Importance of Strategic Recommendations

30:40 Navigating Academic vs. Professional Letters

33:38 Understanding Holistic Admissions at Howard

37:21 Scholarship Insights and Timing

40:05 The Value of an HBCU Legal Education

47:40 Choosing Between HBCU and PWI: Key Considerations

52:19 Final Words of Encouragement for Applicants

With the end of affirmative action, the rules have changed—but your story still matters. A top law school dean helps us navigate how to show up authentically in optional essays, interviews, and every space in between.00:00 Introduction to Harvard Law Admissions

02:52 Understanding the Statement of Purpose vs. Statement of Perspective

05:24 Crafting Authentic Essays: The Importance of Personal Narrative

08:06 Navigating Uncertainty in Career Goals

10:42 The Role of Identity in Law School Applications

13:24 Holistic Admissions: A Closer Look at Harvard's Process

16:02 The Impact of AI on Admissions

18:53 Optional Essays: Understanding Their Value

21:28 Final Thoughts and Advice for Applicants

32:35 Understanding the Application Review Process

35:05 The Importance of Enthusiasm in Interviews

42:27 Balancing Preparation and Authenticity in Interviews

48:59 Creating a Cohesive Narrative in Applications

54:33 Embracing Your Unique Story

58:04 Advice for Aspiring Law Students

Resources mentioned:

• Navigating Law School Admissions with Miriam & Kristi

In this enlightening episode of the Becoming LawyHer podcast, we sit down with Dean Miriam Ingber of Yale Law School to unravel the myths surrounding law school admissions. From the misconceptions about GPA and LSAT scores to the real qualities that top law schools seek in applicants, Dean Ingber provides candid insights and advice. Whether you're an aspiring law student or simply curious about the admissions process, this episode offers valuable perspectives that challenge the status quo. Tune in to discover what truly matters in crafting a successful law school application.

To the view the transcript, please click here.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Myth Busting in Law School Admissions

01:57 Understanding Law School Admissions Criteria

06:31 Debunking the 'Unicorn' Applicant Myth

10:30 The Role of Undergraduate Institution Prestige

14:29 Navigating the LSAT and Retake Strategies

20:11 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Law School Applications

21:30 The Importance of Authenticity in Admissions

25:22 Addressing Character and Fitness Issues

27:56 Navigating Sensitive Topics in Applications

33:47 Finding Your Narrative in Law School Applications

40:16 Encouragement for Aspiring Law Students

Takeaways

You don't need to have perfect scores to get into law school.

Admissions look at the whole application, not just numbers.

Being a 'splitter' is not a term used in admissions.

Exceptional applicants are rare; most are normal people.

Undergraduate prestige matters, but it's not everything.

LSAT score fluctuations can be viewed positively.

Political views do not disqualify applicants if they can engage respectfully.

Character and fitness issues are often minor and manageable.

Trauma can be discussed in applications if it connects to motivation.

Authenticity is key; applicants should be true to themselves.

Resources Mentioned

• Access to Law School Program at Yale Law School

• Navigating Law School Admissions with Miriam & Kristi

• LawyHer Personal Statement Consultation Services

• LawyHer Instagram

• Yale Law School Launchpad Scholars

In this very first episode of Becoming LawyHer, Hadiyah Cummings—first-gen lawyer, civil rights advocate, and founder of LawyHer—gets personal. Before the expert interviews and deep-dive strategy sessions, she’s sharing her own story: how she applied to law school at 20 years old, graduated college with a 4.0, scored a 163 on the LSAT, and still got accepted to some of the top law schools in the country—including Yale.

But this episode isn’t about numbers. It’s about strategy, identity, and intention. You’ll hear how Hadiyah turned her application into a cohesive narrative where every piece—from her resume to her personal statement—worked together to tell a compelling story. That approach became the foundation of LawyHer’s signature strategy: becoming the main character of your law school application.

This episode sets the tone for everything to come: honesty, practical gems, and unapologetic authenticity. If you’ve ever doubted whether you belong in this profession, this one’s for you