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Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 12/20/23

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Are you ready to write your Berkeley application essay? Let’s review essential tips and examples to help you write a standout piece.

When applying to Berkeley Law, one of the most crucial components of your application is the optional essay. This essay allows you to express your genuine interest in the school and explain why you are a perfect fit. 

This comprehensive guide will delve into strategies for crafting a compelling "Why Berkeley Law?" essay, explore examples of successful essays, and address frequently asked questions.

Writing the "Why Berkeley Law?" Essay

Students must submit a personal statement with four double-spaced pages in 11-point font as part of the Berkeley Law application process. In this three-page essay, you must set yourself apart from the competition.

Berkeley mentions that this essay is the perfect opportunity to share your story and why you’re applying to their school. Your goal is to share ideas you believe are vital to your character.

While you don’t have to address this specific question in your personal statement, Berkeley strongly encourages students to answer this prompt:

“Tell us more about your interest in Berkeley Law. What makes our school a good fit for you in terms of academic interests, programmatic offerings, and learning environment?” 

Let's explore how you can respond to this well.

Discover What Sets Berkeley Law Apart

Berkeley Law has a rich history and a lot to offer prospective students. When tackling this extra essay, explore the school's traditions, the variety of programs it offers, and the unique qualities that align with your academic goals. 

Reflect on Academic Goals

Now, take a moment to think about your academic goals, including what you want to achieve in the short term and the long term. Think about the specific academic interests that have drawn you to Berkeley Law. Explore how the school's educational offerings can help you reach these goals.

Are there specific courses, areas of study, or research chances that align with your interests? Make sure to express these connections clearly in your essay to demonstrate how well your academic aspirations match Berkeley Law.

Forge a Regional Connection

The Bay Area is a thriving legal hub, but breaking into it can be challenging without prior connections. If you want to practice law in California, don't mention that in your essay. Take it further by aligning yourself with a specific Bay Area population or legal specialization, such as tech law.

Embrace Diversity and Activism

Berkeley prides itself on its diversity and rich tradition of activism, like the historic Free Speech Movement. If you want to stand out, incorporate this culture into your essay to show your appreciation for a vibrant and inclusive campus. 

Though this isn’t necessarily a diversity essay, it is a good idea to highlight any personal experiences or values that demonstrate your commitment to diversity and social justice. Whether it's through your own background, extracurricular activities, or future aspirations make it clear that you'll actively contribute to and benefit from Berkeley's diverse community.

Highlight Leadership and Initiative

Berkeley values students who take the lead and make a positive impact. Share examples of your leadership roles in school, work, or community organizations. Highlight instances where you took the initiative to solve problems or create positive change. Demonstrating your potential to contribute actively to the Berkeley community will strengthen your essay.

Connect Your Past Experiences to Future Goals

Your essay should tell a story of your academic and personal journey, culminating in your desire to attend Berkeley. Explain how your past experiences have shaped your ambitions and why Berkeley is the ideal place to continue your growth. Discuss specific resources or opportunities that will help you achieve your long-term goals.

Be Authentic and Reflective

Lastly, be yourself in your essay. Berkeley seeks authentic individuals who can contribute to their diverse and intellectually vibrant community. 

Share your true passions, values, and aspirations. Reflect on your experiences and insights, and don't be afraid to acknowledge your challenges or setbacks. A genuine, thoughtful essay will make a lasting impression.

Examples of Successful “Why Berkeley Law” Essay

In this next part, let's dive into “Why Berkeley?” law essay examples that really hit the mark, demonstrating the applicants' genuine alignment with the school's ethos, academic programs, and dedication to public interest law. 

While Berkeley doesn’t require a separate “Why Berkeley?” essay, it does expect you to thoughtfully address this prompt within your personal statement. The examples below do just that and would be seamlessly integrated into a personal statement.

Example Essay #1

“As an aspiring public interest attorney, Berkeley Law's commitment to social justice and its extensive programmatic offerings make it the ideal institution for me. From my research, it's clear that Berkeley Law's values align perfectly with my passion for advocating for marginalized communities. The Public Interest Scholars Program, in particular, stands out as an opportunity to further my commitment to public service.

Berkeley Law's wide array of clinics and centers, such as the Policy Advocacy Clinic and the International Human Rights Law Clinic, strongly resonates with my academic interests. These hands-on experiences will allow me to apply legal theory to real-world situations, honing my skills while making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. Additionally, the Pro Bono Program's emphasis on community service deeply aligns with my commitment to giving back.

The vibrant and inclusive learning environment at Berkeley Law is another compelling reason for my interest. The diverse student body and faculty create a dynamic atmosphere where I can learn from different perspectives and foster a global understanding of legal issues. The Berkeley Law community's dedication to activism and the Free Speech Movement is particularly appealing, as it mirrors my own desire to be a catalyst for change and contribute to a more just society.

‍In my pursuit of a legal career focused on public interest, Berkeley Law's dedication to fostering social justice and providing extensive resources for students aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I am eager to engage with the Berkeley Law community, contribute to its legacy of activism, and take full advantage of the opportunities it offers to develop into an effective public interest attorney.”

Why This Essay Was Successful

This essay succeeded because it showed that the applicant's goals match what Berkeley Law offers. The writer clearly expressed their passion for public interest law and mentioned specific programs and opportunities at the school that interested them. 

They also discussed how Berkeley Law's diverse community and commitment to activism aligned with their values. Overall, the essay made a strong case for why the applicant would be a good fit for Berkeley Law.

Example Essay #2

“Berkeley Law is the epitome of my academic and professional aspirations as a future public interest attorney. Its exceptional academic offerings, programmatic diversity, and commitment to social justice have convinced me that this is where I belong.

My academic interests lie in environmental justice and sustainable development. Berkeley Law's esteemed Environmental Law Program, renowned for its interdisciplinary approach and impactful research, perfectly aligns with my goals. I am eager to engage with faculty members such as Professor [Faculty Name], whose work on environmental justice has been a constant source of inspiration for me.

Furthermore, the Public Interest Scholars Program is the embodiment of my career aspirations. It offers unparalleled resources and mentorship opportunities that will not only help me refine my legal skills but also empower me to make a meaningful difference in disadvantaged communities. The program's emphasis on experiential learning through clinics and community engagement resonates deeply with my commitment to public service.

The Berkeley Law community's dedication to diversity and activism is also a significant draw for me. Having been an advocate for social justice throughout my undergraduate years, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to Berkeley's legacy of activism and making a positive impact on pressing societal issues.

In conclusion, Berkeley Law's academic excellence, programmatic offerings, and unwavering commitment to social justice make it the perfect fit for my academic and career goals. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the Berkeley Law community, where I can harness my passion for public interest law to effect change and promote justice for marginalized communities.”

Why This Essay Was Successful

This essay succeeds because it shows a strong match between the applicant's goals and Berkeley Law. They express their interest in environmental justice and sustainable development and explain how Berkeley Law's programs align with these goals. 

The essay also mentions a faculty member who inspires them, demonstrating their genuine interest in the school. Additionally, the writer emphasizes their commitment to hands-on learning and public service, which fits well with Berkeley Law's offerings. 

Finally, they express their excitement about contributing to the school's diversity and activism, making a strong case for why they are a good fit for Berkeley Law.

FAQs

Navigating the Berkeley Law application process can be complex, but our FAQ section is here to provide you with clear and concise answers to your most pressing questions.

1. What Makes Berkeley Law School Unique?

Berkeley Law stands out for its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and innovation. It offers diverse courses, renowned faculty, and numerous clinics and centers focused on various legal fields.

2. What Is the Mission Statement of Berkeley Law?

Berkeley Law's mission is to advance the University of California's teaching, research, and service mission through three key areas:

1. Teaching: The law school provides students with first-class training in legal theory, doctrine, and practice; exposure to the political, social, and economic forces that shape the law; and opportunities for client service.
2. Research: The school supports faculty members who are leaders in their fields of scholarly inquiry, working to expand legal and interdisciplinary thought while engaging students in rigorous academic work.
3. Service: Berkeley Law tackles important and challenging problems facing society, using its excellence in teaching and research to improve government, business, and the world.

A distinctive aspect of Berkeley Law's public mission includes a commitment to access, affordability, and career choice for diverse students from all communities.

3. What Is the Optional Essay for Berkeley Law?

Berkeley Law provides 10 optional essay prompts that allow applicants to address any aspects of their application they wish to clarify or expand upon:

• “Setting aside all things academic, what interests you about Berkeley?”
• “Describe a recent time when you changed your mind about something.”
• “If law school was not an option, what would you do instead and why?”
• “When have you demonstrated leadership quietly?” 
• “Aside from being capable and smart, what else will you contribute to the classroom or community?”
• “Fast forward several years – it is your law school graduation. Who are you scanning the audience to find first, and why?”
• “When is a time when you defied or exceeded the expectations someone else had of you?” 
• “Describe a time when you made a difference, or a place where you had an impact, that does NOT appear on your resume.”
• “What’s the last new thing that you tried? How did it go?” 
• “We all make mistakes. When was the last time you made a mistake, and what was the outcome of that realization?”

While not required, it can be a valuable opportunity to provide context if needed.

Conclusion

Writing the Berkeley personal statement requires thoughtful reflection and a deep understanding of what makes the school unique. By following the strategies outlined in this guide and studying successful examples, you can craft an essay that impresses the admissions committee and conveys your genuine enthusiasm for joining the Berkeley Law community. 

Remember to be specific, passionate, and authentic in your writing, and best of luck with your application!