Optional Essays: Effective Strategies for Every Law Applicant

I grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina, and earned my degrees in French and Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I went on to pursue my Juris Doctor (JD) at Duke University School of Law — an experience that deepened my love for the study of law. While I briefly worked in the legal field, I quickly realized that what truly inspired me wasn’t practicing law — it was helping others find their path through education. That realization led me to pivot into the field of international higher education, where I discovered my passion for mentoring students through the admissions process. For over 15 years, I’ve worked in university admissions at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. As a former admissions officer, I’ve reviewed hundreds of applications from students around the world. My experience includes serving as the Assistant Director of Recruitment and Admissions at the University of Chicago Booth Executive MBA program, where I gained firsthand insight into what top-tier programs look for in standout candidates. I spent over a decade living in Hong Kong, where I worked with both local and international students on applications to law school, MBA, Master’s, and undergraduate programs. Now based back in Raleigh, I continue to support students worldwide as they pursue their academic and professional goals. Whether you're applying to T14 law schools or exploring a specialized legal program, I bring a unique blend of legal training, admissions experience, and global perspective to help you craft a compelling, authentic application.