So, you have gotten a response other than, “yes, we would love to have you!” from a law school. While this can feel like a heartbreak, it does not mean you should give up. If you are waitlisted or deferred, it could be in your best interest to write what is referred to as a letter of continued interest (“LOCI”). The purpose of such a letter is pretty much covered by the name. You are writing to a law school to demonstrate that you are very interested in attending and why you are an excellent fit. I will share some tips to help you write your best LOCI:
1. Don’t wait too long: Try to submit your LOCI within two weeks of receiving the initial deferral/waitlist decision. LOCIs are not typically longer than a page so two weeks should be more than enough time to draft it.
2. Start with a reminder of where you are in the application process. Within the first paragraph of your LOCI, drop a line reminding the admissions counselor at what stage you are in the admissions process. Keep a professional and gracious tone. “I would like to thank you again for your consideration of my application. I am currently waitlisted at XYZ Law School.”
3. Include a clear, direct statement communicating your interest in the particular law school. Would you go there if accepted? Is this school your top choice? In conveying your desire to attend this school, be truthful. Some admissions counselors read hundreds (maybe even thousands) of LOCIs and will sniff out an exaggeration. Don’t make any promises you can’t keep later.
4. Provide Relevant Updates to your Application: If you haven’t already, provide any changes to your application that could improve your chances of admission. For example, did you take the LSAT again and receive a higher score? Has your GPA gone up? Have you recently made an impressive contribution at work or at any organization with which you are involved?
5. Do some research on the school: To highlight your interest, look into the school. Are there notable professors you would like to take, clinics or journals in which you would participate? Provide detail as to exactly why you would like to participate in those courses or programs. For example, if you want to be a corporate attorney, it makes sense that you would be attracted to a particular school for their renowned securities law clinic.
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