Shane D. Cooper
Shane D. Cooper Cornell Law School
Law School Admissions Ask the Admissions Dean Anything
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Overview AI Webinar Summary
Law School Admissions: Ask the Admissions Dean Anything

Join Senior Associate Dean Shane Cooper for an open and engaging conversation designed to demystify the law school admissions process.

Submit your questions early here!

Whether you're just beginning your journey or preparing to submit your application, this interactive session is your chance to ask anything about getting into law school.

Building on the success of our previous seminar, 'How to Stand Out and Get In,' this webinar offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from an admissions dean.

Topics That May Be Discussed:

  • What admissions committees look for in applicants
  • How to craft a compelling personal statement
  • Navigating letters of recommendation and who to ask
  • The role of LSAT/GRE scores in holistic review
  • How to address weaknesses in your application
  • Financial aid insights and scholarship strategies
  • Pros and cons to the Early Decision application process
  • Timing of applications in light of rolling admissions
  • Common myths and misconceptions about law school admissions
  • What makes an applicant memorable — and what doesn’t
Topics covered include:
Law Students Law Practice Professional Development
Agenda:

Live Q&A with Dean Cooper, moderated by Justia. Attendees are encouraged to submit questions in advance or ask them live during the session.

Duration of this webinar: 60 minutes
Originally broadcast: November 6, 2025 10:00 AM PT
Webinar Highlights

This webinar is divided into section summaries, which you can scan for key points and then dive into the sections that interest you the most.

Introduction
Shane D. Cooper, the speaker, is introduced as the Senior Associate Dean for Admissions at Cornell Law School. Shane clarifies that his advice is personal and not representative of Cornell Law School's official stance. He invites questions about law school admissions, emphasizing the session as a free resource for prospective law students. Shane notes that the admissions process can vary and encourages attendees to consider different perspectives.
Law School Admissions Process
Shane explains that law school applications require various pieces of information, including test scores and transcripts. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with the Law School Admissions Council for application activities. The LSAT is the most common entrance exam, but some schools accept the GRE or other tests. Shane advises focusing on preparing for entrance exams as a crucial step in the application process. Law schools also require personal statements, resumes, and letters of recommendation. He highlights the importance of resilience, maturity, and emotional intelligence in applicants. Shane stresses the need for a holistic approach to the application, considering both academic and personal qualities.
Evaluating Test Scores and GPA
Shane discusses the importance of LSAT scores compared to GPA and other application components. He acknowledges the LSAT as a reliable predictor of law school success, although not the sole factor. Shane explains that high test scores do not guarantee admission, since applications are evaluated holistically. He describes how GRE scores are evaluated and compared to LSAT scores using conversion tools. Shane advises checking the ABA Standard 509 report for information on GRE acceptance at law schools. He discusses the subjectivity in evaluating multiple LSAT scores and the importance of preparation. Shane encourages older applicants, emphasizing the value of diverse life experiences in law school.
Addenda and Personal Statements
Shane advises on addressing low GPAs in applications by taking responsibility and explaining circumstances. He cautions against using family success stories to justify poor LSAT scores, focusing on individual performance. Shane discusses the importance of preparation for the LSAT and the role of other application components. He emphasizes the need for authenticity in personal statements, even when discussing mistakes. Shane suggests focusing on growth and learning from mistakes to create compelling personal statements. He advises on aligning personal statements with goals and values related to law school. Shane warns against using AI for personal statements, stressing the importance of genuine self-representation.
Character and Fitness Disclosures
Shane explains the importance of character and fitness disclosures in law school applications. He emphasizes the duty of candor and the need for accurate self-disclosure in applications. Shane advises applicants to carefully read and respond to each school's specific disclosure questions. He reassures that most disclosures are not deal breakers, but failing to disclose can be problematic. Shane discusses residency requirements for in-state tuition and the availability of online and hybrid programs. He highlights the growing options for online and hybrid JD programs, expanding access for working professionals.
Choosing Recommenders and Application Tips
Shane provides guidance on choosing recommenders, emphasizing the value of academic and professional references. He advises asking recommenders early and providing them with relevant information to support their letters. Shane suggests avoiding recommendations from family or famous figures unless they know the applicant well. He recommends ensuring recommendations are generic and applicable to multiple law schools. Shane advises on gentle follow-up with recommenders to ensure timely submission of letters. He highlights the importance of strong, personalized recommendations in the application process. Shane concludes by encouraging applicants to utilize available resources and prepare thoroughly for law school.

Please note this AI-generated summary provides a general overview of the webinar but may not capture all details, nuances, or the exact words of the speaker. For complete accuracy, please refer to the original webinar recording.

Speaker
Shane D. Cooper
Shane D. Cooper Senior Associate Dean of Admissions, Financial Aid and Student Services
Cornell Law School

Shane Cooper JD ‘03 is the Senior Associate Dean for Admissions, Financial Aid and Student Services. In this role, he leads JD recruitment efforts and efforts to retain and support the current student body. He also provides strategic direction to the Dean of Students staff on all aspects of counseling and student case management, serves as the primary point of contact for the faculty Administrative Committee, and is the officer of record for character and fitness certification to bar authorities. He previously served as Associate Dean for Administration and Enrollment at the University of New Hampshire School of Law, overseeing admissions, enrollment management, and administrative activities. Read More ›

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