#55 - Law School Chat Forums - Are They Useful?
Channel: Apply Yourself: The Advancement Spot
Date: 07/06/2023

Are Law School and Other Chat Forums Useful?
We're doing something different this episode - I share a segment from one of our group coaching calls in The Success Society, our higher-level coaching community where we discuss all things outside of the application. This is my response to a discussion about law school forums and how this brought up feelings of insecurity for one of our members about their applications.  We have to be mindful when engaging with public, anonymous forums - they often promote a competition-based, scarcity mindset and falling down the rabbit hole can hinder our advancement and success. 

The Importance of Focusing On You, Not "the Competition"
I unpack law school forums and the ways they actually hinder our advancement based on my experience as a student who has gone through these processes, a professor for over a decade, and an admissions committee member at all levels. Here are some key takeaways: 

There's more to life than the application - it's about what we do to manage stress and pressure that lead us to advancement.
These forums are not legitimate sources of information for admissions committees for three reasons: 1- People on forums are anonymous and don't always tell the truth; they may be spreading misinformation to make others feel insecure. 2 - There's no fact checking on these forums and no way to ensure the accuracy of information. 3 - Forums are part of a much bigger issue - they promote competition, substance use, and insecurity among students and professionals.
Don't feed into the trap of online forums to seek external validation or support. Instead, focus on you, and spend your time and energy on the things and people that matter to you. 
Be careful of the people you surround yourself with. Don't engage in competitive behaviour because it's the “cool” thing to do.
People are getting in regardless of scores, grades, or experiences; it's about the written application materials and showcasing yourself. Tune in for some behind the scenes on admissions committees! 
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Connect with Adrienne!
Want to chat more about the impacts of law school forums and connect with us at Apply Yourself: The Advancement Spot? Email us at hello@applyyourselfglobal.com or email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. Also, DM us on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal -  Let us know if you have any questions about our non-competition based strategy!   

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