Becoming LawyHer

Everybody wants to talk about getting into law school.Not enough people talk about how to actually afford it.This episode of the Becoming LawyHer Podcast might be one of the most important we’ve done. I’m joined by Teria Thornton from AccessLex to break down how law school funding really works and what the recent federal loan changes mean for future lawyers.If you’ve ever thought“I want to be a lawyer, but I don’t know how I could pay for law school”this is your episode.We cover:00:00 Why this conversation matters01:45 What AccessLex is and how they help students04:20 The “pie chart” of law school financial aid07:40 Scholarships, grants, work study, and loans explained10:30 Biggest myth: “I can’t afford law school”13:15 Tuition vs cost of attendance16:30 Can you work during law school?20:10 Flexible student jobs that actually work22:40 Merit-based vs need-based scholarships26:10 Why full tuition need-based aid is rare28:30 HBCU law schools and funding differences31:15 Federal loan changes (BBB) explained simply35:20 Annual borrowing limits + lifetime caps38:10 What this means for current law students41:00 Public interest careers, PSLF, and repayment changes44:45 If federal loans aren’t enough, what now?47:10 Private loans, credit scores, and real barriers50:20 Scholarships and tools AccessLex offers53:00 Feeling overwhelmed? Think GPS reroute55:00 Resources to use nextThe biggest takeaway: the road may look different, but there are still paths forward. There are tools, scholarships, and people whose entire job is to help you figure this out.Save this. Send it to someone who is pre-law. Rewatch in pieces if you need to. This episode can genuinely change how you create your future in law!🎧 Listen now and start building your plan.

To learn more about Griffon Prep's resources: ⁠Griffon Prep⁠In this episode, Hadiyah Cummings and Bernie Chimner discuss the LSAT, its significance in the law school application process, and effective strategies for preparation. They emphasize that the LSAT tests skills rather than knowledge, highlighting the importance of understanding its structure and components. The conversation covers initial steps for LSAT preparation, the significance of practice tests, and the various study methods available, encouraging listeners to find what works best for them. The episode aims to demystify the LSAT and provide actionable advice for prospective law students. In this conversation, Bernadette Chimner and Hadiyah Cummings discuss effective strategies for preparing for the LSAT, emphasizing the importance of understanding personal learning styles, the value of structured classes over self-study, and the need to identify red flags in LSAT prep resources. They also explore effective study techniques, including the balance between practice tests and drilling, and the significance of reviewing mistakes to improve performance. The discussion highlights that LSAT preparation is a learnable process that requires effort and commitment, ultimately leading to success in achieving desired scores.Chapters00:00 Understanding the LSAT: An Overview02:48 Breaking Down the LSAT Sections05:24 Strategies for LSAT Success08:26 Navigating LSAT Resources and Tools11:05 Preparing for the LSAT: First Steps13:50 Study Strategies and Time Commitment31:16 The Skills Required for LSAT Success34:12 The Importance of Early and Consistent Study37:33 Weekly Study Commitments and Strategies43:22 Choosing the Right Study Format51:50 Red Flags in LSAT Prep Resources01:05:12 Evaluating Tutoring Services01:11:42 Maximizing LSAT Preparation Strategies01:13:31 Balancing Drilling and Practice Tests01:21:09 The Pitfalls of Using AI for LSAT Prep01:32:45 Embracing the Learning Journey

Ready to take your essay to the next level? 🎓 Book our Low-Cost Personal Statement Package for affordable, expert feedback with a 5-day turnaround.Want even deeper guidance—including a full breakdown of essay structures and strategies that admissions officers love? Grab our Personal Statement eBook and start crafting your strongest application today.About the EpisodeIf you’ve ever stared at a blank page wondering how to make your law school personal statement stand out, this episode is for you. Dean Kat Schroll, Dean of Admissions at the University of Miami School of Law, has read thousands of personal statements and knows exactly what catches an admissions officer’s eye—and what makes them lose interest. In our conversation, she shares the biggest mistakes applicants make, how to tell your story in a way that feels both authentic and compelling, and why you don’t need an ‘extraordinary’ life event to write an extraordinary essay. Whether you’re just starting your draft or putting on the final touches, this insider perspective will help you approach the process with more confidence, clarity, and strategy.00:00 Introduction to Law School Admissions Insights02:51 The Importance of Personal Statements05:04 Brainstorming and Authenticity in Personal Statements07:55 Crafting Compelling Narratives10:42 Addressing Challenges and Setbacks13:40 Connecting Personal Experiences to Law16:05 Effective Storytelling Techniques19:09 Structure and Flow of Personal Statements21:49 Common Pitfalls in Personal Statements24:10 Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Reflection38:02 Crafting the Perfect Personal Statement39:48 The Importance of Reflection in Writing43:18 Finding Your Unique Voice and Theme44:30 Adhering to Application Guidelines47:05 Common Mistakes in Personal Statements52:45 The Role of Tone and Structure56:50 Editing for Clarity and Impact01:03:56 Navigating the UMiami Law School Community01:10:04 Scholarship Opportunities and Decisions01:11:37 Final Words of Encouragement

In this episode of the Becoming LawyHer podcast, host Hadiyah dives into the intricacies of numbers in law school admissions  with Mike Spivey, Founder and CEO  of Spivey Consulting. Discover how to strategically approach your application, from addressing a low GPA or LSAT score to building strong relationships with recommenders. Whether you're applying straight out of undergrad or returning to law after years in another field, this episode offers practical tools and insights to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. Tune in to learn how to tell your story authentically and compellingly.Chapters00:00 Navigating the Law School Application Process01:50 Understanding GPA and LSAT Medians10:14 Addressing Low GPAs and LSAT Scores20:59 The Impact of Advanced Degrees on Applications24:52 Understanding LSAT Scores and Addenda26:10 The Importance of Test Preparation28:17 Disclosing Learning Disabilities in Applications31:10 Timing Your Law School Application32:03 K through JD Applicants: Strategies for Success38:42 Leveraging Work Experience for Older Applicants42:46 The Value of Soft Factors in Applications47:40 Leveraging Non-Legal Experience in Applications51:12 Shaping Legal Aspirations Through Experience52:48 The Importance of Meaningful Recommendations54:56 Navigating Relationships with Admissions Officers57:21 Timing Your Application: Early vs. Strong01:09:34 Crafting an Authentic Narrative for ApplicationsResources MentionedMike Spivey LinkedInMike Spivey BlogLSAC AccommodationsSelf-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin NeffLSAC Forums

In this episode of the Becoming LawyHer, host Hadiyah Cummings sits down with Tracy L. Simmons, Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs at Howard University School of Law. They delve into the intricacies of law school applications, emphasizing the importance of strategic storytelling in resumes and recommendation letters. Dean Simmons also shares insights on what it means for candidates to find the best fit, the value of an HBCU legal education, and offers encouragement to applicants who may doubt their potential. Tune in for invaluable advice on navigating the path to law school success!Show notesReading mentioned, Law School As A White Space: Microsoft Word - Capers_MLR.docx00:00 Introduction to Law School Applications02:52 The Importance of a Cohesive Application05:49 Strategic Storytelling in Applications08:44 Common Mistakes in Standing Out11:49 The Role of Resumes in Law School Applications14:51 Understanding Letters of Recommendation28:02 The Importance of Strategic Recommendations30:40 Navigating Academic vs. Professional Letters33:38 Understanding Holistic Admissions at Howard37:21 Scholarship Insights and Timing40:05 The Value of an HBCU Legal Education47:40 Choosing Between HBCU and PWI: Key Considerations52:19 Final Words of Encouragement for Applicants

With the end of affirmative action, the rules have changed—but your story still matters. A top law school dean helps us navigate how to show up authentically in optional essays, interviews, and every space in between.00:00 Introduction to Harvard Law Admissions02:52 Understanding the Statement of Purpose vs. Statement of Perspective05:24 Crafting Authentic Essays: The Importance of Personal Narrative08:06 Navigating Uncertainty in Career Goals10:42 The Role of Identity in Law School Applications13:24 Holistic Admissions: A Closer Look at Harvard's Process16:02 The Impact of AI on Admissions18:53 Optional Essays: Understanding Their Value21:28 Final Thoughts and Advice for Applicants32:35 Understanding the Application Review Process35:05 The Importance of Enthusiasm in Interviews42:27 Balancing Preparation and Authenticity in Interviews48:59 Creating a Cohesive Narrative in Applications54:33 Embracing Your Unique Story58:04 Advice for Aspiring Law StudentsResources mentioned:Navigating Law School Admissions with Miriam & Kristi

In this enlightening episode of the Becoming LawyHer podcast, we sit down with Dean Miriam Ingber of Yale Law School to unravel the myths surrounding law school admissions. From the misconceptions about GPA and LSAT scores to the real qualities that top law schools seek in applicants, Dean Ingber provides candid insights and advice. Whether you're an aspiring law student or simply curious about the admissions process, this episode offers valuable perspectives that challenge the status quo. Tune in to discover what truly matters in crafting a successful law school application.To the view the transcript, please click here.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Myth Busting in Law School Admissions01:57 Understanding Law School Admissions Criteria06:31 Debunking the 'Unicorn' Applicant Myth10:30 The Role of Undergraduate Institution Prestige14:29 Navigating the LSAT and Retake Strategies20:11 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Law School Applications21:30 The Importance of Authenticity in Admissions25:22 Addressing Character and Fitness Issues27:56 Navigating Sensitive Topics in Applications33:47 Finding Your Narrative in Law School Applications40:16 Encouragement for Aspiring Law StudentsTakeawaysYou don't need to have perfect scores to get into law school.Admissions look at the whole application, not just numbers.Being a 'splitter' is not a term used in admissions.Exceptional applicants are rare; most are normal people.Undergraduate prestige matters, but it's not everything.LSAT score fluctuations can be viewed positively.Political views do not disqualify applicants if they can engage respectfully.Character and fitness issues are often minor and manageable.Trauma can be discussed in applications if it connects to motivation.Authenticity is key; applicants should be true to themselves.Resources MentionedAccess to Law School Program at Yale Law SchoolNavigating Law School Admissions with Miriam & KristiLawyHer Personal Statement  Consultation ServicesLawyHer InstagramYale Law School Launchpad Scholars

In this very first episode of Becoming LawyHer, Hadiyah Cummings—first-gen lawyer, civil rights advocate, and founder of LawyHer—gets personal. Before the expert interviews and deep-dive strategy sessions, she’s sharing her own story: how she applied to law school at 20 years old, graduated college with a 4.0, scored a 163 on the LSAT, and still got accepted to some of the top law schools in the country—including Yale.But this episode isn’t about numbers. It’s about strategy, identity, and intention. You’ll hear how Hadiyah turned her application into a cohesive narrative where every piece—from her resume to her personal statement—worked together to tell a compelling story. That approach became the foundation of LawyHer’s signature strategy: becoming the main character of your law school application.This episode sets the tone for everything to come: honesty, practical gems, and unapologetic authenticity. If you’ve ever doubted whether you belong in this profession, this one’s for you