Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Framing and The Addendum

Two weeks ago I received my LSAT score. When I looked at it, I was not happy with my score, nor was I disappointed. I knew I did the best I could, considering that I rarely perform well on any standardized test. Now that my Law School Admissions Test score battle is over, I have started to fill out applications and gather materials for law schools.

However, I am preparing to fight another battle: telling law schools that I can and will be successful in law school despite my LSAT score. Since receiving my score, I contemplated on how I will portray the aforesaid to the admissions committee who will evaluate my application package. While attending one of my PR courses, I had my “ah hah” moment.

In my PR Research & Strategies course, we discussed the content of a publication by the Center for Research on Environmental Decisions titled "The Psychology of Climate Change: A Guide for Scientists, Journalists, Educators, Political Aides, and the Interested Public." In that publication, we were introduced to framing, which is "the setting of an issue within an appropriate context to achieve a desired interpretation or perspective." After learning about what framing is, I knew that it would be a great technique to use when I am writing to the admissions officers about my LSAT score.

Last week I wrote the first draft of my addendum. It took me a while to figure out the structure of my essay, but I eventually came up with what I wanted to include. First, I wrote about how I prepared for the LSAT, and the amount of time I spent preparing. I also included the materials I used to prepare for the LSAT. Then, I thoroughly explained my standardized test history and how the scores did not accurately predict my success in college and compared it to my LSAT results. Lastly, I gave reasons why I would be a great law school student.

I hope the way that I framed the message in my addendum will persuade law school admissions committees to admit me into their law schools. Wish me luck!

4 comments:

  1. When you frame your response, be sure to emphasize how well you do OUTSIDE of standardized tests as well ... which you do!

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  2. Tiffany,

    I think framing your message is a great way to persuade the law admissions office to accept you into their program. I also agree with Dr. D. You are a very bright student, and I am sure the admissions office will be able to tell that from your transcript.

    Not everyone does well on standardized tests. So by stating how well you perform in the classroom, will definitely get you in the door.

    Good luck!

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  3. Tiffany,

    You are one of the best students that I know. All that you need you already have. Do not let your test scores psych you out of applying to every law school you fancy.

    It is all about who you know. You have an amazing reputation within the School of Journalism, and your recommendations will reflect the qualities that will make you a great law student.

    Have faith the size of a mustard seed. Miracles happen every day! Believe me. There are things I have received in life that I would have never believed that I deserved.

    I believe in you, Tiffany. You're incredible. Whatever it is you desire, you will be receive. It may not be the exact program you intended, but it will be the just the one you need to make you the best attorney that you can be.

    You're going to be great, and you'll represent FAMU beautifully. Congratulations in advance!

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  4. Thanks for all of the encouraging words!

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