Writing a Letter of Continued Interest

Writing a Letter of Continued Interest is an important step for students who have been waitlisted or deferred from their top-choice college. This letter gives applicants a chance to reaffirm their commitment to the school and highlight any new achievements or developments since their initial application. The goal is to stand out positively in the admissions committee’s eyes and potentially improve one’s chances of acceptance.

A well-written letter should be concise, enthusiastic, and specific, focusing on why the school remains the student’s top choice and what unique contributions they could bring to campus. It’s an opportunity to provide updates on academic progress, extracurricular activities, or personal growth. While not a guarantee of admission, a thoughtful Letter of Continued Interest can demonstrate persistence and genuine passion for the institution, potentially tipping the scales in the applicant’s favor during the final review process.

What is a Letter of Continued Interest?

A Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) is a formal document sent by an applicant to a college or university to reaffirm their desire to attend the institution after being deferred or placed on a waitlist. It serves as a means for the applicant to communicate their ongoing commitment and enthusiasm for attending the school, as well as to update the admissions office on any new achievements, developments, or experiences that have occurred since submitting their original application. The LOCI is a crucial step in the admissions process for those who have not received a final decision but still hold hope of being admitted.

Deferred Applicants: Students who are deferred are typically high school seniors who have applied under an early action or early decision program but have not been accepted or rejected outright. Instead, the college defers their application to the regular decision pool, which means the admissions committee will review it again with the regular decision applicants. For these students, a LOCI offers a chance to show that despite the deferment, they remain genuinely interested in the institution and would gladly enroll if admitted.

Waitlisted Applicants: Similarly, students who are placed on a waitlist after applying under the regular decision process face uncertainty regarding their admission status. A waitlist implies that the applicant was qualified but could not be offered immediate admission due to factors such as space constraints. In these cases, a LOCI can make a difference by reiterating the applicant’s desire to attend and potentially nudging them toward the top of the waitlist should a spot open.

The Importance of a Letter of Continued Interest

While some may view a deferral or waitlist placement as the end of the road, a well-written LOCI can keep the door open for eventual acceptance. The importance of submitting a LOCI lies in its ability to communicate persistence, reaffirm a genuine interest in the institution, and present new information that could sway the admissions committee’s decision. Below are several key reasons why a LOCI can be a powerful tool for students in limbo.

1. Reinforces Commitment to the Institution

A LOCI reinforces to the admissions committee that the applicant remains highly interested in attending the institution despite being deferred or placed on a waitlist. Many schools use the LOCI as a gauge of an applicant’s level of interest and likelihood of enrolling if admitted. Colleges and universities want to maintain high yield rates, which measure the percentage of accepted students who actually choose to enroll. A strong LOCI signals to the school that the applicant is serious about attending, which could influence their decision to admit the applicant, especially if they are on the fence.

For schools that use yield as a factor in their rankings and overall admissions strategy, having an applicant declare that the institution is their first choice can be significant. If the admissions committee believes that a waitlisted or deferred student will ultimately enroll if offered admission, they may be more likely to extend an offer.

2. Provides an Opportunity for Updates

Admissions committees value new information, especially when it demonstrates growth or improvement. A LOCI allows applicants to present updates that could strengthen their candidacy. For example, a student who has raised their grades, taken on leadership roles, completed impressive projects, or received awards since their original application can use the LOCI to showcase these achievements.

The ability to communicate personal growth is particularly important for students who were deferred during the early action or early decision process. The admissions committee will be reviewing the application again alongside regular decision applicants, so any new information that can make the applicant stand out is essential.

In some cases, an applicant may have faced a challenge or obstacle that impacted their original application, such as a family emergency or illness. The LOCI provides an opportunity to explain any extenuating circumstances and demonstrate how they have overcome these challenges.

3. Strengthens the Personal Connection with the Institution

A LOCI allows applicants to articulate why they are so passionate about attending the specific institution. While the original application may have conveyed this to some extent, a LOCI offers another chance to reinforce this connection. Applicants can look into specific programs, opportunities, or values that align with their academic and personal goals, making it clear that the school is an ideal fit for them.

By providing thoughtful and genuine reasons for wanting to attend the school, applicants can differentiate themselves from others on the waitlist or deferral list. Demonstrating a deep understanding of the school’s culture, academic offerings, and community can show the admissions committee that the applicant has done their homework and is genuinely excited about the prospect of joining the institution.

4. Demonstrates Persistence and Resilience

A deferral or waitlist placement can be discouraging, but submitting a LOCI demonstrates persistence and resilience—qualities that are highly valued by admissions committees. Students who take the initiative to submit a LOCI show that they are proactive and determined to advocate for themselves, even in the face of uncertainty.

Persistence is often seen as a positive trait in higher education, as it suggests that the student will persevere through challenges and setbacks during their college career. By submitting a LOCI, the applicant signals to the admissions committee that they are not giving up and that they are willing to put in the effort to secure a spot at the institution.

Additionally, resilience is an important characteristic in today’s competitive academic environment. Admissions committees look for students who can handle adversity and remain focused on their goals. A LOCI offers applicants the chance to highlight how they have navigated the deferral or waitlist process and continued to excel.

5. Clarifies Enrollment Intentions

For schools that have a waitlist, the LOCI can help clarify an applicant’s enrollment intentions. In some cases, students who are placed on a waitlist may not be sure whether they would still want to attend the school if admitted later in the cycle. By submitting a LOCI, the applicant sends a clear message that they are still very interested in attending.

Admissions committees value this clarity because it helps them manage their waitlist more effectively. If the committee knows that a student who submits a LOCI is highly likely to enroll if admitted, they may prioritize that student over others who have not communicated their intentions as clearly.

A LOCI can also help admissions committees gauge which waitlisted students are still available to fill potential spots. In some cases, students who have been waitlisted may have already committed to another institution, and the LOCI helps the admissions office understand which applicants are still in play.

6. Humanizes the Application Process

College admissions can sometimes feel like a numbers game, where applicants are reduced to their grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities. A LOCI offers applicants the chance to humanize their application by sharing more personal reflections, goals, and experiences. The letter allows the admissions committee to see the applicant as a whole person rather than just a set of statistics.

By providing additional context and insights into the applicant’s journey, the LOCI can help the admissions committee form a more holistic view of the candidate. This personal touch can be particularly important for students who may not have had the opportunity to fully convey their personality and aspirations in the original application.

Furthermore, the LOCI allows the applicant to express their excitement about joining the college community. This enthusiasm can leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee and differentiate the applicant from others who may not have taken the time to submit a letter.

7. Enhances Communication with the Admissions Office

Submitting a LOCI opens a line of communication between the applicant and the admissions office. It shows that the applicant is engaged and invested in the outcome of the admissions process. This communication can also provide an opportunity for the admissions office to learn more about the applicant’s goals and motivations, potentially leading to a more favorable decision.

While admissions offices often deal with a high volume of applications, personalizing the process through a LOCI can make an applicant stand out. By demonstrating continued interest and offering updates, the applicant creates a dialogue that could keep them top of mind for admissions officers.

8. Final Chance to Make a Strong Impression

For waitlisted or deferred students, the LOCI may represent the final opportunity to make a strong impression on the admissions committee. After the initial application has been submitted, the applicant has limited chances to influence the committee’s decision. The LOCI offers one last opportunity to highlight strengths, share updates, and reinforce a commitment to the school.

Applicants should view the LOCI as a chance to leave a lasting impression by showcasing their enthusiasm, accomplishments, and potential contributions to the college community. A thoughtful, well-written LOCI can make all the difference when the admissions committee is making final decisions.

Key Components of an Effective Letter of Continued Interest

1. Gratitude for the Opportunity

The opening of a LOCI should always begin with gratitude. Acknowledging the effort of the admissions committee in reviewing your application and expressing appreciation for being considered helps to set a respectful tone. It shows that you value the opportunity to have your application reviewed and that you appreciate the consideration, even if you were not admitted in the first round.

Example:

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the admissions committee for reviewing my application and placing me on the waitlist. I am honored to still be under consideration for admission, and I deeply appreciate the time and effort that went into evaluating my application.”

This element of the letter ensures that the applicant maintains a positive and respectful relationship with the admissions office. It also subtly conveys professionalism, which is crucial for demonstrating your maturity and seriousness as a prospective student.

2. Reaffirming Interest in the Institution

Once gratitude is expressed, it is essential to reaffirm your strong interest in attending the institution. This should not just be a generic statement but should include specific reasons why you are drawn to the school. Mentioning particular programs, faculty members, research opportunities, or aspects of campus life that resonate with your academic and personal goals will demonstrate that your interest is genuine.

Tips for Effective Reaffirmation:

• Be specific: Mention details about the school that align with your academic or career goals.
• Make it personal: Highlight how the institution’s values or community resonates with your personal background or aspirations.
• Avoid generic flattery: Statements like “This is a prestigious school” lack depth. Instead, emphasize specific attributes that make the institution a perfect fit for you.

Example:

“After extensive reflection, I remain as committed as ever to joining [School Name] due to its unparalleled opportunities in environmental science research, particularly the work being done by Professor [Name] in sustainable urban planning. I have long admired [School Name] for its commitment to addressing global environmental challenges, and I am eager to contribute to these efforts as a student and future alumnus.”

By reaffirming your interest with specific and thoughtful details, you show the admissions committee that you have done your homework and that you see their institution as more than just a stepping stone—it’s the ideal place for your academic journey.

3. Providing Updates on Achievements

Admissions committees are interested in students who continue to grow and achieve, even after submitting their applications. One of the most important components of a LOCI is the update section, where you inform the committee about any significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular, that have occurred since you submitted your original application.

Examples of Updates to Include:

• Academic achievements: Any significant improvements in grades, new awards, or recognitions.
• Extracurricular involvement: Leadership roles, volunteer work, or involvement in clubs that demonstrate initiative and growth.
• Professional experiences: Internships, work experiences, or projects that align with your career goals or academic interests.
• Personal achievements: Notable milestones or accomplishments that highlight your character, resilience, or growth.

Example:

“Since submitting my application, I have continued to challenge myself academically and personally. This semester, I earned a 4.0 GPA while taking advanced courses in molecular biology and organic chemistry. Additionally, I was elected president of the Environmental Action Club, where I organized a community-wide campaign to reduce plastic waste in local schools. This experience has further fueled my passion for environmental science and confirmed my desire to pursue a career in sustainable development.”

Including updates not only shows the admissions committee that you are continuing to excel but also provides a narrative of personal growth. These updates can reaffirm your fit for the school and may demonstrate qualities that the admissions team is looking for in a candidate.

4. Clarifying Why the School is Still Your Top Choice

It’s important to clearly convey that the school remains your top choice and that, if admitted, you would absolutely attend. This is particularly crucial for schools that use waitlists, as they want to know whether students on the waitlist will accept their offer if extended.

Strategies for Making This Point:

• Use direct language: Be clear in stating that the school is your first choice. Avoid ambiguous or non-committal language.
• Emphasize fit: Make a strong case for why you are a perfect fit for the institution, and why the institution is the perfect fit for you.
• Commit to attending: If true, explicitly state that you will accept an offer of admission if given the opportunity.

Example:

“I want to reiterate that [School Name] remains my absolute top choice for college. If I am offered admission, I will enthusiastically accept and cannot imagine a better place to continue my education.”

By explicitly stating that you would attend if admitted, you remove any doubt about your commitment. This is a critical factor for waitlisted students, as schools are more likely to offer spots to applicants they believe will enroll.

5. Exhibiting Continued Enthusiasm and Positivity

Throughout your LOCI, it is essential to maintain a tone of enthusiasm and positivity. You want the admissions committee to feel your excitement about the prospect of attending their school. At the same time, your tone should remain professional and respectful, avoiding any hint of entitlement or frustration about not being admitted earlier.

How to Convey Enthusiasm:

• Use positive language: Focus on your excitement about the opportunities the school offers rather than disappointment about your current status.
• Highlight future potential: Emphasize how being a student at the school will help you achieve your long-term academic and career goals.
• Avoid negative comparisons: Do not compare the school to other institutions in a negative way, even if it’s to express your preference for this particular school.

Example:

“I remain incredibly excited about the possibility of joining the vibrant academic community at [School Name]. The chance to work alongside passionate students and esteemed faculty in such a dynamic learning environment is something I look forward to with great anticipation.”

By keeping the tone positive, you show that you can remain gracious and composed, even in the face of uncertainty. This is an admirable quality that admissions committees often value.

6. Professionalism and Precision

An effective LOCI must be well-written and free of errors. Sloppy writing, grammatical mistakes, or lack of attention to detail can reflect poorly on you as a candidate. Your LOCI should exhibit the same level of care and professionalism as your original application.

Key Elements of Professionalism:

• Clear structure: Your letter should have a logical flow, with each section leading naturally to the next.
• Conciseness: Avoid overly long letters. A LOCI should typically be no more than one page.
• Proofreading: Ensure that your letter is free from spelling and grammatical errors. It’s helpful to have someone else read it over as well.

Example of a Structured LOCI:

1. Opening with gratitude.
2. Reaffirmation of interest in the school.
3. Updates on achievements since the initial application.
4. Statement of why the school is still your top choice.
5. Conclusion with continued enthusiasm and a professional closing.

7. Closing with Appreciation and Next Steps

As with any professional correspondence, it’s important to close your LOCI on a positive and appreciative note. Thank the admissions committee once again for their time and consideration, and express that you look forward to hearing from them.

Example:

“Thank you again for your time and for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from the admissions committee and remain hopeful that I will have the opportunity to join the [School Name] community. Please do not hesitate to reach out if any additional information is needed.”

This polite closing leaves the door open for further communication and reinforces your enthusiasm and patience during the process.

8. Follow-Up and Patience

After submitting your LOCI, it’s important to follow up if necessary but to also be patient with the process. Admissions committees receive numerous LOCIs, and decisions may take time. If you do not receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, it is acceptable to follow up with a short and polite email to inquire about the status of your application. However, avoid sending multiple follow-ups, as this can come across as impatient or pushy.

Final Thoughts on Follow-Up:

• Be patient: Recognize that waitlist and deferred decisions can take time.
• Be polite: If following up, keep your tone respectful and understanding.
• Be consistent: Continue to demonstrate your enthusiasm and professionalism in all communications.

How to Write a Compelling Letter of Continued Interest

Follow the School’s Guidelines (If Provided)

Some schools may provide specific instructions for how to submit a LOCI, including guidelines on length, format, or content. Before starting, it’s essential to research the institution’s policies or contact the admissions office if necessary.

• Check for explicit guidelines on the school’s website or in the deferral/waitlist notification.
• Adhere to formatting and submission guidelines (email, portal upload, etc.) to ensure compliance.

Use a Formal but Enthusiastic Tone

While writing your LOCI, it is essential to maintain a professional tone. However, you also want to convey genuine enthusiasm for the program. Strike a balance between formality and sincerity.

• Begin the letter with a respectful salutation, addressing the appropriate individual (usually the admissions committee or a specific officer, if known).
• Use a tone that reflects both professionalism and passion. Avoid sounding desperate, but ensure that your continued interest is clear.

Address the Admissions Committee Politely

Start your LOCI with a polite and professional greeting. You should address the letter to the correct person, which could be a specific admissions officer or the entire admissions committee. Using the right title and name demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to personalize your letter.

• Find the appropriate contact person within the admissions office. If a specific officer is assigned to your region or program, address your letter to them.
• If you don’t have a specific name, address the letter to the Admissions Committee.
• Example:
  • “Dear [Name of Admissions Officer],”
  • “Dear [School Name] Admissions Committee,”

Express Gratitude

Begin your LOCI by thanking the admissions committee for considering your application and for placing you on the waitlist or deferring your decision. Acknowledge that you appreciate their time and effort in reviewing your application.

• Open with a sentence expressing gratitude, such as:
  • “Thank you for considering my application and for placing me on the waitlist.”
  • “I appreciate the opportunity to remain under consideration for the upcoming admissions cycle.”

Gratitude reflects your humility and appreciation for their work, fostering a positive tone for the rest of the letter.

Reaffirm Your Interest in the School/Program

After expressing your gratitude, reaffirm your commitment to attending the institution. This is arguably the most critical part of the letter, as it reiterates your desire to be a part of their academic community.

• Clearly state that the institution remains your top choice or that you are still enthusiastic about attending.
• Avoid overstatements or emotional appeals like, “I will do anything to attend,” as they may come across as desperate.

Sample Statement:

• “After further consideration, [School Name] remains my top choice, and I am eager to contribute to and benefit from the unique opportunities your program offers.”

Provide Meaningful Updates (If Applicable)

The next section should focus on any updates that are relevant to your application. These could include new grades, test scores, awards, extracurricular achievements, or significant personal accomplishments that strengthen your candidacy.

• List significant updates since you submitted your original application.
• Updates could include:
  • Academic performance (e.g., improved grades in challenging courses).
  • New test scores that reflect academic improvement.
  • Awards, recognitions, or honors received since your application.
  • New extracurricular activities, leadership positions, or community involvement.
  • Personal achievements or milestones that reflect your character or dedication.

Ensure that all updates are relevant to your application and showcase your continued growth as an applicant.

Example:

• “Since submitting my application, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA in my senior-year courses, including AP Biology and Calculus. I also received the [Award Name] for my community service project, which underscores my commitment to social impact—an area I hope to further explore at [School Name].”

Highlight Why the School is Still the Perfect Fit

In addition to expressing your interest, you should also reinforce why the school is an ideal fit for your academic and career aspirations. Be specific in your reasoning to show that you have a deep understanding of what the program offers.

• Highlight the academic programs, extracurriculars, or unique aspects of the school that align with your goals.
• Mention any specific courses, professors, research opportunities, or campus resources that are particularly appealing to you.

This demonstrates that your interest is grounded in careful research and that you’re not sending a generic LOCI.

Sample Statement:

• “I am particularly drawn to [School Name] because of its robust [Program Name], where I hope to work with Professor [Name] on [specific research project or interest]. Additionally, the school’s commitment to [value, mission, or initiative] aligns perfectly with my own academic and professional goals.”

Reiterate Your Commitment to Attending

Toward the end of the letter, reaffirm your willingness to attend the institution if offered a place. This is a key element because the admissions committee wants to know that if they extend an offer, you will likely accept.

• Explicitly state that you will accept an offer of admission if extended.
• Be respectful and considerate, avoiding any tone of entitlement.

Example:

• “If offered admission, I am prepared to enroll and am excited to contribute to the [School Name] community.”

Maintain a Concise and Respectful Length

While it’s important to include all relevant information, it’s equally important to keep your LOCI concise. Admissions officers are reviewing hundreds, if not thousands, of applications and documents, so a letter that is too long may not receive the attention it deserves.

• Keep the letter to a page (usually between 250-400 words).
• Avoid unnecessary details or fluff. Stick to updates and essential reasons why you remain interested in the school.
• Edit and proofread the letter to ensure clarity and conciseness.

Conclude with Gratitude and Professionalism

To wrap up your LOCI, conclude by thanking the admissions committee once more for their time and consideration. Reaffirm your desire to contribute to their community and express hope that they will review your updated candidacy favorably.

• Offer a final statement of thanks, reiterating your appreciation for the admissions committee’s efforts.
• End on a positive note, expressing optimism for the future of your application.

Sample Closing Statement:

• “Thank you once again for your time and consideration. I remain deeply committed to attending [School Name] and am hopeful that I may have the opportunity to contribute to such a dynamic and enriching academic environment. Please feel free to contact me if any further information is needed.”

Proofread for Grammar and Clarity

Before submitting your LOCI, it is crucial to proofread your letter for any grammatical errors, typos, or awkward phrasing. A poorly written letter could reflect negatively on your candidacy, while a clear and polished letter enhances your professionalism.

• Read the letter aloud to catch awkward sentences or confusing phrasing.
• Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.
• Ask a friend, teacher, or family member to review your LOCI for clarity and tone.

This ensures that your LOCI is error-free and presents you in the best possible light.

Submit the Letter Through the Proper Channels

Once your letter is polished and ready to go, submit it through the appropriate channels. This could be via email, through the school’s online portal, or by mail, depending on the institution’s instructions.

• Submit through the method indicated by the school. If they request that the letter be uploaded to a portal, do not send it via email unless explicitly allowed.
• Ensure the letter is addressed correctly, and all necessary details (like your application number) are included.
• Keep a copy for your records and note the date of submission.

Letter of Continued Interest for Law School

The journey to law school admission is often a complex and competitive process. For many aspiring law students, being placed on a waitlist can be a challenging experience. However, it also presents an opportunity to reaffirm your interest and strengthen your candidacy through a well-written letter of continued interest (LOCI).

Key Elements of an Effective Letter of Continued Interest for Law School

Now that we understand the purpose and importance of a LOCI, let’s explore the essential components that make such a letter effective.

1. Emphasizing Legal Internships or Relevant Work Experience

One of the most impactful ways to strengthen your candidacy is by highlighting any legal internships or relevant work experience you’ve gained since submitting your initial application.

Showcasing Legal Internships

If you’ve secured a legal internship, consider the following points when discussing it in your LOCI:

• Describe the nature of the internship and the organization you worked with
• Highlight specific responsibilities and tasks you undertook
• Discuss any notable achievements or projects you contributed to
• Explain how the internship has reinforced or evolved your interest in law
• Connect the skills and knowledge gained to your future legal studies

Example: “Since submitting my application, I have completed a summer internship at the Smith & Johnson Law Firm, specializing in corporate law. During this experience, I assisted in drafting legal memoranda, conducted extensive legal research on recent changes in corporate regulations, and participated in client meetings. This internship not only solidified my interest in corporate law but also provided me with practical insights into the day-to-day operations of a law firm.”

Highlighting Relevant Work Experience

If you’ve gained work experience in a field related to law or that demonstrates transferable skills, emphasize it in your letter:

• Explain the relevance of your work to legal studies or practice
• Highlight skills developed that are valuable in the legal profession (e.g., analytical thinking, written communication, problem-solving)
• Discuss any legal or ethical issues you encountered and how you addressed them
• Explain how this experience has prepared you for the rigors of law school

Example: “In my current role as a compliance officer at XYZ Corporation, I’ve gained valuable experience in interpreting and applying complex regulations. I’ve led initiatives to ensure our company’s adherence to new data protection laws, which required extensive research, analysis, and clear communication of legal requirements to non-legal staff. This experience has honed my analytical skills and deepened my understanding of the practical applications of law in a business context.”

2. Discussing Law-Related Coursework or Research Projects

Another crucial element to include in your LOCI is any law-related coursework or research projects you’ve undertaken since your initial application. This demonstrates your ongoing commitment to legal studies and your ability to engage with complex legal concepts.

Law-Related Coursework

When discussing relevant coursework, consider the following:

• Mention specific courses you’ve taken or are currently taking
• Explain how these courses have deepened your understanding of legal concepts
• Highlight any exceptional performances or achievements in these courses
• Discuss how this coursework has prepared you for law school
• Connect the course material to your intended area of legal study

Example: “This semester, I enrolled in an advanced seminar on Constitutional Law, where I engaged in in-depth analysis of landmark Supreme Court cases. Our final project required us to write a mock Supreme Court opinion on a current constitutional issue. This experience not only enhanced my understanding of constitutional interpretation but also improved my legal writing skills. It reaffirmed my passion for constitutional law and my desire to explore this area further at [Law School Name].”

Research Projects

If you’ve undertaken any law-related research projects, be sure to highlight them:

• Describe the focus and scope of your research
• Explain the methodology you used
• Discuss any significant findings or conclusions
• Mention any presentations or publications resulting from your research
• Relate your research experience to your law school goals

Example: “Over the past six months, I have been working on an independent research project examining the intersection of artificial intelligence and privacy law. This project involved analyzing current legislation, case law, and proposed regulations across multiple jurisdictions. I recently presented my findings at the Undergraduate Law and Technology Symposium, where my paper was selected for publication in the symposium’s journal. This experience has not only deepened my interest in technology law but has also prepared me for the rigorous research and writing demands of law school.”

3. Highlighting Participation in Mock Trials or Debate Competitions

Participation in mock trials or debate competitions can significantly strengthen your LOCI by demonstrating your oral advocacy skills, critical thinking abilities, and passion for legal argumentation.

Mock Trials

When discussing your involvement in mock trials, consider these points:

• Describe the nature and scope of the mock trial competition
• Explain your role (e.g., attorney, witness, researcher)
• Highlight any awards or recognitions received
• Discuss specific skills you developed (e.g., courtroom etiquette, evidence presentation, cross-examination techniques)
• Relate your mock trial experience to your law school aspirations

Example: “This spring, I participated in the National Undergraduate Mock Trial Competition, where I served as lead counsel for the defense in a complex civil litigation case. Our team advanced to the national finals, and I was honored to receive the Best Oral Advocate award. This experience honed my skills in case analysis, argument construction, and courtroom presentation. It also reaffirmed my passion for litigation and my desire to pursue trial advocacy courses at [Law School Name].”

Debate Competitions

If you’ve participated in debate competitions, emphasize the following:

• Mention the type and level of debate competition
• Highlight any achievements or awards
• Discuss the topics you debated, especially if they were law-related
• Explain how debate has improved your logical reasoning and public speaking skills
• Connect your debate experience to the skills needed in law school and legal practice

Example: “Since my initial application, I’ve continued to participate in intercollegiate debate competitions, focusing on policy debates related to constitutional law and civil rights. In the recent State Forensics Championship, my partner and I secured first place, debating the constitutionality of recent voting rights legislation. This experience has significantly enhanced my ability to construct persuasive arguments, think on my feet, and articulate complex legal concepts clearly and concisely – skills I’m eager to further develop in law school.”

4. Mentioning Legal Publications or Presentations

Including information about any legal publications or presentations in your LOCI can demonstrate your ability to contribute to legal discourse and your commitment to the field.

Legal Publications

When discussing publications, consider the following:

• Provide the title and publication details of your work
• Briefly explain the focus and main arguments of your publication
• Mention any notable responses or citations your work has received
• Discuss how the publication process has prepared you for legal writing in law school
• Connect your publication topic to your intended area of legal study

Example: “I’m pleased to share that my article, ‘The Evolution of Privacy Rights in the Digital Age,’ was recently published in the Undergraduate Journal of Law and Technology. This piece examines the challenges posed by emerging technologies to traditional concepts of privacy and proposes a framework for updating privacy laws. The research and writing process deepened my understanding of legal analysis and academic legal writing, skills I’m excited to further develop at [Law School Name].”

Legal Presentations

If you’ve given any presentations on legal topics, highlight them as follows:

• Describe the nature and context of the presentation (e.g., conference, symposium, guest lecture)
• Explain the main points of your presentation
• Discuss any feedback or engagement you received
• Highlight how the experience improved your public speaking and legal communication skills
• Relate the presentation topic to your law school interests

Example: “Last month, I was invited to present at the Young Scholars Law and Society Conference on the topic of environmental justice and corporate responsibility. My presentation, titled ‘Corporate Liability in Environmental Disasters: A Comparative Analysis,’ examined recent case law across different jurisdictions. The Q&A session that followed was particularly enlightening, as it allowed me to engage with law professors and practitioners on complex legal issues. This experience not only improved my ability to communicate legal concepts to diverse audiences but also solidified my interest in pursuing environmental law at [Law School Name].”

Structuring Your Letter of Continued Interest

Now that we’ve covered the key elements to include in your LOCI, let’s discuss how to structure the letter effectively.

1. Opening Paragraph

Your opening paragraph should:

• Clearly state the purpose of your letter
• Express your continued strong interest in the law school
• Briefly mention your current status (e.g., on the waitlist)
• Provide a brief overview of what the letter will cover

Example: “I am writing to reaffirm my strong interest in attending [Law School Name] and to provide updates on my recent achievements and experiences since submitting my initial application. As a candidate currently on your waitlist, I am eager to share how my continued engagement with legal studies and practical experiences have further prepared me for the rigorous program at [Law School Name].”

2. Body Paragraphs

The body of your letter should elaborate on the key elements discussed earlier. Organize your paragraphs thematically, focusing on:

• Recent legal internships or relevant work experience
• New law-related coursework or research projects
• Participation in mock trials or debate competitions
• Any legal publications or presentations

For each theme, provide specific details, examples, and reflections on how these experiences have prepared you for law school and reinforced your interest in [Law School Name].

3. School-Specific Paragraph

Include a paragraph that demonstrates your specific interest in and knowledge of the law school:

• Mention particular programs, clinics, or faculty members that interest you
• Explain how these align with your career goals and interests
• Discuss how you plan to contribute to the law school community
• Show that you’ve done your research and have a genuine interest in the school

Example: “I am particularly drawn to [Law School Name]’s renowned Environmental Law Clinic. Professor Johnson’s work on climate change litigation aligns closely with my research interests, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to ongoing projects in this area. Additionally, the school’s strong moot court program would allow me to further develop my advocacy skills, building on my recent mock trial experiences.”

4. Closing Paragraph

Your closing paragraph should:

• Reiterate your strong interest in attending the law school
• Express gratitude for the committee’s continued consideration
• Offer to provide any additional information if needed
• End with a polite and professional sign-off

Example: “Thank you for your continued consideration of my application. I remain extremely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the [Law School Name] community and contributing to its rich academic environment. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information. I look forward to the possibility of becoming a part of the incoming class at [Law School Name].“

Length of a Letter of Continued Interest

The ideal length for such a letter is generally between 250-500 words, or about one single-spaced page.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Length:
   • Typically 250-500 words
   • Usually fits on one single-spaced page
   • Rarely exceeds two pages
2. Format:
   • Standard business letter format
   • Clear, concise paragraphs
   • Professional tone throughout
3. Content:
   • Brief introduction stating your continued interest
   • 2-3 paragraphs highlighting new achievements, improved grades, or additional information
   • Conclusion reaffirming your enthusiasm for the school
4. Considerations for length:
   • Be respectful of the admissions officer’s time
   • Include all relevant information without being overly verbose
   • Quality of content matters more than quantity of words

Sample Template for a Letter of Continued Interest

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]

[Date]

[Admissions Officer’s Name]
[School Name]
[School Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],

I am writing to express my continued strong interest in [School Name] and to provide you with updates on my recent achievements since submitting my application.

[Paragraph about new accomplishments, experiences, or awards]

[Paragraph explaining why you’re an excellent fit for the school and how you align with their values]

Thank you for your time and consideration. I remain extremely enthusiastic about the possibility of attending [School Name] and contributing to your community.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

FAQs on Writing a Letter of Continued Interest