Ep 122: What to Know as a Law School Applicant with a Disability
In this episode, Sydney shares her personal journey of navigating law school admissions while dealing with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and neurodivergence. Drawing from her own experience with fibromyalgia, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, Sydney addresses the challenges faced during law school, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and seeking support. She covers practical advice for applying to law school with health considerations, obtaining accommodations for exams, and the significance of transparency in the workplace as a lawyer with physical or mental health challenges. Sydney's insights provide a valuable resource for individuals facing similar obstacles on their path to becoming successful attorneys.
Episode Highlights
Sydney shares her personal journey dealing with fibromyalgia, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, ADHD, anxiety, and depression during law school.
Emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy when applying to law schools with health considerations.
Encourages applicants to openly seek support, dispelling concerns about disclosure impacting admissions decisions.
Advises asking law schools about available accommodations, seeking information from current students, and attending events to connect with admissions professionals.
Stresses the significance of obtaining accommodations for the LSAT exam, sharing personal experiences with accommodations on the bar exam.
Highlights the importance of writing about health challenges in diversity statements and supplemental essays.
Discusses securing financial assistance for medical expenses beyond the personal allowance through law school financial aid.
Shares personal experiences of receiving grants for documented medical expenses during law school.
Provides insights into obtaining workplace accommodations as a law clerk and being transparent with employers about health needs as a lawyer.
Encourages individuals to view their health challenges as a unique strength that enhances their abilities as future attorneys.
Emphasizes the role of empathy and resilience in overcoming obstacles, ultimately contributing to a successful legal career.
Tweetable Quotes
“I know that the [disabilities] that we have that we carry do not make us weaker. They do not set us back. But they are the things that make us stronger, and we are better attorneys, better advocates, and better people. Because we have learned how to navigate life with the additional things that we carry. And so remember that. It is your superpower. It is the thing that makes you, you. And the thing that’s going to make you successful and empathetic and just an all around fantastic kickass attorney.”