mediocre UK MA grades - Top US LLM?


gennyav

Hi all

Looking for second opinions here. I am currently a trainee solicitor and would like to do an LLM in the future (2 years after qualification or so).

I have an unusual background: admitted to a BA aged 16 and got a high 2:1. Went on to do an MA (non legal subject) at a top 5 UK uni at 18 and graduated with a pass. During that time I struggled with a number of mental health issues which resulted on me being in therapy for a couple of years.

After some time (and work experience) did the GDL (commendation) and LPC ( high distinction) - now TC. I have a good amount of work experience, volunteering and other extra-curricular activities/positions of responsibility. I also speak three languages.

Question: Do I really have to disclose my MA grades in my LLM application (even if the subject is irrelevant to law and I have other pg degrees?) if so, how much do you guys think it will harm my application to a top 10 US LLM? I dread the whole process of discussing my mental health issues and trying to explain my grades. Will they understand/be sympathetic to the context of the situation?

Any point in reaching out to the universities before applying and trying to get their view?

Thank you!

Hi all

Looking for second opinions here. I am currently a trainee solicitor and would like to do an LLM in the future (2 years after qualification or so).

I have an unusual background: admitted to a BA aged 16 and got a high 2:1. Went on to do an MA (non legal subject) at a top 5 UK uni at 18 and graduated with a pass. During that time I struggled with a number of mental health issues which resulted on me being in therapy for a couple of years.

After some time (and work experience) did the GDL (commendation) and LPC ( high distinction) - now TC. I have a good amount of work experience, volunteering and other extra-curricular activities/positions of responsibility. I also speak three languages.

Question: Do I really have to disclose my MA grades in my LLM application (even if the subject is irrelevant to law and I have other pg degrees?) if so, how much do you guys think it will harm my application to a top 10 US LLM? I dread the whole process of discussing my mental health issues and trying to explain my grades. Will they understand/be sympathetic to the context of the situation?

Any point in reaching out to the universities before applying and trying to get their view?

Thank you!
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chicken so...

I don't think you'll necessarily *have* to disclose your grades, but you certainly shouldn't lie or mislead on your applications.

Consider this: you don't include your MA studies on your CV or application. What are you going to say when they ask you about that huge one-year gap?

Personally, I think your strong undergraduate performance, plus all of your practical work experience would more than make up for your mediocre grades during your MA program.

I don't think you'll necessarily *have* to disclose your grades, but you certainly shouldn't lie or mislead on your applications.

Consider this: you don't include your MA studies on your CV or application. What are you going to say when they ask you about that huge one-year gap?

Personally, I think your strong undergraduate performance, plus all of your practical work experience would more than make up for your mediocre grades during your MA program.
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