Following the Supreme Court’s decision in the SFFA v. Harvard case, there was palpable apprehension as to the potential chilling effect it might have on diverse law school applicants. Fears arose that the decision might discourage applications from any candidate who wouldn’t fit the mold of Stephen Miller’s favored type of plaintiff.
Nevertheless, law schools and the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) swiftly responded to the ruling by modifying their essay questions. Advice to potential students to keep applying despite the decision proliferated from various corners, and it appears that this advice has been heeded.
The American Bar Association (ABA) Journal reports that, contrary to predictions, more students of color are submitting their applications to law school. According to the latest LSAC data, applicants in nearly all ethnic categories have increased. This surprising twist leads to the question: has the court’s decision unintentionally spurred greater interest in law school amongst students of color? Read more about it in the ABA Journal.
While this overall increase in applications from diverse candidates has led to some celebration, we must recall that these are simply application numbers. The real barometer for diversity progress will be seen in acceptance figures.
Amidst this scenario, the SFFA v. Harvard case hasn’t shaken the determination of diverse applicants, defying its anticipated role as a scare tactic. This points to a promising inclination of applicants irrespective of ethnicity to apply where they see fit, not necessarily where they are expected to.
For further insights, refer to the thorough coverage by the ABA Journal: SCOTUS Decision Not Dissuading Students Of Color From Applying To Law School, New LSAC Data Shows.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s ruling on SFFA v. Harvard, initially seen as a potential deterrent to diversity in law school applications, now stands as an interesting case study of unexpected consequences. Notwithstanding its apparent entrance as a disruptor, it now may serve as an unexpected catalyst of inclusion.
You can read the full story along with further context right here on Above The Law.