So my last post was all about scheduling and finding a balance between being a productive and efficient law student, and not forgetting that appearance matters.
The findings in a recent Newsweek article on the Beauty Advantage was not at all surprising to me. As my close friends know, I have been obsessed with aesthetics. I know that a large part of the experiences I’ve been blessed to have in life are because of my physical appearance.
I know that I am more than just my looks, but I know that a smile, beautiful face, toned body, and clear skin are important for having access to people or opportunities that one would not have access to based on their upbringing alone. For example, I know that I have had great internships and work experience, in large part, because of my looks or the perception that I gave, not because my grades or work-ethic was better than another candidate. I’ve also had the pleasure of attending events and being in the company of those considered “the elite.” So how did little old me get there? Beauty, of course.
Some might disagree, but being smart is just the icing on the cake if you are beautiful. My ability to talk my way into or out of any situation, my broad knowledge base, and my drive only help me reach my goals faster. I am more disciplined now and feel that I am prepared for the rigors of law school. I deferred my law school admission because this time, a year ago I was not ready to fully commit myself to another academic program. I was still burned out from undergrad and just wanted to have fun and continue with my job that I loved.
I realize that doing well in law school and keeping aesthetics as an integral part of my life will be hard, but the benefits will be well worth it. How important do you think beauty is to being a success? Would you be more likely to hire an overweight, ill-dressed lawyer, or a fit, well-groomed lawyer? If your lawyer represents you, don’t you want them displaying self-confidence, discipline, and intelligence before they ever say a word?
