Law School Admissions Consulting | Mara Freilich

AN IVY LEAGUE-TRAINED LAWYER AND LAW SCHOOL ADMISSIONS COACH

I’m Mara Freilich, a Penn Law grad, a former civil litigator, and a splitter who was once told to aim lower. I didn’t. Now, I help ambitious applicants turn their unique stories into T14 acceptances and millions in scholarships.

HERE'S WHAT I BELIEVE

Everyone has a powerful story to tell (yes, even you!)…and it is that story that will get you into law school.

And no, this isn’t some feel-good, Hallmark-inspired testament just to uplift you, but something I know to be true from actual experience.

About Mara Freilich, Law School Admissions Consultant

I’m Mara Freilich, a law school admissions consultant, former civil litigator, and University of Pennsylvania Law School graduate.

My path to a top law school wasn’t typical. When I applied, I didn’t have the GPA or LSAT score that usually leads to T14 admissions. I was told to lower my expectations.

Instead, I built a strategic application around my story, strengths, and long-term goals—and was admitted to nearly every Top 10 law school I applied to, ultimately receiving the Toll Public Interest Scholarship at Penn Law.

That experience shapes how I approach law school admissions consulting today.

After law school, I clerked for a federal judge and worked at a top law firm, where I later helped evaluate candidates as part of the hiring process. I’ve also conducted interviews for the University of Pennsylvania, giving me direct insight into how applicants are assessed.

Today, I work one-on-one with applicants to build clear, strategic applications that stand out in highly competitive admissions cycles.

I founded Top Law School Consulting to bring that level of strategy and advocacy to applicants navigating the law school admissions process—so they stand out and present a compelling case for admission.

The results? 

100% of my clients are admitted to at least one of their target schools. Combined, they have secured millions in scholarships. 

Stay connected with me on TikTok, Reddit, and LinkedIn.

Credentials and background:

The results can be mind-blowing:

JUST THINK…

Because as surreal as that sounds, that’s what happened to me. (It’s what happens for my clients
too when they harness the power of their unique story)

Because here’s the truth no one talks about:

Being the top of the top isn’t just about having the perfect stats.

My story ultimately led me to the University of Pennsylvania Law School after receiving the competitive Toll Public Interest Scholarship.

(look at baby me!)

The very reason I had always been so dead set on going to my dream school proved true.

Because the types of opportunities that open up when you attend your top school are unparalleled:

Had I not gone to the top law school of my dreams, I can confidently say I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish all this.

Want to learn more about how you CAN get into your dream law school...no matter what odds you think are stacked against you?

It’ll walk you through the exact steps to stand out and get admitted to your dream law school–even if you don’t have the perfect GPA, highest LSAT score, or most unique story.

The Mantras I’ll Shout From the Rooftops

EVERYONE HAS A UNIQUE AND POWERFUL STORY
I saw how my own story was the key to my success in my law school admissions journey, and I see how it is the critical component for every law school applicant I’ve worked with. I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t have something unique and powerful to share…sometimes it just takes a little digging (or gentle interrogation from me!).

THE BEST LAW SCHOOL IS NOT THE SAME FOR EVERYONE
–and definitely doesn’t have to do with rankings. I didn’t go to the highest-ranked school I got into because I knew that there was a school that was offering me something better, better for me. Look at your ultimate career and life goals and figure out what school will best get you there.

YOU CAN DO A LOT OF THINGS WRONG…AND STILL, BE OK…MAYBE EVEN BETTER
In law school and even after, I rejected a lot of the “right” way to do things…said no to prestigious law journals, skipped on-campus recruiting where most students get their jobs and left a highly competitive position as a federal clerk to teach yoga and recover from taking care of a dying family member. I’m pretty sure my law school advisor (lovingly) wanted to kill me. But I still ended up at a highly sought-after public interest law firm, doing work I was passionate about. So my point…don’t be afraid to reject the shoulds…you never know where it may lead you.

YOU ARE MORE THAN YOUR GOALS, YOUR WORK, YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS
I’ve always had big ambitions and professional success. But I’m not just a lawyer or law school admissions consultant. I’m Mara, the passionate, goofy, klutz who is always available for a spontaneous dance-off or a deep conversation. Who are you? Don’t forget that during the stress of your law journey.

MOST PEOPLE SHOULDN’T GO TO LAW SCHOOL
Yes, even though I’m an admissions consultant, I said it! Law life is tough; there are long hours, emotionally draining clients, tedious tasks,

THESE MANTRAS GUIDE EVERYTHING I DO.

That’s why I run Top Law School Consulting differently

I WORK ONE-ON-ONE WITH CLIENTS
You won’t be getting some random consultant who barely knows your name, and you’ll never have to track me down for a response or edits. I have time for you. And we’re going to get personal; I get to know you, your story, and your law school dreams…and then help you achieve them.
YOU WON’T FIND ANY CARBON COPY ADVICE OR RUBBER STAMPING
I’m a hands-on partner in your law school admissions journey, which means I’ll give you lots of substantive feedback and ideas of my own…not just grammar or small edits you could ask a friend to look for. Together we’ll start from scratch, figuring out the best narrative for your application and strategize every piece of your law school application from there.
YOU’LL ALWAYS FIND A JUDGMENT-FREE ZONE.
Around here we don’t believe any score is too low, any dream too ridiculous, or any background not enough. We work with clients from all walks of life, pursuing all different kinds of goals (that’s what makes this job fun!) We genuinely care to hear about you and your story, but we also know that the best applications are those that can open up and be honest…so we create a space that is safe to do that.
I BELIEVE IN YOU
I believe in your ability to achieve your goals…which means sometimes I’ll push you…to write another draft, to go back to the drawing board, to try another study method.
WE’RE A TEAM, BUT YOU’RE IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT

I am here to give you every ounce of support you need to get the best law school admissions results for you. You’ll always get my honest opinions and feedback, but you’ll never feel pressured to do anything that doesn’t feel right for you.

There’s always another path forward, and together, we’ll find what will get you to your top law school.

What’s included in my law school admissions consulting

Getting into a top law school takes more than just good grades and test scores. You need a clear, focused strategy for every part of your application. My law school admissions consulting offers personalized, one-on-one support to help you tell your story, improve your materials, and boost your chances for admission and scholarships.
 

Personal statement strategy and editing (Building your narrative)

Your personal statement is the most important part of your application and is often what determines if you get accepted.

  • Deep-dive brainstorming: Together, we find the best angle for your story and highlight what makes you unique.
  • A proven narrative framework: Your essay will show the analytical thinking and persuasive writing that law schools want to see.
  • Strategic positioning: No matter if your background is traditional or unique, we will shape your story to clearly show your value to top law schools.

Full application review (All essays and materials)

Every part of your application needs to work together.

I provide in-depth feedback on every part of your application, including:

  • Content, structure, and voice: I provide detailed feedback to ensure your writing is clear, persuasive, and aligned with your overall narrative

  • Full application coverage: Personal statement, diversity statement, resume, supplemental essays, and addenda

  • Unlimited iteration: We continue refining your materials until they are polished, cohesive, and ready to submit

Law school selection and admissions strategy

Where you apply and how you position yourself for each school matters just as much as what you write.

I help you with:

  • School list strategy: Identify reach, target, and safety schools to maximize both admissions and scholarship outcomes

  • Letters of recommendation guidance: Choose the right recommenders and guide them to reinforce your narrative

  • Addenda and strategic positioning: Address lower stats or unique circumstances in a way that strengthens your application

Post-submission strategy and support

The process doesn’t end when you submit your applications.

  • Scholarship negotiation: Develop a strategy to increase merit aid and make the most of your offers

  • Interview and waitlist strategy: Prepare for interviews and stay competitive throughout the admissions cycle

  • Final decision support: Evaluate offers and choose the best law school for your long-term goals

     

Are you ready to get into your dream
law school?

Since I’m going to get to know you, here’s a little about me:

I’m a Navy-brat who married an Army guy, so nowhere and everywhere feels like home.

Moving around so much has gifted me with the ability to make lifelong friends anywhere, even on a 3-minute elevator ride. I am genuinely interested in people’s stories and have a knack for getting people to open up about themselves.

Things you won’t find on my resume.

I jumped off the highest bungee jump in the world; was a super competitive gymnast growing up; an avid yogi and yoga teacher before I had kids.

My family is my motivation.

I’m mama to three spirited, goofy, beautifully WILD children and to my OG child, Balto the German Shepherd. My family reminds me every day not to take life too seriously, to bask in the joy of the present, and that I will forever be the worst singer out there.

I always have these three things in my bag…

1. A book (typically fiction) because I’m constantly reading and you never know when you might get bored;

2. Balloons to make balloon animals (yes, even before having kids I was always prepared to entertain);

3. Snacks because hanger runs in my family!

Reviews and testimonials

I’ve helped my clients secure admission to the most prestigious law schools in the country and negotiate millions in scholarship funding. But more importantly, I’ve helped them realize that their dreams aren’t “too big.”

Read more reviews here.

My dream school felt out of reach, but I was accepted and began my 1L in the fall!

If you are looking for a law school admissions consultant, look no further than Top Law School Consulting. Mara and her team are so diligent and caring. I initially had no idea where to start with my law school admissions, but Mara walked me through the entire process. As a non-traditional K-JD’er, I was concerned about my application materials, but through our work together, we customized each application, resulting in multiple acceptances. My dream school felt out of reach, but I was accepted and began my 1L in the fall! I could not have done it without the help of Mara and the team. She was there even through the painful wait for acceptances and gave me great advice when I was waitlisted. More than the excellent work in helping with all application materials and interviews, Mara really cares. She is a wonderful person who cheered me on every step of the way and is dedicated to her clients. Law school applications can be stressful and time-consuming, but with Mara, I felt more organized and ready to start my law school journey. I could not recommend her enough! Top Law School Consulting delivers real results through its effort and dedication. Thank you again for everything!!

Diana Montanez​

TLSC helped me get into my dream law school at a Top 25 program.​

I highly recommend Top Law School Consulting! Mara and her team provided exceptional services throughout and helped me get into my dream law school at a Top 25 program. From the beginning, I was very impressed by how much Mara tried to understand me personally, my background, interests, and reasons for going to law school. She really guided me towards choosing the best personal statement angles and topics that fit my story and goals. In addition to suggesting edits herself, she assigned me an editor, who was also outstanding in her suggestions. I particularly appreciated the team’s responsiveness, always getting back to me within 24-48 hours. In addition, Mara doesn’t just settle for “good”. She pushed me to continue editing and refining my essays for weeks. My personal statement went through over 10 drafts before it looked in shape. Lastly, Mara’s extensive knowledge of the law school admissions process was invaluable. She readily answered my questions and concerns, and helped me most effectively tailor my supplemental essays to each school. Overall, I really enjoyed working with Mara and her outstanding team and wholeheartedly recommend her company.

Winston

Working with Mara at Top Law School Consulting was the best decision I could have made for myself

Working with Mara at Top Law School Consulting was the best decision I could have made for myself in my pursuit of law school admission. Her dedication to me as a client was amazing, and she was always available to guide me through what was certainly a difficult admissions year. Through everything from routine check-in calls, essay assistance, interview preparation, and calming me down from late-night application freak-outs, Mara was an absolute star. I am confident that I would not have received the quantity or quality of admissions offers this season without her help, and even more confident that I would not have received nearly as many generous scholarship offers. I would highly recommend Mara as a prospective applicant’s Law School guide and coach – she made applying to Law School a highly rewarding experience!

Lillan Styles

Law school admissions consulting: Frequently asked questions​

Is law school admissions consulting worth it?

If you’re aiming for top law schools or competitive scholarships, law school admissions consulting can make a meaningful difference in your results.

In my experience, the gap between a strong application and a strategically positioned one is often what determines whether you get accepted—or overlooked. Most applicants focus on their GPA and LSAT. What actually sets successful applications apart is how clearly and cohesively their story is presented.

My approach to law school admissions consulting is focused on helping you build that strategy, so your application reflects not just your stats, but your full potential.

Many of the applicants I work with are admitted to schools that initially felt out of reach, often with significant scholarship offers.

I work with law school applicants at different stages of the admissions process, from those just starting to plan their applications to those refining final drafts.

Many of the applicants I work with are:

  • Aiming for top law schools, including T14 programs

  • Concerned that their GPA or LSAT score may not be competitive

  • Unsure how to position their story or stand out in a crowded applicant pool

My law school admissions consulting is a strong fit if you’re looking for a strategic, personalized approach, one that goes beyond surface-level edits and focuses on how your entire application is positioned.

This goes beyond simple essay editing. I offer full law school admissions consulting.

I give detailed feedback on your writing, but my main focus is the bigger picture. I help you ensure your entire application fits together, your story stands out, and every part supports your case for admission. Most applicants already have good grammar. What they really need is a clear strategy that connects their experiences, goals, and story in a way that speaks to admissions officers.

That’s what sets apart editing just one essay from creating a strong, unified application.

Yes, many of the applicants I help worry about their GPA or LSAT scores.

Your stats are important in the law school admissions process, but they are not the only thing that matters. What often sets applicants apart is how well their strengths, experiences, and potential come across in their application.¨

In my law school admissions consulting, I focus on helping you build that strong positioning. We work together to highlight what makes you unique and present your application in a way that connects with admissions officers.

I’ve helped applicants get into top law schools even if their stats weren’t perfect, because their applications told a clear and compelling story.

Your results will depend on your background, your goals, and how competitive the law school admissions cycle is.

Still, my goal is always to help you submit the strongest and most strategic application possible. This way, you can make the most of your chances for admission and scholarships.

I have worked with applicants who got into top law schools and earned major merit scholarships, even during tough admissions cycles and without perfect stats.

I can’t promise specific results, but most of my clients get into at least one of their top-choice schools, often with scholarship offers.

When you work with me, you get my direct support. I won’t pass you off to a junior editor or a team.

My law school admissions consulting is personal and hands-on. We’ll work together closely from your first strategy session all the way to your final submission.

We use Basecamp to keep everything organized and your application moving forward. With Voxer, you get ongoing text and audio support, so you can ask questions, get feedback, and stay on track in real time.

You’re never just another file. I’m here to work with you and support you at every stage of your law school application.

Starting early gives you more flexibility and a strategic edge in the law school admissions process, especially since admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis.

Most of my clients start working with me in the spring or summer before they apply. This gives us time to create a clear strategy, strengthen your story, and put together a strong application before the deadlines.

But if you’re already partway through the application cycle, it’s not too late. I also help applicants who need focused, fast support to improve their applications and make smart choices when time is short.

Yes, I help both international applicants and non-traditional candidates, including people from non-U.S. universities or those changing careers.

When applying to law school, your background is not a disadvantage. In fact, it can be your biggest strength. The important thing is to present your experiences in a way that admissions officers will understand and appreciate.

My approach to law school admissions consulting is to help you turn your unique background into a clear, compelling story that aligns with what law schools want, while ensuring your story stays true to who you are.

Yes. Scholarship strategy is an important part of the law school admissions process—not just getting accepted, but maximizing your financial aid.

As part of my law school admissions consulting, I help you approach scholarship negotiation strategically. This includes evaluating your offers, understanding how schools make funding decisions, and positioning your application to strengthen your leverage.

If you have multiple acceptances, we’ll develop a clear plan for how to use those offers to negotiate more effectively and increase your merit-based aid.

My support doesn’t end when you submit your law school applications.

As part of my law school admissions consulting, I continue working with you through the next stages of the admissions process. This includes interview preparation, waitlist strategy, and guidance on evaluating offers and next steps.

I provide mock interviews, help you stay competitive if you’re waitlisted, and support you in making informed decisions once you receive acceptances and scholarship offers.

I also offer a “1L Kickstart” session so you can start law school with a clear plan and strong foundation—not just admitted, but prepared.

The best next step is to book a consultation.

We’ll talk through your goals, where you are in the law school admissions process, and what kind of support would be most helpful for you.

From there, I’ll let you know whether working together is the right fit and what the next steps would look like.

Learn more about the law school admissions process​

If you want to better understand how law school admissions works, these resources will help you go deeper.

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