For NYU and Columbia Why X's, what I hear is that they kinda already know why people want them so it might be redundant to add an additional document on this, but if you have a really compelling reason to write one, don't hold back.
They won't be bothered by the 169 if you have a higher score. Right now, you've got about a coin toss chance (according to lsn) at the lower T14. A 173 would give you a solid shot at NYU and Columbia, and a slight chance at HYS and Chicago
... in to UCLA. Maybe not NYU which honestly sounds like your ... to new york to attend nyu law anyway. Like $300,000 ... you go to Yale, Harvard, NYU, Columbia, etc and enjoy legal writing ...
As for NYU, it just isn't happening ... is gonna get in to NYU. It is 1000% my dream ... honestly tell me Columbia would be more likely than NYU, but even ...