I have an international GPA (round up to 3.6), and the LSAC transcript evaluation was only "above average". I have a STEM PhD from a top US engineering school and work experience in a law firm. I also think acing the LSAT is important. I got into Berkeley ...
I'm not sure how they would regard that, if it would be considered a soft or not, but it certainly is wonderful opportunity for an unusual & creative personalstatement if nothing else. Good luck!
I did not write about why I wanted to go to law school in my personalstatement. I got more scholarship money than I thought I would from multiple schools (based on my GPA & LSAT). It's not necessary.
I've had my personalstatement drafted for months already. And I'm also applying ASAP (as soon as apps open up) in September. I have one LOR writer already lined up as well.