How big a difference?

[NYC2013]

I know Columbia typically places more in the elite law firms but do you think going to Columbia would put me at an advantage over NYU? If I were to like NYU's atmosphere a lot more, would I be giving up anything significant career-wise going to NYU or is performance in law school more important?

[legends159]

performance will be more important

CLS gives you higher lay prestige and may place better outside NYC all else being equal. Of course all else won't be equal if you'll be happier at NYU