Maryland vs. American Forum

[bigredforlaw]

I'm still waiting to hear from a number of schools, but I'm wondering what I should do if it comes down to Maryland vs. American. I love DC and want to eventually work/live there, but I know American is kind of out of the way and Maryland is all the way in Baltimore. I'm not in-state for Maryland but am a finalist for the Legal Scholars Program for a potential scholarship. Either way, money is not my main concern. I want to study Intellectual Property, possibly patent/tech law (I have a science background), and am considering a dual JD/MPP degree. Biglaw is appealing but I wouldn't be devastated if I lost out there (realistic for these schools) since I am interested in some sort of public policy job for the future, maybe government.

So, which school has a better policy and/or IP program? Which has better connections in DC? And how do the quality of life compare at each school?

[YankeesFan]

Maryland is cheaper. So Maryland.

[bigredforlaw]

I'm asking Maryland vs. American without considering tuition costs. Money's not an issue and Maryland's only slightly cheaper than American anyway.

[AboveTheLawSchool]

Do NOT choose a school because of their rankings in specific programs....they do not matter.

And American places better in DC, by far. Only go to Maryland if you want to work in Baltimore.

Also, you realize American is located in DC, right?

[src42]

I went to American for an MPP, and the program was pretty decent--better than Maryland anyway. You can get a solid job in government or a non-profit with a JD/MPP from AU. The campus is really nice too, and in a great part of DC. It takes about 30 minutes to get there via metro from downtown DC. Since money doesn't seem to be an issue, you should pick AU.

[AreJay711]

I'd say MD because it is the best school for Baltimore and the rest of MD whereas American is not the best for DC and the rest of the t14 all want to go to DC. You might be able to get into DC with high enough grades from UMD and there is a better chance you will at least have some legal job.

[bigredforlaw]

Anymore input out there? I was in a Maryland accepted students chat today and am definitely not the only one trying to choose between Maryland and American. Much appreciated!

[DeeCee]

Anymore input out there? I was in a Maryland accepted students chat today and am definitely not the only one trying to choose between Maryland and American. Much appreciated!

I think this totally depends on your aim. Do you want a better shot at DC placement? Go to American. They are both ranked equally so I think this really comes down to where you are trying to work after graduation and how much money you are trying to save (UMD is cheaper), and where you feel more comfortable spending 3 years of your life.

[pixytree]

If your primary concern is money, go to Maryland. If your primary concern is DC job prospects, go to American. American is not out of the way. It's not downtown or anthing, but it's a very active area.