amissionsix wrote:Sounds like I am in almost the same situation, except that I want to practice in San Francisco. I'm from LA and living/working in San Diego right now. Decision was USC ($0), Hastings ($63K), and USD ($90K). And the Hastings $$ doesn't have any ranking stips. Because I want to be in the Bay Area I picked Hastings, but if you want to be in SoCal I would definitely go to USC. If you are 100% committed to San Diego USD can be a solid choice if you do well, but USC will open many more doors.
Wow. We really are opposites! In your case, I definitely agree that Hastings is probably your best option, especially since all you have to do is continue demonstrating need, which shouldn't change. USC could also get you there, but it would be much more expensive. Was finances/location your primary deciding factors?
I've toured and extensively researched USC, but something isn't clicking. I fear that I am making myself dislike it because I can't swallow being that far in debt. Surprisingly, I really liked USD when I toured there, but I don't like having to risk my scholarship on class ranking. I work hard, but I'm not so self-assured that I am willing to bet $60,000 of additional debt for its prospects if I lose it.
My husband is applying for a job at USC that will give me tuition benefits. If he gets it, my decision will likely be made for me. Hopefully at that time I can reassess USC in a more favorable light.
Either way, I feel somewhat comfortable.