If you aren't sure you like big cities, NYC is probably not the best place to test whether you do.mccracal wrote:Thanks for the responses!
Believe it or not, I actually understand that law school is a professional endeavor, which is why I'm talking about choosing between two different top 10 law schools, and not UChicago and some third-tier "fun" school. Based on employment data, the only clear advantage that UChicago seemed to even have was its Biglaw placement, which, as I mentioned, isn't all that significant to me. Considering that both schools have virtually identical clerkship numbers (and that UVA has much higher rates of employment in public interest/government-related jobs), I'm not sure why some of y'all found it so baffling that overall quality of life would be a relevant factor in my decision process.
Also, I did apply to Stanford, but I haven't heard back yet. Even if I get in, I don't anticipate getting any need-based aid, so it'd be hard to justify going there.
Anyway, I edited my original post to include this info, but I found out like an hour ago that I was also awarded full-tuition at NYU— they definitely have a lot more visible opportunities for public interest/international work, and NYU seems to be in a really cool part of NYC, but they don't seem to place as well in the Southeast/California, their clerkship numbers aren't as high, and I'm concerned NYC might be overwhelming for someone who isn't used to big cities. Any input?
Also, doesnt the Rubenstein come with a decent sized stipend? Therefore shouldn't Chicago still be cheaper? Also Chicago is still better suited for what you want assuming clerkship is important to you.
Regardless, you seem to have some kind of mental block w.r.t. UChicago. If you absolutely can't stand being with those nerds in Chicago for 3 years, then go ahead and take NYU.
ETA: NYC is expensive, especially when you have to live around NYU.