UMN (full-ride) vs. ND ($) vs. UW vs. W&M ($) vs GW for IP Forum

[cotiger]

You're underestimating your debt at ND, WM, and WF. Remember that there are tuition increases and interest on the loans. At graduation, you should expect your debt loads at those three to be approximately: $135,000 at Notre Dame; $90,000 at William&Mary; and $70,000 at Wake Forest.

[TTRansfer]

GW 3L here.

Just about everyone I know doing patent stuff (with an actual degree behind it -- not just wanting to do it without a science degree) is employed. As mentioned by some, GW's patent program is legit. I'm sure you'll get money from them, too.

[rpupkin]

GW 3L here.

Just about everyone I know doing patent stuff (with an actual degree behind it -- not just wanting to do it without a science degree) is employed. As mentioned by some, GW's patent program is legit. I'm sure you'll get money from them, too.

+1

GW really is an excellent choice if you have a useful science degree and want to work in patent law. What GW generally can't do for you (in contrast to Stanford and Berkeley) is give you a solid shot at patent lit without a science degree. But that's not your situation.

I think it would be worth it to pay slightly more to attend GW over UMN, though the additional value of GW isn't worth anything close to sticker price at GW; I think I'd want at least a 75% scholly from there before I would consider turning down a 100% scholly from UMN.

[anna8506]

GW if they give you $$ or if money doesn't matter. I went to GW (2012 grad) and work in big law firm doing patent litigation. Your goals will be best met at GW but cost may be a factor. I had a similar decision and chose GW at full sticker because money mattered less to me than quality of life. DC beats Minneapolis, St. Louis, etc. You will have to decide if this matters to you. Three years is a long time.

Good point and I do love DC. I will get back to GW and ask them for scholly money. However, money is a concern to me and I will not attend GW at the sticker.

[anna8506]

GW 3L here.

Just about everyone I know doing patent stuff (with an actual degree behind it -- not just wanting to do it without a science degree) is employed. As mentioned by some, GW's patent program is legit. I'm sure you'll get money from them, too.

+1

GW really is an excellent choice if you have a useful science degree and want to work in patent law. What GW generally can't do for you (in contrast to Stanford and Berkeley) is give you a solid shot at patent lit without a science degree. But that's not your situation.

I think it would be worth it to pay slightly more to attend GW over UMN, though the additional value of GW isn't worth anything close to sticker price at GW; I think I'd want at least a 75% scholly from there before I would consider turning down a 100% scholly from UMN.

You two raised very solid points and I do prefer to work at the coasts if possible. Thank you! I will get back with more detailed info when I have it.

[anna8506]

You're underestimating your debt at ND, WM, and WF. Remember that there are tuition increases and interest on the loans. At graduation, you should expect your debt loads at those three to be approximately: $135,000 at Notre Dame; $90,000 at William&Mary; and $70,000 at Wake Forest.

Understood... changing them now.

[anna8506]

IP at GW is legit unlike most specialties. Find out to what extent GW is willing to compete on price and get back to us.

OK. I will. Thank you.