Top Law Schools

memoryl0ss wrote:First time poster, long time reader. All of my apps were before Nov. 1

So I have gotten into a couple of DNCG with one at a 10,000 scholarship and the other TBD but based on last cycle I expect about the same 10,0000.

I have also been admitted to Seton Hall with a free ride. Originally from Jersey, wouldn't mind going back there and the school is well respected in the state.

I am currently waiting for University of Washington (Seattle) and University of Colorado. Based on my calculations from last cycle, I'd get about 50% from both, possible more from Colorado. These schools appeal to me as being the top schools in their respective regions.

Other considerations:

1. My first year living expenses will not be borrowed, I plan on burning through my savings
2. I know DNCG gives me the most options. I am torn between prosecutor somewhere v. law firms. If I decide firm is the way I go before May 1 this discussion will be a moot point.
3. I have been to Washington and Colorado and love the areas. Been to one of DNCG and loved the area. The other will be visited in February. So I could see myself living in any of the above for the foreseeable future
4. With my calculations (just done quickly in my head) my debt load will be (not taking grants into consideration which should be considerable considering unemployed as of June 26, same day I got my LSAT back haha):
DNCG: $150,000 (less grants)
Wash and Colo: $70,000- $90,000 depending on exact scholly amount
Seton: Less than $40,000, perhaps as low as $20,000

So short of T14 or bust, which is how my ego is leaning, what is everyone's opinion?
PS: Would it make a difference if I swear I am going to work harder than everyone else and finish in the top 1% of my class because no one will work as hard? thought I may as well end with sarcasm

Knock wrote:I'd take U. Washington half-ride. But I agree, a lot depends where you want to practice and end up living.

memoryl0ss wrote:

Knock wrote:I'd take U. Washington half-ride. But I agree, a lot depends where you want to practice and end up living.

For arguments sake, let me say that I am truly open to where I want to live. In theory, I have no problem living and working in any of the areas (Rockies, PNW, NJ, NYC)

While I do have a preference, I would like to see what other's think taking that element out. I don't want to bias anyone's thought process. So where I want to live will play a part in my final discussion for it is subjective. But from an objective standpoint, everything else being equal, what would everyone choose?

tkgrrett wrote:For 70-90k at the T1?? Thats enough debt that I would call this one for most liked DNCG and not close. Unless you specifically want to work in seattle or portland.

memoryl0ss wrote:

tkgrrett wrote:For 70-90k at the T1?? Thats enough debt that I would call this one for most liked DNCG and not close. Unless you specifically want to work in seattle or portland.

I can see your reasoning (edit: especially with the lack of a serious LRAP). So what would be considered a reasonable debt load in your opinion?