California: Hastings vs. higher ranked, out of state schools
Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2012 3:06 pm
Hey Everyone,
Been pulling my hair out for weeks over this decision. Total cost of attendance for the schools I am interested in are all relatively close, within about ~$30k total except for GW. I didn't get any big scholarships except for WUSTL but I don't have much interest in being or practicing in the mid-west.
Here's the list:
Hastings
UCI
University of Washington
WUSTL
GW
BU
Wildcard: wait list for UCLA
I would love to work in the Bay Area immediately after graduation but would be willing to stay a few years in Seattle/Boston/SoCal if necessary. GW costs the most by far, so I'm ruling out >200k debt. I grew up in the Bay Area, so I assume that my ties are strong enough. I plan on networking this summer as well before heading off to wherever that may be.
My decision ultimately hinges on whether the local advantage of Hastings is better than a higher ranked school with better employment numbers. While I love the Bay Area, I wouldn't want to be here unemployed. ~30% of grads from Hastings work PT or are unemployed. So, costs being equal, Hastings versus UW/BU/UCI is proving a very difficult decision.
Assume I am not retaking the LSAT and re-applying next year. I may re-apply but my decision to do so would be entirely personal. Any and all input is seriously appreciated. I've spoken to alumni/3Ls from various schools and I'm still completely stuck.
Been pulling my hair out for weeks over this decision. Total cost of attendance for the schools I am interested in are all relatively close, within about ~$30k total except for GW. I didn't get any big scholarships except for WUSTL but I don't have much interest in being or practicing in the mid-west.
Here's the list:
Hastings
UCI
University of Washington
WUSTL
GW
BU
Wildcard: wait list for UCLA
I would love to work in the Bay Area immediately after graduation but would be willing to stay a few years in Seattle/Boston/SoCal if necessary. GW costs the most by far, so I'm ruling out >200k debt. I grew up in the Bay Area, so I assume that my ties are strong enough. I plan on networking this summer as well before heading off to wherever that may be.
My decision ultimately hinges on whether the local advantage of Hastings is better than a higher ranked school with better employment numbers. While I love the Bay Area, I wouldn't want to be here unemployed. ~30% of grads from Hastings work PT or are unemployed. So, costs being equal, Hastings versus UW/BU/UCI is proving a very difficult decision.
Assume I am not retaking the LSAT and re-applying next year. I may re-apply but my decision to do so would be entirely personal. Any and all input is seriously appreciated. I've spoken to alumni/3Ls from various schools and I'm still completely stuck.