Is a lower-end T1 really that bad? Forum

[j.wellington]

I know I'm probably just setting the stage for a bunch of snide remarks, and I'm aware that a site called "Top Law Schools" is naturally going to draw the more ambitious set of applicants, but I've been coming across more gloom-and-doom commentary and I guess it's starting to get to me. Before I found this place I was pretty comfortable with going to law school and the options that my 3.5/165 would get me, but surfing around here makes me think I'm about to throw my life away because I'm not going to Harvard. So I'll ask: If I'm looking at a top-50 school with regional clout, am perfectly fine being in that region, don't plan on more than $70K of loans and don't expect to make six figures anytime soon, is law school really such a terrible life decision? Is it really T14 or a cardboard box?

[bobo11111111111]

As long as you plan on staying in that region, you should be ok.

I think it depends on the person though. You seem fine with the debt and your potential income.

[r6_philly]

On 1% of LSAT takers score a 172+. Only 1% of candidates attend HYS (I am not sure if this is precise). More than 1% people have successful careers, and going to a 1% school doesn't guarantee success. If you are a willing to work hard toward your goals, you will always have a chance to succeed. Going to the best schools does increase your chance somewhat, but it is not necessary. If you can't/don't want to go to a T14, there is nothing that stops you from getting to the top of your class and succeeding nonetheless

[quetzalcoatl]

If you go to a T1 school, which you will with a 165, you will be fine (given you, as you said, are not expecting 6 figures and are not taking on a ton of debt).

Keep your expectations realistic. In my opinion, going less than top 50 (assuming no $$$) is a mistake.