Top Law Schools

Quick run down on my background... I just graduated with a bachelors in petroleum engineering with a 3.25 GPA (the average at our school is a 3.04 at graduation). I showed a significant upward trend with my last years GPA being over a 3.8. I am about to start my job next week working in the natural gas industry in Arkansas. I am of Sri Lankan background which I do not think is of any help in admissions but I am unsure. I got a 166 on Sept 09 (missed 9 on RC) and 173 on June 10 (missed 1 on RC, which was my X factor).

I am very interested in attending law school if not for the 2011-2012, probably for the 2012-2013. I am planning on working so I can save up some money for the ridiculously expensive cost of attending. I also want to travel for a year/maybe teach english abroad before I start. So I have a couple of questions:

1) I am interested in going to law school purely for the education and I am really unsure if I see myself being a "lawyer" in the future. I'm stuck between opting for the lower ranked schools which I could potentially get large scholarships on an already low tuition or trying for T14 despite the fact of the 50k tuition prices. I know this has been discussed immensely but what are all your thoughts? I'm hesistant to attend a lower ranked school because what if I go to law school and decide that I want to be a lawyer? I honestly can't justify whatsoever paying 50k a year and graduating 150k in debt for any type of schooling. I'm honestly purely interested in gaining the education.

2) When does my LSAT score become diluted where it won't be accepted for applications? I've heard 3-5 years tossed around but realistically is it more around 2 years?

3) I have to ask the inevitable question of what are my chances: I'm a Virginia resident, UVA is at the top of my list despite costs. What are my chances? Do I need to ED, I also noticed they took down an ED deadline? Can I defer if accepted and also are there any scholarship chances?

The other schools of interest are UT (based on their lower tuition rates and I would live there for a year prior to enrolling), UPenn, SMU, OU (I grew up in Oklahoma and attended university there), CU (beautiful), Michigan, and Georgetown.

My choice is really weighed heavily by geographical location. UVA was incredible. I'm honestly looking for the best education I can get at the lowest cost in the case that I end up not following a career in law to not worry about debt. Will I have scholarship chances at any of these schools and what are my chances?

I have read through these forums on a daily basis and I appreciate the help everyone provides (ass-kisser). Look forward to your replies.

-SS

Personally, I don't think going to law school purely for its educational value will be worth it. From what I hear, it is a very trying time and I hardly can see the motivation if you don't want to practice. But that's just me. Are you planning on doing anything with your degree or just want it on a CV? With this oil spill, you might be in a good position given your credentials...?

As far as UVA is concerned, I think you have a good shot. ED would probably get you admitted.

I'm Indian and I think I got a little URM boost. As long as you show them it distinguishes you from other candidates besides being brown.

HTH.

oh, check out lawschoolpredictor.com and see your chances...

With your numbers you have a shot to get a full ride at some good schools. If you want to stay in VA, George Mason will probably offer you a good amount of money. Even if they dont, its still pretty inexpensive. You'll get a good education and in the scenario that you decide to practice, you'll have the DC market right in front of you.

Good luck!