UCLA ($$$) vs. UVa ($$) - Plan to work in Cali Forum

[USCbusinessgrad]

Hey everybody, I could use some input because I might not have much time to make my decision.

I have a pretty nice offer from UCLA that brings my total cost of attendance (including living expenses) to around 120k.

This week I was accepted off the waitlist at University of Virginia, and they have offered me less money. The total COA would be around 167k.

I've grown up in Southern California and plan to work here after graduation. I have a business undergrad degree, and I might not want to work as a lawyer forever, so less debt is good. However, UVa could be a more enjoyable law school experience (better teachers, etc.) and might get me a better job after graduation/open more doors in the future.

I'll make a poll, but I also appreciate any advice in the comments. Thanks!

[FinallyGoing]

Have you exhausted your ability to negotiate?

[USCbusinessgrad]

Hey just as an update for future readers, I chose UCLA after talking to a handful of current lawyers in California. The consensus is that both are good schools, but UCLA is where you need to be for networking (and convenience). There isn't necessarily an advantage to attending most t14 schools if you want to come back to Los Angeles. The obvious exceptions are HYS and probably Columbia.

Edit: Since making this poll, I also turned down NYU and Duke for the same reasons

[hiltopp01]

Good job, Winslow

[CalAlumni]

Congrats! Have fun at UCLA...it's an amazing school!