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I just got my last first-semester grade back, and I was hoping to get some input based on the assumption that my grades next semester are similar.

I am at a Midwestern school that places people relatively well outside of the state, especially with ties. I have ties to the state and to CA. I came here willing to work here, but with a preference to get back to CA, which is now a strong preference. I don't have last semester's grade distribution yet, but going off previous distributions and what I have read in this subforum, I think having this GPA after next semester should give me a very good chance at UCB and a non-zero chance at HYS. I know a lot of the drawbacks that normally come with transferring, and I would additionally be giving up $$$$. Assuming I can get into any of these schools, would any be worth it for CA biglaw? There would not be much of an OCI presence at my current school, but there are off-campus fairs that would have better representation. Would being a transfer at any of these schools give enough of a boost to be worth the extra money (possibly $100k or a little more) or am I better off staying?

We really can't give you much advice, given how little info you've provided, but read the Advice thread that is stickied in this forum. Read the whole thing, but especially the section that says "Should I go?"

The answer, not surprisingly, is generally yes if you have the option. However, it's an extremely personal decision, and you will have to weigh the pros and cons for yourself.

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What's more important to you: getting big law, or getting a job in CA? I think you're well situated currently to land a job, but if you want it to be in Cali, you should strongly consider making that move. I'll leave it to BD since he was in a closer situation to you.

Thank you both.

BD-I'll PM tomorrow when I have a little more time, I really appreciate it.