170/4.05 (ED to Columbia?) Forum

[nids333]

I scored a 170 on the LSAT and have a 4.05 GPA. I'm strongly considering early decisioning to Columbia. I want to practice corporate law, and that is one of the major reasons why I'm interested in Columbia. However, I am positive that I want to practice in Chicago. This is the main reason why I'm wavering with the early decision choice.

Should I early decision to Columbia?

I really appreciate your feedback, thanks!

[bhan87]

Don't ED. Your shots are already pretty decent submitting RD (just get them in early). The loss of not being able to negotiate financial aid is much greater than the small boost you get from ED. Also, have you considered UChicago (because you're positive on practicing in Chicago)? They have a slightly lower LSAT range, so I'd imagine you'd be a lock there as long as you submit early. Depending on your profile, NU might send you big $$.

[nids333]

Thanks for your feedback! As for UChicago, what I have heard from a few friends/current students decreased my interest in the school. I really don't like how steep the curve is and heard their undergrad motto "Where fun goes to die" applies to the law school as well.

[bhan87]

Thanks for your feedback! As for UChicago, what I have heard from a few friends/current students decreased my interest in the school. I really don't like how steep the curve is and heard their undergrad motto "Where fun goes to die" applies to the law school as well.

Ah fair enough Plugged in some numbers to LSN to find applicants in your range (169-171 and 3.9+)

http://columbia.lawschoolnumbers.com/ap ... ,7&type=jd

Looks like it's a 50-50 shot between acceptance and waitlist at Columbia, but not too many people in your range get flat-rejected.

Also, looking at NYU, you seem to be a pretty safe lock:

http://nyu.lawschoolnumbers.com/applica ... ,7&type=jd

[berkeleykel06]

I wouldn't let the curve affect your decision since firms go so deep into the class at UChicago regardless of the curve.

Your numbers put you in position for getting at least one of CCN, money from MVP, a chance at HYS, and a full ride from Northwestern. Those are a lot of potential options you'd be foregoing with an ED.

[LaCumparsita]

Hey numbers twin! I have a 170/4.06 I agree that you/we shouldn't ED to Columbia (I was wondering the same thing the other day! How funny!) According to Law School Predictor, we have a 63% chance of getting into Columbia, which is pretty good without the ED. And you lose scholarship leverage. Of course, if Columbia is your first-choice school, I think you have a really good chance of getting in ED.

[ndirish2010]

You're there for a professional degree not to have fun. Go to Chicago.

[nids333]

Thanks for everyone's advice! I agree there are a lot of caveats to early decisioning at Columbia. After looking into it more the costs of early decisioning out weigh the benefits. Hopefully I will get in with RD and can consider it further at that point.

LaCumparsita we will have to watch other's cycles. Best of luck to you and everyone else applying this year!

As for the professional degree comment, the characteristics of the student body is a significant factor. These are the people that are going to help you build your network. "Fun" doesn't necessarily mean getting drunk/partying, it can mean being social in other capacities. These are the people who are going to be spending the next three years of your life with. Personally, I think it is important to consider this factor.

[LaCumparsita]

Yes, I will be watching your cycle. Best of luck to you too!