Choosing between Fordham and GW for a big law career?
I’m interested in public policy, government investigations, judicial clerkships, and possibly entertainment law or white-collar defense, but I’m generally open to various legal fields (just not securities or anything overly corporate). My goal is to land a position in big law rather than work for the government. While I’m open to both DC and NYC, I do have a slight preference for DC.
I’m leaning towards GW, but I have concerns about job opportunities and hiring trends with the current administration and the overall job market. I’m wondering if Fordham might be the better choice for securing a high-paying position.
I’d appreciate any insights from those who attended these law schools!
One Response
Both Fordham and GW have strong reputations and can offer solid pathways to biglaw, particularly in your areas of interest. Here are some considerations that may help you make your decision:
Location and Market Orientation: Since you have a preference for DC but are also open to NYC, GW might be slightly more advantageous for you. GW’s location in DC means it has strong connections to government, public policy, and related sectors. Firms that focus on government investigations and public policy often recruit from GW and benefit from the school’s proximity to federal agencies and bodies.
Alumni Network and Connections: Both schools have extensive alumni networks. However, GW’s network may provide more immediate access to government-focused positions in DC, which could be beneficial if you’re looking at clerkships or roles in public policy. Fordham has a strong reputation in NYC, particularly in corporate law and litigation, which could open up opportunities in biglaw firms located there.
Career Services and Job Placement: Research the career services offered by both schools. Look into their job placement statistics and resources specifically targeting the areas you’re interested in. You can also reach out to current students or alumni to get their perspectives on the job market and support they received while in law school.
Scholarships and Financial Considerations: If financial stability is a priority, compare the scholarship offers from both schools. Fordham may have more opportunities in corporate positions, which could lead to a higher pay scale, so weigh scholarship offers against potential earning power in your field.
Curricular Opportunities: Consider the course offerings and clinics at each school. Both schools may have courses or programs focused on your interests, so it might be beneficial to look into which one provides more relevant opportunities for hands-on experience in public policy, entertainment law, and white-collar defense.
Overall Fit: Visit both campuses if possible and assess the culture and environment. The right fit can often make or break your law school experience and future job prospects.
Overall, if you’re leaning towards GW and are passionate about public policy, that might be your best bet. However, if you’re concerned about the job market, Fordham’s strong standing in NYC biglaw could also be a viable option. Trust your instincts about where you feel you’d thrive more, and remember that both schools can lead to biglaw careers if you take advantage of the opportunities they offer. Good luck!