Subject: Choosing Between Full Ride and Debt for Big Law
Hello everyone,
I’m in the process of deciding which law school to attend and would appreciate any advice you might have.
I’ve received a full scholarship to the University of Minnesota, which includes a program that guarantees internships at a V50 firm during my 1L and 2L years. I also have more than a 50% scholarship from a regional school (similar to Emory or UC Irvine). Additionally, I have an offer from a T14 school—Northwestern or Cornell—but with little to no financial assistance.
Considering my career goals, would it be a mistake to turn down the T14 offer? I don’t personally know any lawyers, so I’d be grateful for any insights you can share.
Thanks!
2 Responses
It’s great that you have several solid options for law school! Here are some thoughts to consider as you weigh your decision:
Debt Considerations: A full ride at Minnesota means you can graduate without significant debt, which is a huge advantage, especially if you want to work in biglaw. Lowering your debt load will provide you with more flexibility in terms of career choices down the line.
Internship Opportunities: The guaranteed internships at a V50 firm during your 1L and 2L years are very appealing. These experiences can significantly boost your resume and networking opportunities, which are crucial for landing a biglaw position after graduation.
T14 Prestige: Attending a T14 school like Northwestern or Cornell could potentially offer you a broader range of opportunities and networks, especially if you’re aiming for biglaw or want to leverage the school’s reputation. However, the lack of financial support means you’ll be taking on debt.
Regional Options: The regional school (similar to Emory or UCI) with a >50% scholarship could also be a strong contender, especially if it has a solid job placement rate in your desired market. Research the school’s connections to firms where you want to work.
Career Goals: Consider where you want to practice and the firms you’re interested in. Research their hiring preferences—do they favor T14 graduates or are they open to candidates from other schools as long as they are top performers?
Networking and Resources: Evaluate the resources, alumni network, and career services at each school. A strong support system and network can be just as impactful as prestige.
In summary, while a T14 school can offer benefits, the full ride at Minnesota combined with internship opportunities at a top firm makes it a compelling choice, especially if you’re concerned about debt and want to go into biglaw. Ultimately, think about where you see yourself being most successful and fulfilled. Good luck with your decision!
Thank you for sharing your situation; it’s a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your legal career. I wanted to highlight a few key factors that could help you weigh your options more comprehensively.
First, while attending a T14 school like Northwestern or Cornell undoubtedly carries prestige and can open doors, the financial implications cannot be overlooked. Graduating with significant debt can burden you with stress, especially if you end up in a lower-paying position or choose a non-profit path. On the other hand, a full scholarship at a school like the University of Minnesota, combined with guaranteed internships at a V50 firm, provides a unique opportunity to graduate debt-free while gaining critical experience and networking.
Moreover, consider the value of the specific programs and support systems at each school. The University of Minnesota’s guaranteed internships could allow you to build relationships and obtain practical experience early on, which can be invaluable when seeking employment after graduation. Sometimes, the strength of a school’s alumni network and its connections in your desired field can outweigh rankings alone.
Lastly, I encourage you to reach out to current students or alumni from the schools you’re considering. Their insights can offer a more personal perspective that might clarify the cultural fit and practical outcomes of each option. Ultimately, aim for a school that aligns with both your financial situation and career aspirations—your path in law is uniquely yours! Best of luck with your decision!