Choosing a Law School
Geographic Factors
Separate from the economic factor, but closely allied to it, is the geographic factor. Two overlapping considerations make up the bulk of this factor.
The first of these is the acceptability of the law school location with regard to climate, distance from home, availability of recreational and cultural facilities, etc. The law schools of the Universities of Michigan and Chicago are generally considered among the most prestigious in the country, but they may hold little attraction for the native Arizonan or Californian who might accept a less prestigious school in order to escape the rigors of northern midwest winters. Similarly, someone who detests the frantic pace of big-city life is likely to reject highly regarded Columbia in New York City for a school with a less prestigious academic record but one which touts a more relaxed atmosphere.
The community environment can also play a large role in your success and happiness during law school. Consider visiting the schools on your short list to see first hand the campus facilities and nearby neighborhoods where you will be living and working.
Closely allied with the above factors is the applicant's perception of where he or she wishes to practice upon completion of law school. For the select few who gain entrance to the most prestigious law schools and graduate in the top half of their respective classes, obtaining a position after law school will not present much of a problem. For most students, however, the opportunity to make contacts and begin part-time or summer employment in law firms while still in law school will be an important step toward obtaining a satisfactory position subsequent to graduation. Thus, those who wish to work in Los Angeles, New York, or Washington, DC, would do well to look closely at law schools within or very near those cities.