Is an Expensive Elite School More Valuable Than a Reasonable State College for Aspiring Law Students?
When considering educational paths for aspiring law students, the question often arises: is attending an expensive elite school more valuable than a more reasonable state college? The answer, in a concise form, is no. Law schools prioritize grades and LSAT scores over the prestige of the undergraduate institution.
Short Answer: No.
Our experience with a student who attended a small liberal arts college, achieving all As, and securing admission to an Ivy League law school underscores this point. This student, graduating this May, will begin with an annual salary of over $300,000. This case study illustrates a key takeaway: what you do at your university counts more than where you do it. Our company firmly believes that it is not the college you attend but your activities and performance within it that truly matter.
Understanding the Cost Factor
The sticker price for a school, listed under “Tuition” on its website, may bear little or no resemblance to your actual cost of attendance. Therefore, the crucial factor is what the school is charging you compared to the default tuition rate.
Notably, "elite" and "expensive for you" are not synonymous. I gained admission to two T-6 schools that would charge less than a couple of T-14 schools I applied to. What differentiates elite schools is their tendency to have more funding, which translates to more financial aid. Hence, tuition costs aren't a major concern during the application process; you won't know your actual cost until you are accepted and informed by the school.
After Admission: When Cost Matters
Once you are admitted, the financial aspects become more significant. Whether it's "worth it" depends on your individual circumstances.
Defining "Elite" and "Reasonable State Colleges"
Elite School: For instance, Harvard or Yale might be considered elite due to their financial aid packages, which are quite generous. If we're considering Notre Dame, a great institution, the decision becomes more nuanced based on the individual's aspirations. Reasonable State College: If the option is between UT and Cornell and the state college is much cheaper, it might be a compelling reason to choose the state college.How Your Future Plans Influence the Decision
Major Considerations:
Your Aspirations: If your dream is to work at a prestigious law firm like Davis Polk in New York City, attending a more prestigious school might be beneficial. In such cases, student debt might not be a major concern if you secure a well-paying position. The Impact of Graduate Studies: If your career path is more focused on public defense work in Alabama, attending a less expensive state college with potentially lower debt could be a smart choice.Advice for Aspiring Law Students
Don't Prioritize Sticker Price: When applying, focus on what you can achieve and what you can contribute during your undergraduate studies. Plan for Your Future: Have a clear idea of your post-graduate career goals to make informed decisions. Go for the Best Fit: If you get into a prestigious university, consider the other benefits it offers and make the most of the experience.Ultimately, the decision to attend an expensive elite school versus a reasonable state college for law school depends on your individual aspirations, financial situation, and long-term career goals. While an excellent undergraduate education is beneficial, what you do in college and how it aligns with your future plans are critical factors.