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Choosing which schools to apply to can be a daunting task in and of itself, even before beginning to consider the numerous components of your application. So, what’s important in deciding what schools to apply to? Hopefully, this list will give you an idea of how to start your search, and help you figure out which factors are important to you.
- Location
Do you know where you’d like to begin your career after graduating from law school? If so, it’s important to aim for a school in that area to boost your network of local alumni connections. That’s not to say it’s impossible to attend law school in New York and find a job in California. However, unless you’re in a very small percentage of students attending “elite” institutions, your law school may have a great regional reputation that will benefit your employment prospects locally.
- Specialized Programs
Having an idea of what law you want to focus on can be a good way to narrow your law school search. For example, if you know you are interested in family law and child advocacy, explore schools with strong programs in that area, including clinics and concentrations. Or, if you are interested in pursing a joint degree, make sure that schools you are applying to offer that program. Be sure to check requirements for being accepted into the specific program that interests you.
- Campus and Atmosphere
If it’s possible, visit the schools to which you’re applying. Get a feel for the campus and the people on it, including current students. Sit in on classes if you are able, to see if the school feels like a good fit for you. Don’t be afraid to approach students to questions about their experiences, keeping in mind that every school you consider will have its own unique pros and cons.
- Faculty
In law school, your professors will be one of your greatest resources. Research them before you apply: Are there faculty who specialize in the area that interests you? What is the student to faculty ratio? Smaller class sizes result in more individualized attention and a better chance of your professors knowing you and recognizing your hard work. Have the faculty published notable papers in their respective fields?
- Library
As Cornell students, we are no strangers to great libraries! Continuing into law school, you will most likely spend a large amount of time studying there. Check out the libraries to see how big they are, if they have adequate space for individual and group study, and what the hours are for the reference desk. Additionally, though all libraries are mandated by the ABA to have publications necessary for the study of law, find out which resources the library has, as well as how many copies are available in print and online.
- Student Journals
Writing for a journal can be an asset to your legal education and subsequent career in law. Look into how many journals a school has, what their requirements are to join, and the process of becoming a student editor. If you are very interested in being on a journal, be sure that you attend a school where this is likely. For example, if a school has only one journal and it is highly selective, your chances of being accepted may not be as high as if you attend a school with several journals.
- Employment
Hopefully, at the end of three years you will have a job that both interests you and puts to use the skills you’ve gained at law school. However, a fulfilling job won’t just fall into your lap. You will need to consult with career advisers and take advantage of other resources along the way in order to find your way to a career. Do the schools to which you’re applying to have a high rate of employment after graduation? Do employers recruit on campus? If so, are these the types of employers that interest you? Equally as important, check the rate of students who pass the Bar exam after attending that school.
- Cost
While cost and debt are perhaps the least fun to talk about, law school is a huge investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Look into which schools are likely to give merit or need-based aid and under what circumstances these are awarded. Is one school’s merit scholarship difficult to maintain after the first year? Does another school’s need based aid overshadow scholarships at other schools? Carefully consider each option’s cost and weight it against the benefits and employment prospects.
- Reputation
This is last on the list because it could be considered one of the least consequential factors. While acceptance to a “top-tier” or highly ranked law school is undoubtedly a large psychological reward for hard work throughout your undergraduate education, considering the rest of the factors on this list should be first and foremost. Keep in mind that ranking is just a number—but the experiences, opportunities, and connections you’ll make in law school will stay with you for a lifetime and can’t be quantified.
These factors certainly do not comprise an exhaustive list! As you start your law school search and narrow the list of schools to apply to, remember that the school you choose is where you will spend three years of your life. Be open to schools you never thought you’d like, and don’t be afraid to apply to a school you don’t think is within your reach. You never know what could happen!
For more information:
Link to US News Article on Picking the Right Law School