Knowing What's Important to You - How to Choose the Right Law School

Attempting to choose a law school that meets all of your needs and wants can be an overwhelming experience. The process of sorting through brochures, U.S. News school ratings, and the advice of friends and teachers can lead you perplexed and often less clear regarding the correct decision. As selecting a school will undoubtedly play a huge role in the path of your career and your life, it's important to choose wisely. So where does one begin?

Choosing a law school that's a good fit is really all about knowing yourself and knowing what's important to you. What are your strengths and weaknesses? If you don't know what makes you tick (so to speak) it will be impossible to find a school that's a good match. In what types of environments are you likely to thrive?

Do you do well in highly-competitive, cut-throat types of environments, or do you prefer a more laid back, social community where students aren't gunning after each other? Do you prefer classes with many students or do you thrive on the interaction offered only by small classes and frequent teacher-student contact? These are the types of questions you should consider as you sort through those law school brochures.

The following are some other factors that you absolutely must consider as you begin the process of choosing a law school:

1. Where is the school located and what is nature of the surrounding community? Is it in a major metropolitan area or is it located in a smaller city? You should also consider if you would be happy living in the same city as a particular law school following graduation, as working in the same city where you attended school will allow you to more easily network with alumni and local law firms.
2. What is the cost of the school and what types of financial aid are available? Since law school generally runs about $150,000 for the full program, finding a school that offers financial assistance that you find acceptable is important. Check to see if a particular school offers any need or merit-based grants for which you might qualify. Minority scholarships are available at some schools as well.
3. What is the composition and background of the student body? This is an important consideration as you should try to find a school where you are likely to feel comfortable. Are you applying to law school later in life? If so, you might be more comfortable in a school with a higher proportion of older students.
4. Are there any special programs offered? Many law schools will host joint programs that will allow you to earn your law degree while simultaneously earning other degrees such as a masters degree in social work or a masters degree in business administration. If this fits with your career goals, you should certainly consider this as you look at schools.
5. What are the interests of the faculty? It's always a good idea to attend a school where your interests align with that of the faculty.

Remember, although it is important to find a school that fits you well, there is no such thing as perfection. It is unlikely that you will find a law school that offers exactly what you need and want. Before you choose a school, pick a few factors that are important to you and prioritize them. This should help you sort through all of those acceptance letters and choose the right school!

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