Is a state college or prestigious college better for me?

I’m down to two colleges and need to decide quickly but am having trouble. I can attend the state college which is not very prestigious but will not cause me any debt, or I can attend the more prestigious private college in my city. I like the prestigious one far more however I would be graduating with debt (~35-40k). It also seems to me that the prestige is only in my area, and the university is not known well outside of the state/Midwest. I plan to stay in the Midwest though and become a lawyer. Which option seems best? I’m split and people I ask are just as contradicting as my own thoughts.

Prestige of your law school more important. Law school is expensive. The usual view is to avoid undergraduate debt and get a GPA and LSAT score that can get you in to a top 14 or the top state or regional law school for your area.

No “prestigious” university is worth the debt, especially if you want to go on to grad school. You also plan to stay in the midwest though, so you’re good. GO with the state school! Don’t listen to PEOPLE. What raises eyes at barbecues and parties isn’t the best choice always, when it comes to colleges. People are impressed by names but they’re not paying your debt…

For undergrad prelaw? lol…no, don’t take on that debt…no way!!!