<p>Hey, all. I've been accepted to both Emory and UGA. I know the obvious answer would be Emory, but it's a little bit more complicated than that. I went to UGA undergrad and am a Georgia resident and in the state of Georgia we have the HOPE scholarship which pretty much pays all of your tuition as long as you keep your grades up. So, I have no undergrad debt. Also UGA Law is alot cheaper, 3 years of UGA costs the same as one at Emory, not to mention that I'll be getting financial aid.
I'd like a change of scenery though, I've gone to UGA for 4 years already, but the idea of getting out of LS with little to no debt is enticing. What's your take?</p>
<p>Is GA the area where you would like to work upon graduation? If so, then UGA would certainly seem like a very strong choice. Obviously Emory may give you some better opportunities, it being the more big-name school, but if you are successful at UGA, there is no reason why you shouldn't be able to secure a job in that region. Throw in the added benefit of no debt and that creates an excellent choice. While it isn't an easy decision, I would cast my vote for UGA (assuming you want to stay in GA after graduation).</p>
<p>I do plan on staying in the region; it's just that going to the same school for 7+ years will be boring. Don't get me wrong, I love it here, it's a great party school. But I'm turning 23 soon, and seeing these 18 year old freshman already makes me feel old. Plus, I've done everything here, been to too many crazy parties to even remember, done some much fun stuff. Honestly, if money weren't an issue I'd pick Emory 10 out of 10 times. But saving money might sway me UGA's way.</p>
<p>Doing well in law school is no guarantee. I know what your thinking...I am different, I'm going to try really really hard, etc. So the best question is, would you be happy at the median of your class coming out of Emory or UGA? </p>
<p>So, take into account what kind of law you want to practice (biglaw, gov., etc.), the amount of debt you will be taking on, your earning potential coming out of each school at the median, and where you think you want to spend the next three years.</p>
<p>I'd rather be at the median of my class at Emory, but I'd also be strapped with $60,000+ in debt.</p>
<p>I understand money being a huge factor in the decision, but honestly, UGA Law is SUCH a better deal than Emory Law, especially if you want to stay in the region. I agree Emory may be the better choice if you want to practice outside of the South, but otherwise, UGA all the way. UGA and Emory are almost exactly on par with one another reputation-wise, so I'd say all the pros outweigh the cons you suggest here. Cannot compare a change of scenery with graduating with NO DEBT from law school. Also, last time I checked, the average starting salaries of both schools were roughly similar...</p>