Vanderbilt vs UMD

<p>I've been lucky enough to have been both admitted to Vandy and receive an almost full ride to the University of Maryland. Money really isn't a problem and my parents won't need to take out loans to pay for my education; however if I went to Vanderbilt I'd be on my own financially when it comes to law school, whereas if I went to UMD I'd be able to graduate from law school debt free. I'm leaning towards Vanderbilt because of the superior education I'd receive there (smaller class sizes, better faculty, better student body) and because its placement of grads into top law schools is much better than Maryland's. I guess what I'm asking is should I go to Vanderbilt and rely on scholarships/student loans if I go law school, or should I take the money, go to UMD, and risk going to a lesser know law school? The other think I'm keeping in mind is that I perform better when I'm around more motivated people, so Vandy definitely has the advantage there.</p>

<p>Since law school does not provide a very good ROI if you don’t go to a top 15-20 law school, I would recommend choosing Vandy, as your law school prospects will be better here. On the other hand, going to UMD will basically net you a free law degree, which is a pretty good deal. Still, I think that Vanderbilt is a much better place to spend four years of your life, and has other benefits (a better education, a better alumni network, higher prestige) that you will appreciate in the long run, in addition to your increased earning potential.</p>

<p>I personally know a UMD full-ride honors student graduating this year who is going to Harvard Law school next year, so that route is not impossible.</p>

<p>Think long and hard before turning down the full ride at UMD. You obviously have access to the honors program at Maryland. The honors classes are small (25 students); most are writing intensive. Do well academically. If you’re unhappy you can transfer. If your happy, stay – students at UMD that do well academically go to top grad schools, including Harvard Law. That said, it is an enormous school (24K undergrads). Non-honors classes, especially for the first two years, are huge. Many departments are very strong, but if you’re in a class of hundreds, learning is something you do on your own. Ultimately, my advice is visit both and go with your gut – where do you feel happiest.</p>