Law School Visits: UVA

It’s spring break and I’m spending it touring law schools.  First stop: the admitted students weekend at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.  I was very impressed and can definitely see myself going there.  I’m not a definite, but it’s very high on my list.

Everyone was so friendly.  I was really happy to see that the stereotypical cut-throat environment was completely absent.  They play as hard as they work.  Softball is very popular, with each section having its own team.  Student organizations are very active, and I’m especially excited that I can become a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) through the child advocacy club.

Academically, it’s undoubtedly the best school I’ve gotten into.  More than 15 clinics are offered, including a Supreme Court litigation clinic in which students file petitions for certiorari (three of which have actually been granted) and an innocence project.   I met the head of the family resource clinic, who shared how students restored food stamp coverage to a mentally ill client.  In another session, I asked a con law professor if there was a particular judicial philosophy popular among the faculty (read: please warn me about the liberal sissies and right-wing nutjobs).  He said that there’s a variety of opinions, but that the professors will push you in so many directions that you’ll think they don’t have a judicial philosophy at all.  Good answer.

They had a lot to say about clerkships, and the private recruiting is also strong.  Tuition is steep, but I can take out a student loan.  They offer some loan forgiveness if I go into public service work.

Dad and I going to look at housing tomorrow.  Next stop: Washington and Lee.  I’ll keep you posted!