Hi everyone

I know this question has been asked many times before, but I was wondering if in my circumstances your advice would be any different.

I am a European lawyer and my focus is mainly on financial/banking regulation. I have been admitted to UChicago and still waiting on Columbia's decision. My post-LLM plan is to move to London (or another major European financial hub - e.g., Luxembourg) and stay in the same practice area.

I would like to hear your thoughts on which of the two you would pick. I am not too concerned about costs (in the worst case scenario I'll take out a loan). My main priority is to (a) pick the best school in terms of future job prospects (particularly in the European market), (b) have an intellectually stimulating life experience, and (c) expand my network.

My feeling here is that Columbia might have an edge over UChicago simply because UChicago is lesser known in Europe.

Any thoughts will be greatly appreciated!

The obvious answer here would be to pursue an LLM in the UK... Wondering why wouldn't you consider that

I also applied to a few universities in the UK. I am just trying to figure out which should be my top choice in the US and then weigh it against my top choice in the UK.

[Edited by ami96 on Feb 26, 2024]

Without question, Columbia.  It is a part of less than a handful of U.S. law schools with truly international recognition.  Chicago just doesn’t cut it in that category though it is a top law school.

Chicago is a very selective law school and very well known worldwide! I would def pick it over Columbia. The LLM at Chicago is also a lot smaller (80 students) and I think your experience is probably very enriching and rewarding. Columbia's class is HUGE and you will likely not benefit from such a big class.

I would pick Columbia. Its reputation globally-wise is far superior than Chicago….And the size I believe that is positive. You will have more opportunities to connect with a wider alumni network and professional contacts. It also has superior prestige than Chicago

[Edited by latin_brain on Feb 26, 2024]