I'm going to NYU this year. Reasons: from what I understand, NYU is less conservative, and more focused on international law and public service. Columbia is more focused on business stuff. But of course both schools have comprehensive, excellent programs. I highly suggest visiting them if at all possible and talking to real-live students, checking out which atmosphere you feel most comfortable in. Make sure that the alumni network is strong in areas you've got an interest in. Also, I've sometimes heard NYU described as a somewhat newly awesome school, that's at least sticking around for a while and possibly on its way up. I certainly like thier philosophy that any/all law can and should be thought of in a world context, not just within one's own country, especially given increasing (for better or worse) globalization.