I chose Cal Western over USD 3 years ago when USD was at 65. USD dropped to the 80's for two years and is now back up at 61.
I'd still pick Cal Western. I was offered a scholarship and even back then I figured that it was better to graduate with less debt and have greater flexibility in what jobs I could take.
Here's kinda the ironic part of "scholarship v. prestige".
Prestige qualifies you for more jobs, but with loans, you're really economically limited.
Scholarships free you economically for more jobs, but with a TTTXYZ123 degree you're "qualifications" limited.
Some people say Only go to a low ranked school if you're sure you don't want BigLaw. That's a fair assessment. I looked at it a little differently, only go to the better law school for full tuition if you're sure you DO want BigLaw.
If you're like me and more interested in public sector work, then you've got a lot more flexibility. Sure, at Cal Western you'll have to make yourself stand out, because your degree won't do it for you. But San Diego is a pretty collegial place. I haven't had any problems networking. I've landed judicial externships, I've had job offers, and I'm in no way unique.
Lastly, check out both schools. Where do you feel more comfortable? Wherever you pick, you're stuck for the next three years. Don't go to a place that will make you miserable. Hope you wind up happy whichever school you pick.
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