I am applying to both schools for fall 2007. They both have nice buildings that make me feel like I am at a law school. My undergrad was at an old school, but my master's was at an ugly commutor school- aethetics are important to me for some reason. I am totally a suburbanite from OC and San Diego, and contrary to what others have said I think that SW is in a fun and safe neighborhood. I was there from 9-10 pm, left my windows down with my little llasa on the front seat. It seemed like a cool and hip place, with a lot to do on Wilshire. I think one has to be very sheltered to think that 'urban' and 'bad neighborhood' are synonomous. I thought I would have hated law school in LA until I actually visited SW and Loyola. There was an urban energy, and I had the feeling that it would be a fun and new adventure. I think that career prospects would be a little better at SW and the possibility for more pay are greater at SW. But their attrition rate is high, which is a little scary. Chapman is in a cool old towne, and the surf is right down hrbor blvd. Chap is a new school, and their grads don't seem to make too much money...at first...but they do get jobs. I also like that Chap is attatched to the undergrad- in that it offers more in the way of social and ed opportunities. Chapman is middle of the road (a student told me it was 40% conservative and 60% liberal) which is a relief- as I spent BA and MA at University of the Left. I would be happy going to either school- and would probably be steered by any money they threw at me. I am in the same boat, I really like Chapman more- but SW seems like it may open a few more doors and deliver a little more money. I like Chapman more, but SW seems as if it would be better for making money. In my case it is a battle between my heart (Chapman) and my mind (Southwestern).
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