Battle of the Public Schools: UVA vs. Michigan vs. Berkeley (Please Read)
I am very thankful to be in this position and I attribute my results to a ton of luck. I am deciding between the three public schools: UVA ($$$+), Michigan ($$$), and Berkeley ($0). I would like to live in NorCal long term and keep as many professional avenues (CA clerkships, biglaw, PI) open as possible. Outside of my career goals, I have personal reasons to be in the Bay Area (my family is here, my partner is here), and Berkeley was also my dream, absolute dream outcome going in. Money is an important consideration but not the end-all.
Unfortunately, Berkeley's initial offer was $0 and I think they probably won't get back to me before the deadlines roll around. I am really struggling to let go of this option. Every practical bone in my body is telling me to attend either UVA or Michigan, but my gut tells me to hold out for Berkeley. I really don't care for Charlottesville or the "Southern" atmosphere at UVA, but it's slightly more affordable than Michigan is, and has incredible clerkship numbers. Ann Arbor feels more comfortable and I think it's a better fit, but I can't help comparing both C-ville and Ann Arbor to the Bay Area. Any insight would be helpful. Thanks!
ETA for future lurkers: I will deposit at Michigan and hold out for an offer from Berkeley. Unless a miracle happens, I will be moving to the North, attending Mich this fall and living up my inner House Stark. Also should have clarified that the difference in COA between Mich and UVA is roughly 15k, but will be attending debt free either way (was lucky enough to work and save a bit after college).