* Fordham: Generally considered the most prestigious of the group, offering strong academics and potentially better connections to law schools in the New York area. Its location in NYC provides unparalleled access to internships and networking opportunities.
* Hofstra: A solid choice, also located in a convenient area (Long Island), offering decent pre-law advising and connections. It's likely to be a bit less competitive than Fordham.
* Siena, Marist, and Fairfield: These three are smaller, more liberal arts-focused schools. While they offer pre-law advising, their connections to top law schools and the sheer volume of pre-law students might be less than Fordham or Hofstra. However, the smaller class sizes might offer more individual attention.
Factors to consider when choosing:
* Pre-Law Advising: Research the specific pre-law advising programs at each school. Look for robust support, including LSAT prep assistance, mock interviews, and connections to law school admissions officers.
* Academic Rigor: Examine the strength of the undergraduate programs that align with your interests. A strong GPA is crucial for law school applications.
* Location and Opportunities: Consider the location's proximity to internships, networking events, and the overall environment. NYC (Fordham, Hofstra) offers more opportunities but also higher costs and competition.
* Fit: Consider the overall campus culture and if you'd thrive in the smaller, liberal arts setting of Siena, Marist, or Fairfield or the larger, more urban campuses of Fordham or Hofstra.
* Cost and Financial Aid: Tuition and financial aid packages vary significantly.
In short, you should visit the websites of each school's pre-law advising office, look at their alumni success in law school admissions, and consider your own academic strengths and career goals before making a decision. Talking to current pre-law students at each institution would also be invaluable.