[eviljeff]

I'm currently a 1L at Columbia. I chose it over Harvard, Cornell, and NYU.

I didn't really consider Cornell because of its lower rank and location.

Harvard vs. Columbia
It's true that Harvard is more prestigious than Columbia. However, the prestige difference is much larger in the general public's opinion than it is in the legal community. Also, if you're not interested in clerking, being at a top 5 firm, or being a professor, there is essentially no difference between the two. Note that you can still do all of these things if you choose CLS, but being at HLS would make them a bit easier. People talk about Boston vs. New York, but it's actually Cambridge vs. New York. True, Boston is only a subway trip away, but I think it's unlikely you'd spend much time there. Obviously you should visit both areas and see what you like. Personally I hated Cambridge and I love NY.

Columbia vs. NYU
Someone said that NYU is ranked higher. Unless some new rankings came out recently, this is wrong. Even if they are higher in some ranking system, Columbia is definitely more prestigious. Whereas Harvard and Columbia are close, I think the difference between CLS and NYU is significant. Then again, you'll still get a great job going to either. Something I like about Columbia over NYU is that Columbia actually has a campus. NYU is just a loose collection of buildings, but in a definitely cooler area.

well, that's my spiel. I think you should visit all of the schools and make your decision after that. also, don't be bullied into going to a more prestigious school if it's not where you want to be. you're set dude, no worries. PM me if you have questions.