Drexel University

The Earle Mack School of Law at Drexel University is the newest law school in the Philadelphia area, having been founded in 2006. It has a fresh perspective that allows students the opportunity to help shape their own education, said Assistant Dean of Admissions Isabel DiSciullo.

“One of the things that’s really exciting about our faculty, staff and administration is that they’re willing to try something new and push the status quo a little bit,” DiSciullo said.
As an example of student input that had an impact, DiSciullo pointed out a recent decision that allows first-year students to take one elective class in their second semester. This decision was made in response to student requests for an elective during the first year, something most law schools don’t permit.

In addition to a responsive faculty and staff, DiSciullo said Drexel puts a strong emphasis on experiential education. This emphasis comes through both traditional venues such as co-ops, clinical opportunities and pro bono clinics, as well as integration in the classroom. The school ranks high for externship opportunities.

A third factor that makes Drexel unique compared to other law schools is the close-knit community atmosphere the school provides. This experience is supported by an enrollment of 410 students, almost half the size of the next-smallest school in the Philadelphia area.

Drexel offers the highest median grant award in the Philadelphia area. Those high numbers are partially the result of the school’s initial push to attract students to its new program, but DiSciullo said financial support for students continues to be an important focus.

Published Fall 2011