Cornell has the dubious distinction of being a lesser ivy, which means it’s forever stuck in the HYPCDPCB hierarchy (perhaps the main reason the suicide rate is so high). Just look at the Keith Olbermann/Ann Coulter debate. USC has no such constraints and has a viable chance to achieve greater distinction. Northwestern’s most illustrious alumnus is David Schwimmer, which speaks volumes. In their defense, both schools are fine choices but I believe of all three only USC has the resources to break into the top echelons of higher education, largely because of its location and strong corporate and alumni financial support. As far as law school, all three would open doors to a T14 law school. Good luck and congratulations on getting into three top schools.