Elle Woods decides to go to Harvard Law School primarily to win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner Huntington III.
Her unexpected journey to one of the nation's most prestigious law schools is driven by a very personal and determined goal:
- The Breakup: Elle's boyfriend, Warner Huntington III, ended their relationship when she anticipated a marriage proposal. He claimed he needed "to marry a Jackie, not a Marilyn," indicating he sought a more serious or traditional partner suitable for his political aspirations, rather than her vibrant, seemingly less conventional personality.
- Warner's Path: Following their breakup, Warner was bound for Harvard Law School, a highly competitive and respected institution.
- Elle's Determination: Upon learning of Warner's plans and his reason for ending their relationship, Elle became determined to gain admittance to Harvard Law herself. Her ambition was explicitly to follow him there and win him back, proving her capability and worth in his eyes.
This singular motivation propelled Elle through the rigorous admission process, leading her to embark on an unexpected academic and personal transformation at Harvard. Her initial goal, while deeply personal, ultimately sets the stage for her to discover her true potential and passion for law.
