The LLM program is hectic. The days and classes go by, and it can all feel rather overwhelming. Keeping track of all the major events around your law school, coupled with the regular hours of class can make you feel tired at the end of the day. But take a step back, and reflect on a few key principles.
A Look at Some of the Challenges Of Being An LLM
It is a new atmosphere. New faces, new classes, and erudite treatises. Being a lawyer in your own home country may now seem easier in comparison. A new brand of an American law school has been attached to your resume. You are pondering whether to take the bar as well as learning new legal concepts. In the middle of all of this, you are learning a few habits but also unlearning some as well. The new environment brings with it certain challenges but such hurdles can be tackled easily. [Read more…] about A Look at Some of the Challenges Of Being An LLM
Why Would You Want To Get An LLM?
There isn’t any one particular reason why one wants to do an LL.M. There are multiple ones, and each one is motivation enough for people to apply. Some students wish to experience a new legal system altogether (common law v. civil law) while others wish to specialize in an area that they can build upon in their home country. An LL.M can also be a respectable qualification to have if you are looking at academia by getting into teaching. Let’s look at some of the reasons in detail:
What to Do the Summer Before Your LLM
Congratulations! You have just gotten into an LLM program and can’t stop staring at that glorious acceptance letter! But, you’re not quite done yet. The first step is to make sure you have applied for your I-20. What is that you may ask? Essentially, the I-20 is a legal contract between you, the university and the US Government. Do not put it in your luggage (like I did!). Carry it with you as you arrive into the US. It must have a valid signature on the 2nd page that is valid for up to one year. If you have a temporary I-20, you would need to get a final one from your university upon arrival. Universities can take up to 2-3 weeks to process the I-20 – so don’t push requesting for it all the way in August! Sending in your request by June or so will leave you enough time to allow for it to be couriered to you at your home address. Embassies (especially in developing countries) are overworked and clogged with appointments, so it’s important to start early. [Read more…] about What to Do the Summer Before Your LLM