Ms. Dhivya U recently graduated from the New York University School of Law with an LL.M. in Corporation Law.
Why did you choose New York University for your LL.M.? Did you receive any scholarship?
I chose NYU because of its locational advantage. Being situated in Manhattan, NY, it offers a prime opportunity to enter New York law firms upon graduation. Additionally, NYU School of Law has an excellent reputation and ranking, which is an added benefit. I would suggest anyone not just look at the ranking blindly but choose a university that has the locational advantage for finding jobs.
I did not receive a scholarship from NYU, but received it from Berkeley, UCLA, Boston University, etc.
Walk us through a typical day at NYU.
At NYU, your LL.M. degree is going to be shorter than you think. Initial days are tough but once you get into the routine, you are going to be fine. I started my day with regular classes, and I did preparatory readings before each class which is a must to understand the class. No LL.M. course in the USA is curated to teach you like Indian colleges. There will be discussions for which you need to prepare beforehand.
Otherwise, there were simulations and seminar classes for which you needed to write papers every week, with no final exams. Ultimately, grades are not the most important aspect of the course. Instead, the experience of attending lectures of some of the most knowledgeable and experienced professors in the world holds greater value.
My nine months at the NYU LL.M. program were mostly spent in the huge law library. NYU has one of the best law libraries, built in the 18th century and maintained so well. I love to study and prepare for my classes at the library. Even if there is no work, I usually spend my time in the library.
What are some of the most memorable aspects of your LL.M. journey?
The highlight of my course has been my class: Introduction to Banking and Modern Finance, which was one of my favorite courses.
My LL.M. experience in the heart of the most happening city, New York, was always filled with vibrant events, nightlife, and parties. Apart from studying I loved to experiment with different cuisines and try out new places. There were events hosted by the University now and then and hence, it was quite a lot of fun socializing with my peers from around the globe.
Experimenting with food with my friends has been the most memorable experience during my time at NYU. Living in Manhattan, I had the opportunity to taste almost every cuisine from around the world from the finest restaurants. Time spent with friends, hustling during the exam season, and getting endless coffees from the Furman Hall coffee machines, have all been the experiences I won’t forget for life.
What is your take on the U.S. job market?
Right now, the U.S. market is slow with recruitment. But it is expected to improve in a few months hopefully.
Any advice for law students/lawyers who want to pursue their LL.M. from the U.S.?
Law school by itself is not easy. So be prepared for a tough and challenging ride if you are looking to pursue an LL.M.
* As we all know the uncertainty of the H1B lottery and OPT duration of only one year (for non-stem courses), it’s a wise move to consider a STEM course on law if possible. Be ready to expect the unexpected if LL.M. is your end goal, and that too from the U.S.A.
*Having said that, it’s better if you have at least 2 years of work experience before you start your LL.M. as even entry-level positions require work experience these days.
* Be prepared to apply for the bar examination (UBE) beforehand by following the timeline to apply for it. As a foreign-trained attorney, you will have to take UBE to practice law in the USA. Until you pass the bar, you can only work as a Paralegal or a Law Clerk after your LL.M.
* Finance will be an issue if you don’t live on a budget and find a job immediately after you graduate. So be prepared to finance yourself for at least 6 months- the job search period after your graduation.
* At last, networking is very important. Even if the person might not have the right opportunity for you, they can introduce you to someone who might. So, keep talking with as many people from your interested field as you can.
*If coming back to India is your plan, I would still suggest you clear the UBE exam, as it might help you to earn a better salary in Indian law firms. You may also get freelancing opportunities to work remotely for U.S. clients.