The LLM/MIP Degree and OPT Will Shape the Future of IP Law (Part 2)

The LLM/MIP Degree and Optional Practical Training (OPT): Shaping the Future of Intellectual Property Law

At the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, the journey from classroom to career is more than just a transition—it's a transformational experience that empowers students to make a significant impact in the world of law. Our alumni have not only excelled in their fields but have also become influential leaders, innovators, and mentors. Often, initial post-graduation employment for international LLM graduates is pursued through Optional Practical Training (OPT), temporary work authorization for international students to gain experience in their field of study while maintaining their F-1 visa status. Through the OPT stories that follow, we celebrate the invaluable education and experiences that help shape the early careers of IP professionals from around the globe.

Sarafina Nwabueze, Nigeria: Trademark Expertise in Action

Sarafina’s OPT experience as a Trademark Law Clerk at Markery Law gave her hands-on experience in trademark prosecution and portfolio management, a field she grew passionate about during her time at UNH Franklin Pierce. She emphasizes the role practice-oriented classes, such as Trademark Law and the Intellectual Property and Transaction Clinic in giving her the legal knowledge and practical training needed to thrive in her role where some of her responsibilities include trademark searches, preparing and filing trademark applications, trademark prosecution, and portfolio management. Sarafina’s advice for future students? "Leverage every resource—professors, Office of Career and Academic Advising, and the Office of International Students and Scholars—to maximize your opportunities." Sarafina credits Franklin Pirece’s career services with providing valuable career guidance and facilitating communication with her current employer, and notes: “Through networking events, job postings, and personalized career advice, Career and Academic Advising helped me identify opportunities aligned with my expertise in trademark law, refine my résumé, cover letter, and interview skills, and proved invaluable in helping me successfully secure my OPT role.” Sarafina’s story speaks to the importance of real-world application and making the most of UNH Franklin Pierce’s extensive support systems.
 

Lavanya GT, India: Real-World Experience Meets Intellectual Property Law

Lavanya chose UNH Franklin Pierce due to the school’s emphasis on practical, hands-on learn and access to a vast network of IP professionals. Her experience as a student attorney in the Intellectual Property and Transaction Clinic was a pivotal moment in her career. The hands-on exposure to real cases with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) bridged her academic knowledge with practical application, preparing her for her “transformative” OPT employment as a Contracts Analyst in a major U.S. public health organization where she manages a variety of contracts with a focus on IP agreements. She cites the school’s annual IP Law Symposium, which featured renowned speakers and facilitated discussion on emerging trends in IP law, and relationships with professors as particularly helpful as she pursued OPT. Lavanya’s journey reflects the importance of extracurricular involvement and networking. Her advice? "Actively participate in extracurricular activities and networking events, as they provide invaluable learning and career opportunities." 

Maria Gabriela Riveros Paredes, Paraguay: The Leap into Global IP Law

Gaby’s decision to pursue an LLM in the U.S. was driven by her desire to deepen her IP knowledge and expand her global connections. Her experience at UNH Franklin Pierce not only enriched her legal expertise and cross-cultural professional connections through relationship building with classmates from around the world but also helped her land OPT employment, and ultimately full-time role, as International Counsel at a prominent IP law firm in Washington, D.C. Gaby used her time at Franklin Pierce to attend networking events where she met outstanding professional who shared their journeys and provided career advice and inspiration. Gaby shares that the connections she made during her LLM studies have become a network of colleagues and friends she knows she can rely on throughout her career and who continue to enrich her professional and personal life.  Gaby’s advice to future students is simple yet powerful: "Take the leap! Go for it, even if you feel scared. UNH Franklin Pierce will support you throughout your journey. MY LLM experience changed my life; I wouldn’t be where I am today without it and without the people at Frankin Pierce who supported me along the way." Her story is an inspiring reminder that taking bold steps can lead to extraordinary opportunities.

A Legacy of Success and Support

The experiences shared by these alumni reflect the spirit of UNH Franklin Pierce—a place where academic excellence, real-world experience, and unparalleled support come together to create a thriving community of legal professionals. Whether it’s through hands-on clinic work, networking opportunities, or personalized guidance from faculty and staff, UNH Franklin Pierce continues to equip its students with the skills and connections needed to succeed in the ever-evolving world of law.

If you’re ready to take the leap and follow in the footsteps of these inspiring alumni, start your journey at UNH Franklin Pierce where your future in law begins today. Applications for on-campus and online LLM programs beginning in August 2025 are still being accepted. Learn more and apply now!