Adarsh Koirala
Studying abroad is a significant step in one's academic and professional journey. As an international student from Nepal, my dream was to pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) program specializing in intellectual property law in the United States. My journey to the University of New Hampshire (UNH) Franklin Pierce School of Law was filled with meticulous planning, preparation, and persistence. In this blog, I'll share my experience and insights on the admission process, offering guidance for prospective students aiming to embark on a similar path.
1. Choosing the Right University: The first and foremost step in the admission process is selecting a university that aligns with your interests and career goals. This choice is pivotal, as the LLM program typically lasts only a year, and wasting time on a curriculum that doesn't cater to your needs can be detrimental. After thorough research, I chose UNH Franklin Pierce due to its renowned Intellectual property law program. I wanted to specialize in trademarks and copyrights, and UNH Franklin Pierce was the perfect fit. I got in contact with the admission office as soon as I got to know about the law school and was in continuous contact. Students may hesitate to communicate with universities, but it's crucial, especially for undergraduates, to actively engage with law schools and submit their applications early.
2. Adequate Preparation: Preparation is key to success in any endeavor. I spent approximately 1.5 years preparing for the application process. This included honing my English language skills, researching the LLM program, and planning my finances. Ensuring that you are fully committed and prepared for the journey ahead is essential for a smooth admission process. Coming to the USA and starting your life is the gutsiest thing you are going to do, and you cannot leave your work and family without proper preparation. As a teaching assistant in my undergraduate law school, I informed the administration of my intention to pursue an LLM degree at UNH Franklin Pierce six months before my planned arrival. As a law student and a lawyer, it’s important not to leave anything incomplete, so informing ahead helps to maintain a healthy environment and relationship with your employer.
3. Research and Streamlining the Process: Research is your ally throughout the admission process. Each university may have different requirements and procedures. In my case, I applied through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), a platform not to be confused with the LSAT exam. The LSAC application was a bit more complex, requiring me to travel extensively to get my transcript certified. Understanding the process thoroughly and planning can save you both time and money. However, many universities, like UNH Franklin Pierce, provide their own portal for application which can be faster and cheaper.
4. Timely Application: One critical aspect of the admission process is applying well in advance. Ideally, you should begin planning for your application at least a year before the program's start date. This allows you ample time to craft a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) and request Letters of Recommendation (LORs). When seeking LORs, be strategic and select individuals who are well-acquainted with your work and character. In my case, I included LORs from a college professor, my workplace supervisor, and another professor from my law school, showcasing both my academic and professional strengths. Take time, talk to your recommenders, and know that you can refresh their memories as to the work you helped with and the projects you completed. Writing letters of recommendation (LORs) can be time-consuming for recommenders, especially when numerous students are requesting them. Professors are often occupied with their own responsibilities, so be sure to plan for potential delays in the process and check-in with your recommender with a friendly reminder if needed.
4. Visa Application and Timely Enrollment: For international students, obtaining a visa is often a time-consuming process. To avoid unnecessary delays, it's crucial to choose your university and submit your tuition deposit at least six months before your intended start date. In my experience, I had to travel to India to secure a visa interview appointment because of the backlog in Nepal. Thus, making an early choice and an early application is vital to avoid potential complications, as is planning for additional financial investments and building in extra time for the process. At UNH Franklin Pierce, rest assured that you will have the support of the Office of International Students and Scholars to guide you through the visa process.
6. Pursuing Scholarships for Financial Flexibility: Another crucial aspect of my admission journey was seeking scholarships. Scholarships not only alleviate the financial burden, but also provide you with greater flexibility during your studies in the United States. I want to emphasize the importance of actively applying for them. Scholarships can come from various sources, including the university itself, external organizations, or even the government of your home country. While the competition can be fierce, the potential return on investment in your career makes it well worth the effort.
For those who might not secure a scholarship, the idea of taking out a loan to pursue education in the USA might seem daunting. However, it's important to view this as an investment in your future. The U.S. education system offers a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and skills that can significantly boost your career prospects. The experience and exposure you gain while studying in the United States can be invaluable, making it a wise investment for your professional development.
In Conclusion: Looking back, I can confidently say that the entire admission process was worth every effort. The University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law has proven to be the ideal choice for my LLM program, offering a top-notch education in intellectual property law. The proactive and supportive faculty, coupled with the friendly atmosphere, has made my academic journey here exceptionally rewarding. If you aspire to specialize in IP Law, Commerce and Technology Law, I wholeheartedly recommend UNH Franklin Pierce.
The path to studying abroad is not without its challenges, but with determination, preparation, and the right choice of institution, it can lead to an enriching and fulfilling educational experience. As an international student from Nepal, I can attest that the journey to UNH Franklin Pierce has been transformative, and I look forward to a promising career in the field of Intellectual Property Law.
The admissions team at UNH Franklin Pierce is happy to help prospective LLM students through the application process. You can reach them at admissions@law.unh.edu or on WhatsApp at +1603-513-5300. In addition, Sarah Dorner, Assistant Dean of Graduate Admissions and International Outreach, and I will be available for a virtual chat about the law school’s LLM programs and application process on January 25 at 9am ET. You can register HERE. I hope to speak with you then!
