Tony Karpov, Russia, LL.M. 2006

My goal is to practice Law in the United States and my LL.M. Degree is the most important step in reaching this goal. William and Mary's program is clearly the best opportunity for foreign lawyers to learn the principles and policies of the American Legal system. The LL.M. program is flexible - you can choose classes in the areas of law that interest you the most, and if you have any questions or doubts about which classes to take or how to balance your workload, there are very helpful advisers. In addition, professors and teaching assistants are always available if you need additional information or are having trouble understanding the material. Law school policies regarding LL.M. students are designed with the understanding that foreign students have specific needs, and it makes you feel welcome and secure and allows you to concentrate on your studies instead of spending time trying to resolve various adaptation nuisances that most foreign students in other schools have to deal with on their own. Professors, administration, and students enthusiastically offer advice and suggestions that assist me in my studies, and I know it will help me to build my future career. I couldn't have chosen a better school--William and Mary is well-known and well-respected, and I am very pleased with my decision.

John Huang, China, LL.M. 2006

William and Mary has provided me with the skills to learn, research, and write in the American legal system. Due to the small size of the school and LL.M. program, I receive personal attention from the professors and have developed good relationships with other students. I've had wonderful social experiences, including a boat trip with my Corporations professor and a canoe trip on the York River with other students. Everyone is incredibly nice and helpful--I love this place, and I've improved both my English and professional skills.

Ainslie Hodges, Australia, LL.M. 2006

By attending William and Mary, I have been able to undertake a course of study that will allow me to sit for the Virginia bar exam and ultimately be admitted to the practice of law in Virginia. However, this is not the only value of an LL.M. from William and Mary. This degree is also of great value professionally in Australia, and the variety of courses offered by W&M has allowed me to explore different areas of the law in which I am interested. My favorite aspect of William and Mary is the learning environment the school offers. As a small school, there is a strong sense of community that makes LL.M. students feel welcome and allows them to establish lasting friendships with both
other LL.M. students and J.D. students. The professors are all approachable and dedicated to helping students get the most out of their classes and achieving their best. The school's administrative staff also provides valuable assistance in guiding LL.M. students in their transition to living and studying law in the U.S., as well as developing a course of study that meets each student's needs. Another wonderful aspect of studying law at W&M is the opportunity that law students have to attend lectures and symposiums given by professors from the law school and other guests on a variety of different topics. I've gained an incredible understanding of the American perspective of the law, the legal system, and the role of lawyers in society. Although there are many similarities with the Australian system, gaining this understanding has helped me understand the nuances between the U.S. and Australian legal systems.