http://www.llm-guide.com/board/1968 en Re: Re: Working in US after LLM - LLM GUIDE Discussion Board Mon, 21 Mar 2005 15:45:00 +0200 http://www.llm-guide.com/board/1968/last#1968 Hey Everyone I may end up re-iterating what some may have said already, but here is my 2 cents. I obtained my law degree from a University in Ireland, and then went onto get my LLM at Fordham Law School in New York. The program is great as it is at many other schools. BUT, as most of your will be aware, the job market is only now on the rise. Unless you are a straight A student, from a top class university outside of the US, with some years of experience AND good grads at your University in the US during your LLM, AND you have a bit of luck, then MAYBE you will get a position at a 'large' NYC law firm. You need to be very realistic. It’s a lot of money, both the fees and living in NYC for a year studying and its something you must want. As stated by some others you are 'entitled' to a one years working visa having finished your LLM. As for finding a job, many universities have job fairs at the beginning of the first semester, however it can be difficult to even 'get' an interview. Many, myself included, went around and handed out resumes and asked the interviewers if they would meet with me later. Some did, some did not. There will be dinners, functions and other social gatherings, all of which could end up with a meeting or interview. Its hard work. 'Top' firms recruit 'top' graduates from the top 20 law schools and of those the top in each class. Also remember that most top firms will recruit from their summer associate program and that by the time you are applying to them they will have filled the positions for the forthcoming year. The job fairs at most schools will be interviewing 1L and 2Ls. Is it impossible to get a job in NYC? NO, but like I said before you need to be realistic. Use any contacts you have. Create new ones. Go to the alumni dinners of your Law school where you are doing your LLM. If you want to be with a law firm then aim at smaller mid sized or specialized firms. If you do well you can always move up to larger firms later on. It’s not impossible. Consider working 'in house'. Corporations have large compliance departments, as do financial houses. I wish everyone the very best. If you do have any more questions just ask away on here and i will do my best to help you. Good luck, Alexander