On August 8, Cornell Law School welcomed 129 accomplished and enthusiastic students from around the world to Orientation for their one-year Master of Laws (LL.M.) graduate program. Throughout Orientation, which concludes on August 24, students will be given tours of the campus, attend seminars and resource fairs, all while networking with other graduate and professional degree students from across a variety of different programs. Students will also have several opportunities to explore the scenic beauty of Ithaca and get to know their new “home” for the next year.

Orientation kicked off with a warm welcome to the incoming LL.M. Class of 2025 from Jens Ohlin, Allan R. Tessler Dean and Professor of Law. Dean Ohlin discussed the rewarding challenges and opportunities that await the students and shared that he had trained in the philosophical foundations of international law and was excited to welcome students from so many different international backgrounds.

Students then were able to experience their first class of the semester with an Introduction to the American Legal System, taught by Professor Hoi Kong, visiting professor of law. The class, held over the two weeks of Orientation, is designed to provide students with a survey and an analysis of the laws of the United States and is required for the General LL.M. degree.

The final event of Orientation is the International Graduate & Professional Student Orientation and Networking Reception, held August 24 at Statler Hall, which will provide new LL.M. students with an overview of services offered on the Cornell campus, notes about campus safety, academic integrity, mental wellbeing, and more.

The Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree at Cornell Law School is a one-year program that is designed for practicing attorneys and recent law school graduates who have already earned a first degree in law outside the United States. Through this program, students will increase their understanding of American legal principles and further develop their legal specialization.