Hi everyone!

I want to start studying a LLM during this Fall Semester in the US (haven´t decided on the Law School yet), and I currently work on a big Law Firm in Chile in Corporate and M&A matters. The thing is that my employer has offered me to continue working remotely during my studies, of course being more flexible with the hours, as long as I complete a minimum of 6 hours.

Even though it is not ideal, I am strongly considering his offer, since continue receiving my salary will be a huge help to finance my stay in the US (I am married, so I need every extra penny I can get to support me and my wife during my studies). I have spoken to other colleagues who studied a LLM and they tell me that, although challenging and exhausting, it is perfectly possible to study a LLM while working, since you are not in classes all day and as long as you dedicate daily time for your readings.

What is your opinion in this matter? Have any of you worked and studied at the same time (or know someone who did)?

Thank you very much in advance!

100% of graduate program officers will tell you studying is a full-time job, unfortunately. In addition to the classes themselves, you’d need to use that time to study for classes. And the way classes are graded in the US (i.e. a curve), this could negatively impact your grades, the ability to secure OPT employment after the LLM, and prevent you from doing other things that are equally or more important than studying (networking, attending events, student associations etc.). As well as enjoying what will probably be your final months as a full-time student in your life.

I’m taking a leave of absence from my big firm as well as a loan that’s borderline financally irresponsible.

100% of graduate program officers will tell you studying is a full-time job, unfortunately. In addition to the classes themselves, you’d need to use that time to study for classes. And the way classes are graded in the US (i.e. a curve), this could negatively impact your grades, the ability to secure OPT employment after the LLM, and prevent you from doing other things that are equally or more important than studying (networking, attending events, student associations etc.). As well as enjoying what will probably be your final months as a full-time student in your life.

I’m taking a leave of absence from my big firm as well as a loan that’s borderline financally irresponsible.

It is generally not allowed for you to be admitted as an international student to any part-time degree program. If you need an F-1 visa, this option is simply not available. 

Hi everyone!

I want to start studying a LLM during this Fall Semester in the US (haven´t decided on the Law School yet), and I currently work on a big Law Firm in Chile in Corporate and M&A matters. The thing is that my employer has offered me to continue working remotely during my studies, of course being more flexible with the hours, as long as I complete a minimum of 6 hours.

Even though it is not ideal, I am strongly considering his offer, since continue receiving my salary will be a huge help to finance my stay in the US (I am married, so I need every extra penny I can get to support me and my wife during my studies). I have spoken to other colleagues who studied a LLM and they tell me that, although challenging and exhausting, it is perfectly possible to study a LLM while working, since you are not in classes all day and as long as you dedicate daily time for your readings.

What is your opinion in this matter? Have any of you worked and studied at the same time (or know someone who did)?

Thank you very much in advance!