Meet the LLM class of 2026: Hannah Homma Tong
Hannah Homma Tong
CLASS OF 2026
Home Country: China
Prior Education: Duke University '21 (Bachelor of Arts); The University of Hong Kong '23 (JD)
Prior Work Experience: Paralegal at Uryu & Itoga (Tokyo)
One of my main aims for the LLM is to gain eligibility for the New York bar. After completing my first law degree in Hong Kong and working as a paralegal in Tokyo, I realized that an LLM would be a step towards greater flexibility to practice in different jurisdictions, as well as an opportunity to develop a toolkit for navigating cross-border matters in increasingly globalized economies. As a Japanese and Hong Kong Chinese person who has lived in both the UK and the U.S., I hope that the LLM will allow me to combine my international background with an understanding of diverse legal systems in my practice as a lawyer.
Why did you choose Duke Law School?
Duke is a very special place for me as I was also here as an undergraduate. I chose Duke Law School after meeting Dean Kobelev, Dean Abrams, and other professors during an alumni event in Tokyo. At this event, I was struck not only by the strength of the alumni community, but it was immediately apparent that great care and effort was made by the international admissions team to curate an exceptional cohort and experience, particularly for LLM students. Of the law schools that I had been considering, Duke was one of the only programs that seemed to prioritize their LLM students just as much as the JDs and this was evident in the enthusiasm for the program shown by LLM alumnae at the event.
During my time here as an undergrad, I also came to really enjoy what Durham and the surrounding Triangle area had to offer – from the restaurants, the hikes, the breweries, and much more. I was excited to come back to an intimate campus environment that fosters close connections to your peers in a city that has a lot to offer.
Are there student groups or other activities you’d like to get involved with?
During my first law degree, I spent a substantial amount of time doing pro bono work, particularly relating to public interest advocacy and LGBT rights. I hope to continue this through Duke’s many available opportunities and am particularly eager to participate in the Wrongful Convictions Clinic or the Civil Justice Clinic next spring. Additionally, I hope to attend as many Duke sporting events as possible!
How do you plan to use your LLM degree after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to return to Tokyo to practice U.S. law as a registered foreign lawyer (gaikokuho-jimu-bengoshi).
What do you do to relax outside of work or class?
I roller skate (albeit somewhat poorly) and enjoy live music.
Meet more of our LLM students who make this a great community.
At Duke Law, you'll join a community of peers from different geographic regions, cultures, professional paths, and interests.
The Career & Professional Development Center is committed to helping LLM students acquire the professional tools and skills that will serve them well in the United States or abroad.