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Why did you choose Duke Law School?

Duke Law LLM’s often receive admission to a number of outstanding law schools in the US and around the world, and I was fortunate to be in that position. For me, three factors made Duke stand out.

First, Duke’s faculty are leaders in their fields. This semester, I am taking International Trade Law with Professor Rachel Brewster and International Arbitration with Professor Tim Meyer. Both of these courses are foundational for my intended specialization and are taught by world-renowned experts.

Second, Duke Law’s small LLM cohort was very appealing. Our class consists of 83 students from 38 countries, which creates both a rigorous intellectual environment and a close, supportive community. From the moment we were admitted, the International Studies team made sure that we were more than just numbers, fostering a sense of belonging from the outset.

Finally, Duke’s global reputation, network, and cost were important considerations. Duke Law consistently ranks among the world’s top law schools, with alumni working across the globe, including in South Africa. Notably, South Africa’s current Chief Justice, and the country’s first Black female Chief Justice, CJ Maya, is a Duke Law LLM alumna. In addition, the cost of living in North Carolina is significantly lower than in many other U.S. states, which makes a real difference for students from developing countries, like myself, where the exchange rate is a challenge.

How do you plan to use your LLM degree after graduation?

My LLM at Duke will provide me with the necessary skillset to build a career in global legal practice. I am already admitted as an attorney in South Africa, and after my LLM I plan to sit for the New York bar. This will result in admission as a legal practitioner in Africa’s economic hub and in one of the world’s leading commercial centres, which I hope will be appealing to potential employers.

Ideally, I would like to gain international experience in a major financial hub such as New York, London, Hong Kong, Dubai or Singapore whether at a law firm, in-house, or in a consultancy role. I am also interested in exploring opportunities at international organizations such as the World Trade Organization, International Monetary Fund, or World Bank. These institutions will play an important role in shaping Africa’s economic future.