Meet the LLM class of 2026: Shaw Shiuan Ong
Shaw Shiuan Ong
CLASS OF 2026
Home Country: Singapore
Prior Education: National University of Singapore, Faculty of Law '19 (L.L.B.)
Prior Work Experience: Senior Associate, Hogan Lovells (Singapore)
After five years of practicing as a private capital fund formation lawyer, I felt it was the right time to step away from legal practice for a moment so that I could strengthen my expertise by pursuing an LLM. I wanted to supplement my professional experience with graduate coursework focused not only on my core field but also on other interconnected areas such as international tax, intellectual property, and securities regulation. At a more personal level, I have always enjoyed learning and studying abroad in the United States has always been a dream of mine.
Why did you choose Duke Law School?
There are so many reasons to choose Duke! One of my primary reasons was the exceptional quality of education Duke Law School has to offer. The school has a broad range of courses taught by distinguished faculty and I was impressed to see that many of them cover cutting-edge and topical issues such as AI regulation, biometrics surveillance and climate change financing, just to name a few examples. Coupled with Duke’s relatively smaller class size which helps to foster a more personal and engaging learning environment, I thought Duke would be the perfect place for me to pursue graduate studies.
I had also heard great things about the supportive and collegial culture at Duke and I am glad this has proven to be true. From the admissions process to orientation to classroom interactions, everyone I have encountered so far has not only been incredibly smart, but also genuinely kind and welcoming.
Finally, I love that the school is surrounded by nature. The campus is beautiful and I feel that photos do not do the place any justice. I’m looking forward to seeing how the campus will transform through the seasons.
Are there student groups or other activities you’d like to get involved with?
I’m thinking of applying to join the Duke Law & Contemporary Problems journal as a student editor. I’m also keen to join the Sports and Entertainment Law Society.
How do you plan to use your LLM degree after graduation?
After graduation, I will be returning to Hogan Lovells’ Singapore office to rejoin my private capital team who have been absolute champions holding down the fort in my absence. I’m excited to bring back fresh perspectives and new insights and look forward to contributing meaningfully to my team and our clients.
What do you do to relax outside of work or class?
I love art and enjoy visiting galleries. I’ve visited the North Carolina Museum of Art which was an amazing experience. I have the university’s Nasher Museum of Art next on my list!
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.