The LLM/MIP Degree and Optional Practical Training (OPT): Shaping the Future of Intellectual Property Law by Sarah Dorner

The LLM/MIP Degree and Optional Practical Training (OPT): Shaping the Future of Intellectual Property Law by Sarah Dorner, Assistant Dean for Graduate Admissions & International Outreach at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, USA In The Global IP Matrix Issue 22, Sarah Dorner highlights how the LLM and MIP programmes at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law are shaping the global future of intellectual property law. Through the experiences of alumni who pursued Optional Practical Training (OPT), this article explores how legal education, practical opportunities, and career guidance converge to support international students in launching impactful legal careers around the world.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

The transition from classroom to workplace can be daunting, but OPT offers international students a practical path to gain real-world experience in the United States while maintaining F-1 visa status. For many, these opportunities become career-defining moments.

Alumni Spotlights: Global Stories of Success

• Victor Kronemberger (Brazil)

  Landed a Law Clerk role at Sunstein LLP in Boston during OPT. Victor credits proactive networking, classroom learning, and support from IP faculty and alumni as the foundation of his success. His advice: “Engage actively with faculty, network relentlessly, and seize every opportunity.”

• Sujay Jayanth (India)

  Became an Associate Patent Agent after excelling in courses like US Patent Law. His advice to students: “Stay consistent with your job search and leverage faculty support."

• Sarafina Nwabueze (Nigeria)

  Secured a position at Markery Law where she managed trademark prosecution. Sarafina praises Franklin Pierce’s hands-on clinics and career services, saying they “helped refine my résumé, interview skills, and secure my OPT role.”

• Lavanya GT (India)

  Served as a student attorney in the IP & Transaction Clinic and later worked as a Contracts Analyst for a public health organisation. Her biggest takeaway: “Participate actively in networking events and extracurriculars—they're game-changers.”

• Maria Gabriela Riveros Paredes (Paraguay)

  Now International Counsel at a major IP firm in Washington, D.C., Gaby attributes her success to Franklin Pierce’s community. Her advice: “Take the leap—even if it feels scary. My LLM changed my life.”
  

A Community That Supports and Empowers

These stories show that the UNH Franklin Pierce experience goes far beyond academics. With a strong emphasis on faculty mentorship, professional networking, career advising, and alumni support, the school equips its students to thrive in a rapidly evolving legal world.

Conclusion Whether it’s building foundational skills, navigating the job market, or establishing global legal careers, the LLM and OPT experiences at UNH Franklin Pierce continue to set students on a path of success. Read the full article in The Global IP Matrix Issue 22 to learn how this programme is creating future leaders in intellectual property law.

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