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Alumni
A Journey of Growth and Purpose: Melis Ozcan '24 LLM
Initially, Melis Ozcan ’24 LLM described her main objective in pursuing her LLM as to sit for the New York Bar Exam, however, her educational experience at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University ultimately contributed to her personal growth while also providing her with a high-quality legal education. “When deciding which school to attend, I consulted coworkers who had previously done LLM programs in the United States and Haub Law came highly recommended—I learned of an acquaintance, a Haub Law graduate, who had carved out a very successful career at a globally renowned company,” said Melis. “That truly impressed me. After researching the school further, I found its location and history particularly appealing.”
Once she began her studies at Pace Haub Law, Melis shares that it was a truly unique experience and exactly what she had hoped for. “My classes were comprised of lawyers from all over the world; some were recent graduates, while others were experienced attorneys with a passion for ongoing professional development. Studying and interacting with them in an academic setting, exchanging ideas and learning from each other, was incredible.” The supportive and accessible atmosphere and faculty were equally impressive to Melis. “Everyone was always willing to help. The personalized attention available made it very easy to adapt to a different culture and also a different legal system.”
While Melis enjoyed so many of her LLM classes, she describes her absolute favorite as Civil Procedure with Professor Michael Mushlin. “I am so grateful I took Civil Procedure during my first semester of the LLM program because Professor Mushlin is truly one of the most engaging and effective instructors I’ve ever encountered,” recalls Melis. “I consider him to be one of Pace Haub Law’s greatest assets, and I think everyone should experience taking at least one course with him. I’m convinced that my clear understanding of Civil Procedure played a major role in helping me pass the Bar Exam on my first attempt, saving me a tremendous amount of time and energy during my studies. Professor Mushlin has wonderful and effective teaching methods.” Melis also describes another standout class for her as Advanced Issues in Criminal Law: Sex Crimes with Adjunt Professor Fredric Green. She describes the course as incredibly eye-opening and an unforgettable experience having it taught by a highly experienced and successful prosecutor.
While Melis was an LLM student, one of her biggest pieces of advice for anyone enrolling in an LLM program is to make sure you enroll in at least one course with JD students and interact with them as much as possible. “I don’t believe you can fully experience what it’s like to be a law student in the United States without engaging with local students. While it’s invaluable to connect with your fellow international classmates, building relationships with JD students equally contributes to your academic and personal growth. By attending classes with them and actively participating in class discussions, you’ll gain far more than you might expect—for both your legal knowledge and perspective.”
I hope to continue making a positive impact in many more people’s lives as an immigration lawyer. I would not be able to do this without my LLM degree from Pace Haub Law.
Today, Melis is at Akalan Law Firm, specializing in immigration law. Immigration law has always been an area of interest for Melis. “My home country, Turkey, has hosted many refugees from the Middle East. As a result, immigration, especially human rights and asylum law—has remained a significant focus there. I’m excited to be furthering my career as an immigration attorney here in the United States, now that I’ve completed my LLM and gained a solid understanding of the United States legal system. I find immigration law particularly rewarding; being able to help individuals access more humane living conditions every day is extremely meaningful to me. I hope to continue making a positive impact in many more people’s lives as an immigration lawyer. I would not be able to do this without my LLM degree from Pace Haub Law.”
In her spare time, Melis loves going on nature hikes and exploring upstate New York’s parks, forests, and natural areas. She shares, “I really enjoy discovering these new outdoor spots, especially since this country is still new to me.” She also enjoys the more urban benefits of living in New York – including attending numerous concerts.
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