International Students
Each year, about one-third of our LL.M. students come from other countries and the Insurance Law Center welcomes applications from international students. The Law School provides special support to its international students. In addition to working with your fellow Insurance Law LL.M. students, you will also participate in social and academic activities for international students in our U.S. Legal Studies LL.M. program and our international Exchange Programs. We also offer two special courses to our international students -- U.S. Law and Legal Institutions and Legal Research and Writing -- to help you acclimate to U.S. legal studies.
Visas: After an international student is accepted into the LL.M. program. we work closely with the University’s Department of International Services and Programs (DISP) to begin the visa process. While U.S. visa requirements do change frequently, DISP is experienced and almost all of our admitted students are granted visas each year. Please visit DISP’s website for additional information on visa requirements.
Housing: We will help you locate housing before you arrive in Hartford. The Law School does not have on-campus housing for students, but there are many apartments and rooms in private homes within walking distance of the School available for rent. While a car is not necessary (and is expensive to insure and operate in the U.S.), if you decide to purchase one you will have many housing options to choose from within an easy 20 minute drive of the Law School.
A Welcoming Hand: We know that for many of you this is your first time in the United States. Our Deputy Director of International Legal Programs works closely with all international students at the Law School and along with Ms. Patricia Carbray, Program Assistant for the Insurance Law Center and Office of Graduate Programs, creates a friendly climate of support and encouragement for students adjusting to both a new country and graduate legal education in the United States.
Orientation: Before fall classes begin we hold an orientation for all new international students, who then join new first year J.D. students for a general introduction to American legal education and the Law School. During orientation you will learn more about your new home, academic life, and U.S. legal education. For the coming fall 2013 term orientation starts on Tuesday, August 20, 2013 and classes begin on Monday, August 26, 2013. All new international LL.M. students must arrive at the Law School no later than Monday, August 19, 2013.
Connecticut and Hartford: For most of you this will also be the first time visiting the State of Connecticut and its capital city, Hartford. Connecticut was founded in 1639 and was one of the original 13 colonies. Connecticut was one of the leaders in bringing industry and commerce to the United States in the 19th Century, and Hartford’s nickname, “The Insurance Capital,” was cemented in that century as Aetna, The Hartford and Travelers were founded and quickly became major insurers in the United States. These companies, and many others, still have their home in Connecticut, which has also become the center of reinsurance and the hedge fund industry for the United States. Connecticut is also known for its lovely fall foliage (see right).
