Welcome to Brief Encounters: Law School & Beyond, a podcast by Project LLM. The series explores journeys of Indian professionals who have pursued legal education abroad. The goal is to bring out stories, experiences, and practical advice to inspire and guide others considering an overseas legal education.
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Mishita Jethi, a distinguished attorney licensed to practice in both New York and India. Ms. Jethi currently serves as a Partner at Chugh, LLP in New York, where she brings extensive expertise in corporate and business immigration law. She holds an LL.M. from the prestigious University of Chicago, where she specialized in Public Law and Commercial Dispute Resolution. With a rich professional background and a deep understanding of cross-border legal issues, she has made a significant mark in the field of immigration law.
Was pursuing a legal career always part of your plan, or did this interest in the field evolve over time? What were the specific experiences or influences that helped shape your decision to follow this path?
Sure, for me, it was something that developed gradually. I was always interested in debates and elocution during my school years. I enjoyed expressing my views, and I discovered that I was fairly persuasive when speaking. People would often say, “She’s going to grow up to be a lawyer,” and that started to influence me. Even though I took science subjects in the 11th and 12th grade, as many Indian families suggest to keep options open, I found myself more inclined towards law.
I wrote entrance exams for both engineering and law schools, but I realized through the engineering exam process that it wasn’t exciting to me. My grandfather, whom I never met, was a lawyer, and while my family didn’t have a direct connection to law, there was a distant tie that intrigued me. It was during my application process that I became sure that engineering was not for me and that law was the right path. By the 11th and 12th grade, I was quite clear about wanting to pursue law.
I think it’s important that whether you take up law or any other profession, it should come from within. I’ve seen many people who, at a certain age, realize that they made career choices to please their families rather than themselves. When I told my parents that I wanted to pursue law, they were initially hesitant since no one except my grandfather, whom I never met, was a lawyer. But after some discussion, they supported my decision because they valued my happiness and wanted me to pursue what would bring me fulfillment, not just during my studies but throughout life. They didn’t want me to feel pressured into a career choice because of societal or family expectations.
You completed your undergraduate studies nearly a decade and a half ago. How would you say those formative five years at NLU impacted your personal and professional development?
I really had a great time during those five years. It was the first time I lived independently, stepping out of my comfort zone and home. Personally, living in a hostel taught me a lot; it was my first experience of interacting with people from various backgrounds. In college, I encountered students from different parts of India—Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Mumbai, among others. This diversity exposed me to various perspectives, which helped me form my own opinions.
The small class size at NLU, with just under 80 students, allowed us to form deep friendships. We were able to build a strong community, interacting closely across batches. Professionally, the five years provided me with the foundational skills for my legal career—how to read and analyze case law, summarize key points, develop arguments, and understand different perspectives. All of these skills were slowly built up during my time there, and I owe much of my professional growth to those formative years.
Could you share insights on how you managed the application process for your LL.M. program? Did you rely on the support of seniors or colleagues, or did you engage an external consultant?
Yes, I had very supportive seniors, both from law school and colleagues I had worked with. By the time I applied for my LL.M., I had completed nearly two and a half years of work experience at what was then known as Amarchand & Mangaldas, which is now divided into CAM and SAM. I received generous guidance from seniors who had gone through the same process. They reviewed my application materials, including my personal statements and letters of recommendation, offering valuable insights.
The trend when I graduated was to work for a few years before pursuing an LL.M. abroad to gain international exposure. While many of us had it in mind to possibly work abroad after the LL.M., the immediate focus was simply on getting into the program. My network of seniors and colleagues was instrumental in helping me navigate the process, particularly in selecting suitable colleges and refining my application strategy.
What factors motivated you to pursue an LL.M. in the US as opposed to other countries, and what parameters did you consider while choosing the University of Chicago Law School?
I was initially torn between the UK and the US. When I spoke to people who had completed their master’s in the UK, they mentioned that the teaching style was somewhat similar to the approach in India, particularly in terms of how case law was taught. On the other hand, those who had studied in the US described the use of the Socratic method, which intrigued me. I thought it would offer a different experience from my law school education in India, so I decided to explore the US.
Regarding the University of Chicago, my decision was partly influenced by my conversations with peers. At the time, my friend Joshua was pursuing his LL.M. there, and he shared his positive experiences. He mentioned the small class size—just about 60 students—which appealed to me. The opportunity to take cross-disciplinary courses at other schools within the university, like the Booth School of Business, also stood out.
I applied to several universities, including Columbia, NYU, Berkeley, and Chicago, and got admitted to most except Harvard. Eventually, it came down to a choice between Columbia and Chicago. The University of Chicago offered a 50% tuition waiver, which was a significant factor, as I was funding the program myself. The small class size and the familiarity of a more intimate environment, similar to my experience at NLU, helped me decide. In hindsight, it was one of the best decisions I made, both professionally and personally.
How did you choose your recommenders for the LL.M. application, and what key factors should be considered when selecting them?
I selected recommenders based on the subjects I intended to study during my LL.M. For instance, I had an interest in courses related to economic analysis of law and public choice, so I approached professors who had taught me relevant subjects at NLU. I also evaluated my performance in those courses to ensure I chose professors who could speak positively about my academic skills.
I tailored my recommendation letters based on each university’s focus. For example, for Yale, I asked a professor who taught jurisprudence and constitutional law—subjects that were highly academic. For the University of Chicago, I emphasized commercial and economics-related subjects. Additionally, I included a recommendation from a senior colleague at work to reflect my professional experience.
It’s important to tailor recommendation letters based on the university and track you’re pursuing, tying them into your statement of purpose. Having a mix of academic and professional recommendations can strengthen your application, provided your employer is supportive of your LL.M. plans.
What advice would you give on writing the Statement of Purpose (SOP) for the LL.M. application?
The SOP should genuinely reflect who you are and why you want to pursue the LL.M. When reviewing your law school experience and any work history, you might find common themes—whether through the electives you chose or the type of work you did. Highlighting these themes can help create a cohesive narrative.
It’s crucial to have a deeper story beyond just gaining international experience or adding the LL.M. to your resume. Having a specific focus, like international arbitration or banking and finance, and aligning your choice of universities accordingly can make your application more compelling.
For those who have a particular passion or career path, selecting universities with specialized programs in that area ensures you’re surrounded by like-minded peers and faculty. General programs are great if you want broad exposure, but if you have a niche interest, research universities that support it and emphasize this in your SOP. Admissions committees value applicants whose stories align with the program’s strengths.
If you apply to a specialized program with a generic SOP, the committee may not see you as a fit. Conversely, if your CV is highly specific and matches a university’s focus, it strengthens your application.
Could you expand on your experience with the Socratic method at the University of Chicago Law School, and how should students choose their courses to build the most suitable curriculum for themselves?
When choosing my courses, one thing that stood out at the University of Chicago, and is likely similar across US law schools, is the flexibility offered at the start of the semester. While there are mandatory courses, most classes are electives, and you must sign up quickly as seats fill up fast. Many students pick courses based on the professors. For example, in my class, people chose courses taught by Professor Stone, known for his work in constitutional law, simply because of his reputation.
There’s also a period called “add-drop” where you can audit classes. You attend the first lecture to see if it’s a good fit. If not, you have the option to drop it, allowing you to build your curriculum thoughtfully. This flexibility, which wasn’t available during my time studying in India, really helped me. I took advantage of it to craft a mix of courses I was genuinely interested in, like Public Choice, Economic Analysis of Law, and Antitrust Law.
Regarding the Socratic method, it was a stark difference from my education in India. The method requires you to always be prepared because you can be called upon at any time. It goes beyond just summarizing case law; you need to provide your opinion and engage critically. Sometimes, you might even need to counter a classmate’s viewpoint, which forces you to listen actively and think on your feet. This method instilled a strong sense of self-study and engagement, something I appreciated greatly.
You received the Dean’s Certificate of Recognition for completing the pro bono pledge during your LL.M. Could you share more about this achievement and the pro bono work you undertook?
The year I was at law school, the New York bar changed its requirements to include 50 hours of pro bono work in addition to the bar exam. This accelerated our engagement with pro bono work, and it gave us the chance to explore practical law outside the classroom. For most of us LL.M. students, who came from different judicial systems and had practiced law in our home countries, this was an invaluable experience to see how law operates practically in the US.
I volunteered at an elder law clinic and an immigration clinic in Chicago. Every Sunday, I would travel to downtown Chicago to volunteer. At the elder law clinic, I handled intake work, where I assessed cases and determined whether they were suitable for pro bono representation or if clients could manage procedures themselves. This helped allocate limited resources efficiently. At the immigration clinic, I assisted people seeking naturalization, helping them understand whether they needed legal representation.
These experiences were deeply gratifying. It was fulfilling to contribute practically and give back to the community while gaining insights into the legal system here.
Considering the short duration of 11 months in the city, what were the biggest challenges you faced, both academically and personally? What practical tips would you give to students thinking of pursuing an LL.M. abroad?
Reaching out to alumni who have studied at the law school you plan to attend is crucial. Small things like housing and transportation can become significant challenges when you’re living abroad for the first time. For example, it was my first time moving outside India, and I had to figure out basics like groceries and public transportation. If campus housing isn’t available, it’s helpful to talk to someone who has navigated these challenges before.
If possible, arrive a month earlier than your program start date. The F-1 visa allows you to enter the country 30 days in advance, and using this time to acclimate to the city and your surroundings can be beneficial. It helps to familiarize yourself with transport routes and other local aspects, which makes you feel more at home.
Your choice of accommodation should align with your goals for the year. If your focus is purely academic, it’s better to live close to campus. However, if you’re there to network and build professional connections, like some of my colleagues who were mid-career professionals, living downtown might be more advantageous. Clarity about your goals before you arrive is essential. Reflecting back, I wish I had been clearer about my objectives, as more planning could have helped me maximize my experience.
Additionally, understanding the climate is important. Chicago’s winter was my first experience with snow, and the cold impacted me significantly, even leading to seasonal affective disorder. Arriving prepared for the climate can make a big difference.
What should foreign-trained lawyers know about eligibility, preparation, and favorable states for taking the US bar exam?
New York and California are the most common states for foreign-trained attorneys to sit for the bar, but other states like Texas and Connecticut also allow it. Since COVID-19, the process has become slower, so it’s important to prepare in advance. When I applied, you had to submit your documents to the New York State Bar in early October or November, and eligibility results would come back in about three months. It’s essential to verify eligibility early and complete any required courses, like American legal history or legal writing.
Research the bar requirements before you start law school so you can plan your courses accordingly. Some subjects might be mandatory for the bar exam, and it’s wise to complete them early. However, if you don’t plan to take the bar, you might prefer to use your credits for other specialized subjects. The decision to take the bar depends on your career goals, especially if you’re focusing on niche areas like international arbitration, where a US bar license might not be necessary.
In terms of preparation, the bar exam format differs significantly from what we experience in India. The IRAC (Issue, Rule, Application, Conclusion) method of answering questions is crucial, and I struggled with it initially because it wasn’t part of my training in India. If you plan to take the bar, start familiarizing yourself with this format and practice as early as possible.
The bar exam is also physically demanding. My exam was seven hours each day, split into two sessions. It requires not just knowledge but also the stamina to sit for long periods and focus. I wish I had practiced sitting for extended hours earlier, as it took time for me to adjust to concentrating for such long durations.
You’ve reached a remarkable milestone as a partner in your legal career. Could you share your reflections on the common challenges faced by recent graduates in the US job market, and what advice would you offer them?
Thank you for the kind words. Reflecting on my journey, it wasn’t something I planned meticulously. I originally intended to return to India after my LL.M. and resume work there. However, circumstances changed when my husband moved to the US with his company. At the end of my LL.M., I used my one-year OPT (Optional Practical Training) period to gain work experience in Washington, DC, without the intention of staying permanently.
If I could offer advice, it would be to network early. I didn’t initially, as I viewed my time in the US as temporary. Once I decided to stay, I had to send out numerous emails and applications. LinkedIn was in its early stages then, and I reached out to many contacts using keywords like “India, LL.M., New York.” One of these connections led me to my current boss, Ms. Matthews, who needed an attorney just as I was looking for a job. It was a fortunate match.
For recent graduates, I would advise starting networking efforts while still in law school or early in your OPT period. Make yourself known to potential employers through informational interviews and connections so they recognize you when you apply. Cold emailing can work, as it did for me, but building a network ahead of time is more effective. The job market offers various pathways beyond law firms, and it’s about researching and being open to different opportunities.
Navigating the transition from an F-1 visa to an H-1B visa is a critical step for international students. Could you walk us through the typical process?
For international students on an F-1 visa, you get one year of OPT after completing your LL.M., allowing you to work without sponsorship as long as the work is related to your field of study. Since the LL.M. is not a STEM field, you only have this one year, unlike STEM graduates who get three years. Use this time strategically to work for employers who might sponsor you for an H-1B visa.
If you don’t get selected in the H-1B lottery, consider working for employers with international offices. For example, if you work for a law firm with a London or Singapore office, you could work there for a year or more and then return to the US on an L-1 visa as an intra-company transferee. It’s essential to have these conversations with your employer early so both parties are prepared for this possibility.
Another option is to target nonprofits or higher education institutions eligible for cap-exempt H-1B visas, which aren’t subject to the lottery. Research these alternatives, and if needed, consult an immigration attorney to understand your options better. Employers in law might not be as familiar with visa pathways as those in IT, so you may need to advocate for yourself and inform them of available options. Being proactive and well-informed can make a significant difference in your job prospects.
You are currently serving as the President-Elect of the South Asian Bar Association (SABA) of the New Jersey chapter. Could you explain what SABA is and its mission, and how did your journey with them begin?
Thank you! The South Asian Bar Association of New Jersey is a nonprofit organization dedicated to furthering the cause of South Asian attorneys. SABA has a national body, and each state has its own chapter. Our mission is to foster relationships between South Asian attorneys and other attorneys of color. Given that South Asian attorneys are still a minority, our focus is on providing support and advocating for their advancement.
SABA also supports South Asian law students, providing mentorship opportunities and connecting them with practicing attorneys. My journey with SABA started in 2018 when a colleague encouraged me to attend meetings. Eventually, I joined the executive board, serving as treasurer and secretary. It’s a platform where South Asian attorneys can network, see role models in leadership positions, and aspire to similar achievements.
What type of events does SABA organize, and who is eligible to become a member? Are there mentorship or scholarship opportunities for South Asian students?
SABA organizes various events throughout the year, all aimed at supporting South Asian attorneys and law students. We have our flagship gala, a major fundraiser where attorneys, politicians, and public servants gather. It’s an excellent networking opportunity. We also hold smaller events, such as judge receptions and mentorship programs.
For law students, membership is free, and they are encouraged to volunteer. We offer a bar stipend, where students write essays and are awarded funds to help cover their academic expenses. Our mentor-mentee program connects students and early-career attorneys with experienced professionals. We also host corporate counsel events and specialized programs like the LL.M. Pathways event, where foreign-trained attorneys share their journeys in the US. These initiatives help build strong professional networks and provide essential guidance.
Pursuing an LL.M. in the US is a significant financial commitment. Do you believe the long-term benefits outweigh the costs, and what strategies can students adopt to overcome financial barriers?
Deciding to pursue an LL.M. is deeply personal, and finances play a major role. The costs aren’t just monetary; they include leaving behind familiar surroundings, family, and secure jobs. It’s important to have a backup plan in case things don’t go as expected, like not landing the desired job. Ensure you have a way to repay any loans even if you return to your home country.
Some students mitigate financial challenges by working for several years before applying, which gives them savings and clarity about their goals. Applying for scholarships, seeking tuition waivers, and exploring loan options in the US are other avenues. It’s also crucial to reach out to universities, as they may offer additional financial support if they are keen to have you as a student. Always have a secondary plan and make sure that, regardless of the job market in the US, you have a way to manage your debt responsibly.
What message would you like to share with young women entering the legal profession, especially considering the challenges and opportunities in the Indian legal market?
I would encourage young women to dream big despite the challenges. Whether it’s being a woman attorney, an immigrant attorney, or a person of color, there will be obstacles, but these should not deter you. Many trailblazers have paved the way, and today, there are communities and networks cheering for the next generation.
If you reach out, you will find mentorship opportunities and support, whether in India or abroad. Remember that challenges are only as big as we make them, and willpower is stronger. With determination and a clear goal, you will find a way to overcome obstacles and achieve your ambitions.
(This transcript is based on the original interview’s audio. It is a refined version and may contain minor errors, omissions, or variations from the verbatim recording. For the guest’s exact inputs and sentiments, please listen to the podcast episode.)
