The George Washington University Law School held its Commencement and Diploma Ceremony this past Sunday, May 16, 2010. Although I graduated from the Master of Laws (LL.M) program in Intellectual Property back in January, all 2010 graduates were invited to participate.
I was eager to hear from First Lady Michelle Obama (law students had a front row seat) and SEC Chairman Mary L. Schapiro (who had some inspiring words on the economy and the profession of law). I was also eager to gain a better understanding of my graduation honors.
The degree of LL.M "With Highest Honors" is awarded to those students who have obtained a cumulative average of at least 3.67. As indicated on my resume, I earned a 3.73.
The George Washington University Law School class of 2010 included 236 LL.M students specializing in a variety of subjects, including environmental law, government procurement law, intellectual property law, international and comparative law, litigation and dispute resolution, and national security and foreign relations law.
Of those 236 graduates, a total of 53 earned an LL.M in intellectual property. Of those 53 intellectual property students, only 3 (i.e. the top 5%) graduated "With Highest Honors."
It is gratifying to have my passion for intellectual property law manifest itself in such an exclusive distinction. The accomplishment is also particularly gratifying given the little known fact that LL.M students compete for marks against Juris Doctor candidates at The George Washington School of Law, which is currently ranked 20th in the nation overall and 3rd in the nation for intellectual property studies.
