In recent years, UConn Law has consistently attracted students through one of the world’s most prestigious academic opportunities. Four Fulbright scholars from outside the U.S. are seeking their LLM degrees at the law school this year, the most on record at UConn Law.
The Fulbright Program brings international students to schools in the U.S. and gives American students opportunities to study abroad. Selection is highly competitive and varies by country, typically involving a combination of interviews, essays, tests, academic transcripts, and more.
Once selected, scholars choose a host institution. UConn Law has welcomed at least one Fulbright scholar each year since 2020.
“Fulbright scholars are consistently drawn to UConn School of Law for the academic rigor, distinguished faculty, and the opportunity to engage deeply in our specialized LLM programs,” says Director of Graduate Programs Yan Hong. “They also value the strong support from faculty and staff, as well as the law school’s commitment to experiential learning through legal clinics and field placements.”
Saba Elizbarashvili
From Georgia/U.S. Legal Studies LLM
Saba Elizbarashvili was driven to study law by a strong interest in human rights and the challenges that technology poses to individuals and democratic systems. He came to understand that helping others begins with knowing how to protect their rights, and that the law provides the tools to do so.
“UConn School of Law offers a wide range of courses for LLM students, including those in my areas of interest, such as compliance and technology law,” Elizbarashvili says. “The program’s academic diversity and practical approach make it an ideal place to strengthen my expertise.”
After earning his LLM, Elizbarashvili plans to return to Georgia and use his expanded skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on his society and country through legal practice and academic work.
Phearnique Ly
From Cambodia/Energy & Environmental Law LLM
Phearnique Ly was drawn to law by a mix of curiosity, critical thinking, and a desire to understand how legal systems shape everyday life. She enjoys analyzing complex issues, exploring multiple perspectives, and engaging in thoughtful debate.
“I chose UConn Law because its Energy and Environmental Law LLM program is one of the best in the country,” Ly says. “The curriculum is rigorous and deeply relevant to the challenges our world is facing. Additionally, the program offers non-traditional courses that I am really interested in, such as renewable energy and climate change law.”
She also values the program’s small class sizes and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a field placement.
After completing her LLM, Ly plans to return to Cambodia to help strengthen the country’s legal and regulatory frameworks. She hopes to contribute to sustainable energy development and security, as well as responsible investment, through legal practice and part-time teaching at local universities.
Dindi Moreri
From Botswana/Energy & Environmental Law LLM
Dindi Moreri views the law as a powerful tool for problem-solving and social impact. She has long been drawn to the way legal systems shape societies and promote fairness and accountability.
“I chose UConn Law because of its reputation for being both rigorous and supportive,” Moreri says. “It’s widely recognized, and what stood out to me was how much the school genuinely cares about its students’ growth and impact. I also appreciate that UConn creates a space where students are encouraged to think globally but also act locally, which really resonates with my goals.”
Previous work in the environment, social, and governance space sparked Moreri’s interest in energy and environmental law, which is a new academic area for her. Her work showed how much law and policy influence the success of environmental goals. She hopes to use her LLM to work with a non-governmental organization operating in both the U.S. and Africa, where she can help bridge perspectives between the Global North and South on climate change and sustainability.
Mirjami Ylinen
From Finland/ Energy & Environmental Law LLM
Mirjami Ylinen pursued a legal education to gain the tools needed to create change in the causes she cares about. Initially drawn to international law and human rights, she found that environmental law brings together many of the issues that matter most to her.
“I was intrigued by UConn Law’s emphasis on public interest as well as good law clinic and field placement opportunities,” Ylinen says. “I wanted to go to a smaller law school with the possibility to form close connections with the professors and other students.”
The school’s location in New England and a recommendation from an LLM graduate also helped confirm her decision.
Ylinen has worked as a lawyer in various municipal and state agencies in Finland, with experience in real estate, land use, energy efficiency, and renewable energy regulation. After completing her LLM, Ylinen hopes to continue advancing energy and climate policy, both in practice and through research. She is also considering pursuing a Ph.D. in the future.
