Why You Should Choose the Dual JD Program
In a world full of so many options for law schools, how do you choose which one to attend? Surely the experience is fairly similar at each, so does it really matter? The answer is, yes. Though all law schools will provide you with a relatively standard legal education, each school definitely comes with a variety of different potential experiences. I am currently a 2L Dual JD student at the University of Windsor and the University of Detroit Mercy. Below I have compiled a list of reasons why I think you should consider applying to the Dual JD Program!
Qualified to Work in Two Countries
It goes without saying that the major perk of this program, is being able to work in both Canada and the United States upon graduation. This is especially an asset for people who live in border cities, such as myself, who want to remain living in Canada, but potentially pursue employment across the border. This could be for a number of reasons, such as the great exchange rate on the dollar, more variety in practice areas, bigger firms, etc. Even if you have no immediate intentions to work in both Canada and the United States, you may one day want to, especially if your firm has a branch in both countries. I should mention that you also finish law school in three years, just like your Single JD counterparts. The only real difference in programs logistically, is you take afternoon classes for two months in your 1L summer.
Get to Experience Two Cities
Perhaps the coolest part of this program, is being able to experience two vastly different, but very cool cities. I previously wrote an article on “Things to Do in Windsor and the Surrounding Areas”. Take a look at it to see a more comprehensive list of what is available to you on both sides of the border. Quickly though, Detroit is having a huge revitalization and is so awesome to explore. Windsor, albeit far smaller, is cool because you get all of the perks of a big city across the border, but none of the drawbacks. Windsor is quieter, with no traffic, but has its own quaint charm. If you head 30–45 minutes outside of the city, you can also experience really nice cottage and wine country, or take a ferry to Canada’s Southernmost point, Pelee Island!
Cheap Cost of Living in Windsor
As a law student, funds are extremely limited. Living in Windsor is relatively cheap compared to most cities with law school’s in Canada!
Amazing Opportunities on Both Sides of the Border
Because you are attending two law schools, you are exposed to double the amount of resources and opportunities. People in my program have spent summer’s “extern-ing” for federal judges in Detroit, or gone abroad and completed a fellowship through the University of Windsor. You have two career services offices looking to help you find employment on both sides of the border, and you also get some uniquely American and Canadian experiences. For example, you can join Moot Court, which is hugely competitive and respected in the United States, at Detroit Mercy. You can also join Probono Student’s Canada at the University of Windsor, which is widely respected in Canada.
Development of a Serious Work Ethic
Although there are quite a few perks to being qualified to work in both Canada and the United States, it does come with a price; a heavier workload. However, I honestly think in the end that this will prove to be an asset to you. Being a Dual JD student, we do have to take more courses than Single JD students, but I think it ultimately helps you develop an amazing work ethic. This is something that can be marketed in any interview, because it is totally possible and you will be the better for it in the end!
Colleagues in Two Countries
Another huge perk of doing the Dual JD program, is making friends on both sides of the border. This is huge not only for networking post graduation, but for surviving law school in general. The more people you have in your corner, the better! I cannot comment on law student’s experiences at other school’s, but I can comment on my experience as a Dual JD student. The camaraderie we experience as a program is really, really cool. I have heard from upper years as well that their class is just very supportive and fun to be around, and I cannot agree more with this sentiment. With most people in the program coming from cities outside of Windsor, everyone is very eager to branch out and make friends. It has been really cool meeting and becoming close with so many people in my program!
All in all, if you are unsure about which law school you would like to attend, I hope you will consider the Dual JD Program at the University of Windsor and the University of Detroit Mercy. This program was my first choice and I am so happy I was accepted. However, I know that all school’s will have their own set of perks, and if those align more with your long term goals, by all means pursue that!
