Are you in a dual- or combined-degree program? Wondering what life is like at QL if you’re doing a JD+? Steven Bodi (M.A. (Econ)’13, JD ’15) has some great advice for y’all- from Paris!

“Welcome to Queen’s Law! Allow me to say first and foremost that you have made a great choice.

Are you ready to live two lives at once? The first year of your combined-degree program will be different from the experience of J.D. students or peers in your graduate program. At times feelings of isolation may arise because there are few, if any, people in exactly the same situation as you. Be ready to turn to those people and help get each other through the tough times. Make a conscious effort to meet students in both the Faculty of Law and your graduate program.

A combined-degree program is a unique experience that will raise challenges in any situation. The same is true of a second degree program combined with the Juris Doctor. In some respects, pursuing a joint-degree program raises twice as many problems. Be prepared to face double the amount of administrative challenges. But when such challenges do arise, as they always do, keep lines of communication open and turn to administrative staff to assist you. I have found the Faculty of Law administration always willing to help students solve problems. Approach the administration early with a problem, and they will be more than willing to join you in finding a solution.

Notwithstanding the various trials and tribulations of a combined-degree program, a joint program will develop advanced skills while pursuing a legal education. In this sense a combined-degree is, in my opinion, an investment. The education is more likely to generate returns in the long run, either through a specialized legal practice or leveraging the unique education in the private or public spheres. That being said, I believe pursuing a combined-degree program was a contributing factor in my obtaining an internship at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development this summer. I am lucky enough to contribute to Orientation from Paris. Let that be evidence of how your combined education may be used to obtain unique opportunities.

That said, I provide only one student’s perspective, and I encourage you to seek the experience of other students.

One more thing… Be sure to take part in Orientation. The week is packed full of activities and is certainly a great way to enter the Queen’s Law community.”