GPLLM student celebrates U of T Law’s 75th anniversary with a networking challenge, one conversation at a time
When I set out to meet 75 lawyers before I graduated from the Global Professional Master of Laws (GPLLM) program at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, I wasn’t entirely sure how it would go. I had heard about this concept from JD students in the United States who often aim to meet 100 lawyers before they finish their three years of law school. The idea stuck with me! As someone who loves connecting with people, it seemed like the perfect way to celebrate U of T Law’s 75th anniversary while growing as a professional.
Why I Set This Goal
My journey at U of T began in September 2024, but my connection with this community started earlier. Back in 2022, I came to Toronto as a researcher and was immediately impressed by U of T’s legal network. Attending the 75th anniversary gala this fall solidified my admiration. The event was filled with stories of past deans, alumni, and students who’ve made their mark in the legal world. It inspired me to dive deeper into this incredible community by setting a goal to meet 75 legal professionals before I graduate in 2025.
I am a legal professional with international experience, currently building my career in the Canadian legal market. Before coming to Canada, I had the privilege of working as a legal extern at the Arizona Supreme Court and serving as a judicial clerk at the Roraima State Court of Appeals in Brazil. I’ve learned that networking isn’t just about chatting and making connections. It’s been a way to understand the challenges and opportunities in the legal market from those who have been through it.
Progress So Far
So far, I’ve connected with 35 lawyers. If I count conversations from before I set this goal, the number would be closer to 50 already. But I wanted this journey to have a fresh start, so I started from scratch. Each meeting has been more than just a name added to a list: it’s been an opportunity to hear personal stories, understand diverse perspectives, and gain practical advice.
Lessons from Conversations
One piece of advice that resonated deeply with me came from a corporate lawyer who encouraged me to stay curious and open to opportunities outside my immediate goals. They emphasized that adaptability and a willingness to explore can lead to unexpected but rewarding paths.
Another theme that has emerged is the importance of authenticity. Many lawyers I’ve spoken to stressed the value of building genuine relationships, not just transactional ones. People are more willing to help and share their experiences when they sense sincerity in your approach.
Later this year, I will release a booklet of quotes from these conversations. To give you an idea, here are a few selections from the discussions:
“Don’t lose sight of the basics that you learned in kindergarten. Be kind, respectful and listen to others. As I write this, I am working opposite five U of T classmates on various transactions. Maintaining a professional and friendly relationship not only makes the job more enjoyable, but it often keeps the work focused and leads to a better result for all parties involved.”
“Always keep the big picture in mind. When you start out as a new attorney, ask thoughtful questions. Find out how your contribution fits into the larger project, be it complex litigation or a commercial transaction or anything in between. Don’t just go through the motions—take the time to understand why you’re doing what you’re doing. Curiosity and drive to learn are what define great lawyers.”
My Networking Approach
Networking can feel daunting, especially in a new country or industry, but I’ve found a few strategies that work well:
1. Start with curiosity: I approach each conversation as a chance to learn, not just to expand my network. This mindset helps me stay open and engaged.
2. Leverage LinkedIn: I often reach out to lawyers with a simple, thoughtful message, explaining why I’d like to connect and what I admire about their work.
3. Be intentional: rather than aiming just for quick meetings, I focus on making each interaction meaningful. This includes researching the person’s background and preparing thoughtful questions in advance. I am happy to report that I got to meet with many of these professionals in person!
4. Follow up: a simple thank-you email or LinkedIn message after the meeting goes a long way in leaving a positive impression and keeping the connection alive.
Why Stories Matter
As someone who produces a podcast called Studying Law Around the World, I’m passionate about storytelling. Over the past few years, I’ve interviewed guests from 19 countries and produced over 40 episodes. These conversations have taught me the power of sharing experiences—not just as a way to connect, but as a way to inspire others.
This passion for stories extends to my networking goal. Every lawyer I meet has a unique journey, and hearing how they’ve navigated their careers motivates me to keep going, even when challenges arise.
Advice for Other Students
If you’re considering a similar networking challenge, my advice is simple: be bold but respectful. Don’t hesitate to reach out to someone whose career you admire, and approach the conversation with a genuine interest in their experiences. Networking isn’t just about job opportunities, it’s about learning, growing, and building relationships that can last a lifetime.
It’s also important to remember that networking takes time. You won’t form meaningful connections overnight, but consistency and sincerity will pay off.
Looking Ahead
With more than 40 lawyers still to meet, I know the road ahead will be busy, but I’m excited for the journey. Each conversation helps me feel more connected to the Canadian legal community and more confident about my own path.
Do you know of any U of T Law alumni with whom I would benefit from meeting? I’d appreciate an introduction.
U of T’s 75th anniversary is a reminder of the incredible legacy of this institution and the community it fosters. I’m grateful to be part of it and to celebrate it, one conversation at a time.