LLM grads mentor current students through the USC China Career Ambassador Program
USC Gould’s Master of Laws (LLM) is only a one-year program, but that’s long enough to have a substantial impact for graduates like Nick Shu (LLM 2011).
“My time at Gould School of Law instilled in me a sense of community and a desire to give back,” says Shu, equity partner at Han Kun Law Offices in Shanghai. “As an alum, I felt a strong connection to the school and a responsibility to support its students and graduates in their professional journeys. Joining the USC China Career Ambassador Program provided me with a structured platform to contribute my expertise and experiences, allowing me to make a meaningful impact on the next generation of legal professionals.”
The USC China Career Ambassador Program is an initiative of USC China Career Services, which is dedicated to the career development of USC students interested in opportunities in China. Shu joined the program in January 2023.
A seasoned professional, Shu enjoys sharing his career journey with aspiring young professionals. He previously worked as a tax consultant at a Big Four accounting firm; practiced law at White & Case LLP, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, and other major PRC law firms in Beijing and Shanghai; and served as the director of corporate development at Pinduoduo Inc., a leading e-commerce group. He currently has three mentees in the program.
“My role primarily involves providing personalized career guidance and assisting them in refining their resumes to better align with their professional goals,” he says. “I aim to help them navigate their career paths more efficiently and avoid common pitfalls. Witnessing their growth and progress as they begin to form a solid framework for their future endeavors is immensely rewarding.”
Tony He (LLM 2012), a partner with Dentons Shanghai LLP, has been a mentor with the USC China Career Ambassador Program since 2022. During his year in the LLM program, he recognized and appreciated the strong Trojan spirit. And that became his inspiration to stay connected and give back.
“(I wish that) my humble opinion and little experience can help other Trojans,” he says.
He’s mentee, Siling Lin (LLM 2024), said: “I was very eager to chat with Attorney He about long-term goals and short-term goals. Mr. He was very patient in describing the pros and cons of each of my choices, and he used his experiences and insights to explain to me what my core competencies as a lawyer should be. I am very, very grateful to him.”
As an LLM student, Shu participated in events like Trojans in China and webinars hosted by USC China Career Services, which exposed him to a vast network and resources for alumni engagement.
“I am grateful for the opportunities provided by USC and its extensive network, which have enabled me to connect with like-minded individuals and make a positive impact,” Shu says. “I believe that fostering a culture of mentorship and collaboration is essential for the continued success of alumni and current students alike.”
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