Leo and I were thrilled to share our patent study at the Journal of Technology and Intellectual Property Symposium (JTIP). However, we were nervous; we wondered whether our MSL project would be on par with the studies done by JD students. Going in, we hoped not to let down the lawyers earning Continuing Legal Education credits, the professors that encouraged us to present, and our fellow MSL students. It turned out our fears were unfounded, and the event was a blast for us and the audience. We encourage future MSL students to take advantage of similar opportunities.
Take Part in Independent Studies
In addition to the MSL courses, students can enroll in certain cross-discipline courses and independent studies with professors. Leo and I did a study with Professor Schwartz on patents in the prison industry. In the study, we examined an industry giant’s intellectual property (its patents) from an entrepreneur’s point of view. What could a small company do against a big one? We created a patent list on an industry leader, we studied the leader’s litigation history, and we read one patent more thoroughly. Giving us firsthand experience in legal work, the study taught us complications involved in research. Further, it showed us some lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. I’d recommend such work to any students who love to learn by doing.
By the way, for those business-minded readers, we had 3 lessons for the entrepreneur:
1) Do a patent landscape.
2) Let the big boys fight each other.
3) Use cheaper mechanisms (versus litigation); challenge patents through the patent board.
Push to Learn New Skills
What a coincidence that Leo and I were enrolled in a class Public Persuasion while preparing for the presentation. Both of us, uncomfortable with public speaking, saw the JTIP presentation as a chance to put theory to practice. This was the perfect outlet: a good 30 minutes where students and professors would be forced to listen to us (I know… how devious!). Leo and I went through multiple iterations. We picked at confusing parts. We reworded sections into stories. We wanted to show that even former engineering students giving a patent speech – stereotypically dry people with a dry topic – could be a heartfelt, captivating event.
Did we succeed? Surely, we had fun. And our classmates approved. Moreover, someone managed to videotape a section and send it to my mom; she says I have a nice speaking voice. That’s a big enough thumbs up for me. Thanks, Mom!
Join the MSL Community
We were grateful to present our topic in front of the school. The room was tightly packed, and it was enjoyable to get our message across. More than
that, we were excited to see so many MSLers come for support. MSL students wished us luck before the presentation, they reminded each other to come, and one student even created a Facebook event.
There is something noticeably different about the MSL program. Maybe it’s just the right number of students, or maybe it’s the nurturing MSL staff. Whatever the case, students in this program are always there for each other. With this support, we are ready to build on ourselves for the future.
Eric Yim (MSL ’17)
