About Me

Name

Andrea Leycano

Prior Education

University of the Philippines Diliman (BA, 2002; LLB, 2007)

Before Ann Arbor

I lived in Manila, Philippines. I also lived in Tokyo, Japan for some time.

Before My LLM Year

I was (and still am) a foreign service officer in the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines.

What Sets Me Apart

At 41 years old, I have worked for more than a decade. It was nice to be in the company of people in different stages of their professional lives. I treasure the friendships I have made with the other LLMs and JD students. Each person has a remarkable story, and I love hearing about them!

Biggest Hesitation About the LLM Year

I wasn’t sure if going back to school was ideal at this point in my life and career. However, being at Michigan Law allowed me to retreat from the very busy life I lead, and at the same time push towards getting an academic perspective on what I have been doing in my work as a diplomat.

My Time at Michigan Law

Why I Chose Michigan Law

I wanted to be at a top-tier university that had good international law offerings, and the University of the Philippines (where I obtained my undergraduate degrees) has long-standing connections to the University of Michigan. I also needed a break from my work, and I thought that being in a smaller city would be a nice change from the usual locations of my normal professional life, which are always in capital cities or metropolises.

My Favorite Class

Negotiations by Professor George Kimball and Feedback Loops by Professor Patrick Barry.

The Best Thing about Michigan Law

I can choose the subjects that interest me.  

The Best Thing About Ann Arbor

The serenity and chill pace. This is where I learned to be still. Ann Arbor is a great environment that fosters learning. 

The Most Difficult Thing about the LLM Year

Adjusting to a new country is always challenging. I had to make sure I was physically, mentally, and psychologically able to go back to law school and do some rigorous studying after working for so long.

Fun Stuff

When I’m Not Studying

I’m walking around campus and discovering new places in Ann Arbor.

Favorite Book

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Favorite Movie

Life is Beautiful

Favorite TV Shows

The Big Bang Theory, anything Star Trek

Favorite Band

Mr. Big

Favorite Beverage

Coffee! I love Bitty and Beau, a coffee shop in downtown Ann Arbor. They hire differently abled employees, the vibe is nice, and the walk from the Law School to the shop allows me to think.

Favorite Food From Home

Sinigang, adobo, and kare-kare

Favorite Food in the United States

Steaks done right. Also, I usually go to Frank’s Restaurant on weekends. It is a no-frills place, but they serve breakfast comfort food. 

Favorite item at the Law School’s Kirkland & Ellis Café

Coffee! K&E saved me before morning classes.