About Me
Name
Mayumi Sano
Prior Education
University of Tokyo (JD, 2016); Chuo University (LLB, 2014).
Before Ann Arbor
I grew up in Fukushima, Japan.
Before My LLM Year
I was a lawyer in Japan, mainly handling corporate litigation. Before that, I worked as a judge.
What Makes Me Different From My Classmates
I came here with my husband and child. My husband is a research scholar at Michigan Law.
My Time at Michigan Law
Why I Chose Michigan Law
One of the reasons I chose Michigan Law is its small LLM class size, which allowed me to build good relationships during the year.
In addition, Ann Arbor is surrounded by nature, and it’s safe and family friendly. It is a wonderful place to live and study, especially for students who are bringing their kids along.
What Makes Michigan Law Special
The people here are what really make Michigan Law stand out! Faculty, staff, and students have been kind and welcoming from the start. I took a class with JD students where we worked in groups, and they were friendly and willing to help each other.
My Favorite Classes
Civil Procedure with Professor Christopher J. Walker and Contracting in Complex Transactions with Professor George Kimball.
What Surprised Me Most About Michigan Law
How professors engage with students. They know students by name and casually say hi when I run into them around campus. It’s a small thing, but it really made me feel at home.
Biggest Hesitation About the LLM Year
I wasn’t sure if I could keep up with the coursework. The teaching style is very different from what I was used to in Japan, and I worried about whether I could handle all the assignments. But those concerns faded as I went through the program. Professors are always happy to help during office hours, and my classmates have been incredibly kind.
Favorite Study Spot
Sub-2 of the Underground Library.
The Best Things About Ann Arbor
The music scene is one of the things I love most about Ann Arbor. Hill Auditorium hosts a wide variety of concerts throughout the year, from jazz to classical and beyond. I’ve enjoyed performances by groups like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Extracurricular Activities
LLM representative for the International Law Society.
Fun Stuff
When I’m Not Studying
I like singing songs and reading picture books with my child.
My Favorite Way to De-stress
Simply looking out the window at home. Deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds pass by on a daily basis.
Favorite Book
Letter by Keigo Higashino.
Favorite Movie
Catch Me If You Can.
Favorite Beverage
Roasted green tea
Favorite Food From Home
Ramen.
Favorite Food in the United States
Pizza!
Favorite Item at the Kirkland & Ellis Cafe
Matcha tea latte. I always order this!