About Me
Name
Mike Tiu
Prior Education
University of the Philippines Diliman (JD, 2013; BA, 2009); Central European University (LLM in international business law, 2017)
Before Ann Arbor
I grew up in Oroquieta City, Philippines.
Before My LLM Year
I worked at SyCip Law, the biggest law firm in the Philippines, during the earlier part of my career. In 2017, I changed tracks and became an academic by joining the faculty at the University of the Philippines College of Law.
What Makes Me Different From My Classmates
I was able to experience both big law and academia. I have law teaching experience, and this was an important perspective when I took my classes at Michigan Law.
My Time at Michigan Law
Why I Chose Michigan Law
Michigan Law has the most robust offerings of international law courses. Its international law faculty is excellent and of renown all over the world. I also chose it for the small LLM cohort.
What Makes Michigan Law Special
It truly has the intellectual environment I enjoy. I was able to fully immerse myself in my fields of interest (international law and constitutional law) because of the niche courses offered and the excellent professors who engaged me on cutting-edge legal and policy issues.
The culture is nurturing, and I received nothing but support from the Law School, my professors, and my peers. The small cohort allowed me to know my peers in the LLM program and form meaningful relationships with them.
My Favorite Class
Ethics, Justice, and International Law with Professor Steven Ratner
What Surprised Me Most About Michigan Law
How nurturing and open it is to international students like me.
The Most Difficult Thing About the LLM Year
Overloading myself with the courses I liked. There were too many great choices, and I wanted to take advantage of all the opportunities.
Biggest Hesitation About the LLM Year
Being a student again after years of teaching. I find that I still enjoy it!
The Best Things About Ann Arbor
The people and the intellectual environment.
If I Could Time Travel, I Would Give Myself This Advice at the Start of My LLM Year
Do not max out on the academic credits per semester!
Extracurricular Activities
Michigan Journal of International Law, the Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, International Law Society
Fun Stuff
When I’m Not Studying
I’m reading a nice book at a quirky café.
My Favorite Way to De-stress
Watching past seasons of Survivor.
Favorite Book
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Favorite Movie
Air Force One
Favorite TV Show
The West Wing
Favorite Musical Artist
Regine Velasquez (hello, OPM!)
Favorite Beverage
Coca-Cola
Favorite Food From Home
Pork chop. (I’m sorry, doctor.)
Favorite Food in the United States
Chipotle (haha)
Favorite Item at the Kirkland & Ellis Cafe
Macchiato!