Meet Pearl Addo: “My Journey from LLM to JD at UConn Law”

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Photo of JD student Pearl Addo from Ghana
Pearl Addo, JD Student at UConn School of Law

As we reflect on International Education Week, we’re proud to highlight the global experiences and diverse perspectives that strengthen our UConn Law community. In that spirit, we are delighted to share the journey of LLM to JD student Pearl Addo, whose path embodies resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of international education.  In addition to being a JD student, Pearl also works in the International Programs department at UConn Law as an International Professional Development and Exchange Specialist with International Programs.

Below, in her own words, Pearl reflects on the path that brought her here and the perspectives she hopes to share.

“Hi everyone! I’m Pearl Addo, an LLM to JD student at UConn School of Law.  My journey has been one of courage, faith, and determination. As the first daughter and grandchild in my family to earn a college degree, I always dreamed of becoming the first lawyer in my family — and I made that dream come true when I was called to the Bar in Ghana in 2021.

When I moved to the U.S. in 2017, I was encouraged to take a more “stable” career path in Healthcare, but I knew my calling was law. That conviction led me to the University of Ghana School of Law and eventually to UConn Law, where I earned my LLM in Energy and Environmental Law.

My time at UConn Law has been truly transformative. The coursework, field placement experience, and amazing community have shaped me both personally and professionally. Now, as an LLM to JD Advanced Standing student, I’m continuing to build on that foundation. Every challenge I’ve faced has only made me more determined to make an impact wherever I find myself.

I’m so proud to be part of a community that values inclusion, excellence, and growth — and to keep growing here at UConn Law!”

We are grateful to Pearl for sharing her inspiring story and for the strength, perspective, and purpose she brings to the UConn Law community. Her journey is a reminder of the power of determination — and of the many ways our students shape the future of law both locally and globally.