It can be a major decision to pursue a graduate degree after several years in the workforce and away from the classroom, especially in a new country. However, Bruno Régis’ experience at Ohio State provided him with new knowledge and world class resources to help him achieve his academic and personal goals.
Régis decided on Columbus and Ohio State for its reputation for a high quality of life in a smaller urban city, something important for his wife and newborn daughter. In the Master of Laws program at the Moritz College of Law, he immediately noticed the environment of academic excellence.
“The classroom discussions, which focused on the analysis of legal cases, were extremely enriching, both academically and personally. The respect shown for differing opinions—especially on the part of the professors—made us feel comfortable expressing our viewpoints, no matter how much they differed from the majority opinion,” shared Régis.
Although the adjustment in the early stage of his program to being away from friends and family was noticeable, as Régis progressed semester by semester, he came to appreciate the wealth of resources at Ohio State. Through classmates, faculty and campus opportunities, he was able to accomplish his goals and gain some incredible learning experiences.
“Academically, one of the highlights of my experience was completing an externship at the Ohio Education Association, where I was able to put my knowledge of Labor and Employment Law into practice. Another highlight was the final project for the Legal Writing class, in which we simulated a mock trial based on a memorandum we developed throughout the semester, under the guidance of Professor Katrina Lee.”
From experiencing his first winter season to watching American sports like football and ice hockey in Columbus and even becoming a father for the first time, Régis made incredible memories during his time at Ohio State, which were richened by his support network of classmates from around the world and members of the community.
“My arrival in Columbus and my first interactions with the university and the other students in the LL.M. program were unforgettable. From the very beginning, a connection was formed that grew and deepened throughout the program,” Régis shared. “Interacting with classmates from more than 15 countries—from Argentina to Kenya, from France to South Korea, including Palestine, Venezuela and India—provided an invaluable cultural exchange through dinners, study groups and bonds that we will carry with us for the rest of our lives.”
After graduating in May 2025, Régis is back in Brazil working as a partner at Urbano Vitalino Advogados, Brazil’s largest full-service law firm, with a wealth of new knowledge and a commitment to sharing his experience with prospective Buckeyes.
“More than just professional growth, I return to my country with me a mission to promote—especially in the Northeast region of Brazil—the prestige of The Ohio State University and to show prospective students that the LL.M. at Moritz is a transformative experience, capable of combining academic excellence with an unforgettable sense of community.”