The International Legal Studies Program awards a scholarship to an entering first-year law student in memory of the late Raymonde I. Paul, who developed a diverse practice in international law and participated extensively in the International Federation of Women lawyers. The recipient of the scholarship named in her honor will be a student who shows a demonstrated interest both in international law and in participating actively in the International Legal Studies Program at Vanderbilt. All admitted students will be considered for this scholarship as an integral element of the admissions process.
Ones W. Polk II International Studies Stipend
The Ones W. Polk II International Studies Legal Fund provides a stipend of up to $1,500 each year to a student in financial need for a summer externship relating to international law. The fund, established by a generous gift from Mr. Polk's family and the members of the Class of 1998, commemorates Ones W. Polk II, a member of the VULS Class of 1998 who had a strong interest in international affairs.
International Legal Studies
Vanderbilt’s International Legal Studies Program prepares students to practice law in a global environment by combining substantive classroom exposure to cutting-edge topics in international law with practical experience in their application through the International Law Practice Lab and annual externships. Directed by Professor Larry Helfer, the program’s core faculty includes respected scholars with expertise in key areas of international law. Students also have the opportunity to interact with other top international legal practitioners and scholars who come to Vanderbilt to participate in lectures and scholarly conferences sponsored by the International Legal Studies program.
International Legal Studies Faculty
Larry Helfer, Director, International Legal Studies - Expertise: International human rights law, international intellectual property law, and international dispute settlement
Ingrid Brunk Wuerth - Expertise: Comparative law, conflict of laws, international law in constitutional interpretation
Michael Newton, former Senior Advisor to the United States Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes - Expertise: Laws of war
James Bacchus, former Chairman of the World Trade Organization’s Appellate Body (Adjunct Professor)
International Legal Studies Curriculum
Students in the International Legal Studies Program choose elective courses addressing the full spectrum of 21st century international legal issues as well as courses in comparative law. Short courses offered each year focus on special topics. As the connections between international law and other legal disciplines continue to increase, Vanderbilt will continue to expand its academic, clinical and externship opportunities.
Advisory Council for International Affairs
Vanderbilt Law School plays a leading role in the university’s interdisciplinary international outreach initiatives. In addition to directing the International Legal Studies program, Professor Larry Helfer serves on Vanderbilt University’s Advisory Council for International Affairs, a group of scholars from every area of Vanderbilt University whose role is to establish partnerships with foreign universities and foster student and faculty exchanges.