Why Loyola

An Unexpected Route: How Rejection Altered My IP Journey

The Rejection Waitlisted. Well, technically not waitlisted. The email for the specialized intellectual property (“IP”) Legal Writing course called me “an alternate.” In my head, that was the same as being rejected. Alas, I gave up on my career aspirations in IP before the first day of law school. I’m kidding. In part. The rejection did happen. But, that rejection was actually the beginning of … Continue reading An Unexpected Route: How Rejection Altered My IP Journey

Jacob Yeskis
Loyola Spotlight

Trademarking His Tune: Connor Druhan’s Journey from Jazz to Intellectual Property Law

Connor Druhan currently works as a trademark examining attorney at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Connor is a recent graduate from Loyola University Chicago School of Law, where he focused his studies on Intellectual Property (IP) law. Before law school, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies and English from DePaul University. He realized through coursework in both of his majors at … Continue reading Trademarking His Tune: Connor Druhan’s Journey from Jazz to Intellectual Property Law

Griffin Topel
Copyrights

“Not Like Us” – Lessons in Copyright

Introduction In this post, I will explore the nuances in music copyright law using Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” as a case study. This famous diss track should be well known either from the Superbowl Halftime Show, or from its major success at the Grammys. This famous song can help illustrate the complexity involved in music ownership and the copyright rights of music through public … Continue reading “Not Like Us” – Lessons in Copyright

Alexandra Shoup
IP + Health

The Secret Lives of “Knockoff” Drugs: The Truth Behind Generic Drugs and the Sneaky Tactics to Keep Them Hidden

Imagine you’re at the pharmacy. You’re picking up medicine you rely on each month. Two boxes catch your eye. One is the brand-name medication you’re used to. The other is a cheaper generic. Both promise the same relief, yet the generic is a fraction of the cost But then you hesitate. The brand-name drug feels familiar. The generic? It’s cheaper, but is it really the … Continue reading The Secret Lives of “Knockoff” Drugs: The Truth Behind Generic Drugs and the Sneaky Tactics to Keep Them Hidden

Nicole Celewicz
Loyola Spotlight

An Interview with Austin Holler

Austin Holler graduated from Loyola University Chicago School of Law in 2019. Following graduation, he joined Rakoczy Molino Mazzochi Siwik, LLP as an intellectual property (IP) associate and later moved to K&L Gates, where he now handles patent and trade secret litigation matters across multiple industries. I had the privilege to interview Austin and gain advice for both current and prospective law students.

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Amy Olyaei
Patents, Trademarks

Patenting Monopoly: How the True Inventor was Lost to History

Monopoly is one of the most well-known and iconic board games. According to Hasbro, eight out of ten people fight while playing Monopoly. What many people don’t know is the true story behind the creation and ownership of Monopoly. The story involves a fight over the intellectual property (“IP”) rights of the game. The story starts with a female inventor by the name of Lizzie … Continue reading Patenting Monopoly: How the True Inventor was Lost to History

Alexandra Shoup
Loyola Spotlight

Self-Exploration and Navigating a Career in Intellectual Property: An Interview with Lema Khorshid

No two career paths are exactly the same, especially in the legal field. Lema Khorshid, founding partner of Fuksa Khorshid Law Firm, is no exception to this and has paved a remarkable career for herself. Lema graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2000 with dual degrees in Finance and Marketing, as well as a concentration in International Business and Italian. Lema then received … Continue reading Self-Exploration and Navigating a Career in Intellectual Property: An Interview with Lema Khorshid

Alexandra Gordon
Why Loyola

From Engineering Labs to Runway Tags: My Journey Into IP Law

My fascination with intellectual property (IP) began during my time as an undergraduate mechanical engineering student at the University of Michigan and continues today. My curiosity of IP didn’t come just from textbooks or lectures. It came from real-world experiences that showed me just how deeply IP is woven into engineering and everyday life.  Let me explain.

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Adelyn Schmidt
Why Loyola

From Pitch to Patents: How Soccer Led Me to IP

My first pair of shoes was a pair of children’s Adidas Sambas. My dad, an avid soccer fan, gave me this first pair as a baby gift. Soon after, I developed a love for the game. The rhythm of play, the strategic thinking, and the creative maneuvers gave me a sense of tranquility. On the pitch, I was at ease. Little did I know, part … Continue reading From Pitch to Patents: How Soccer Led Me to IP

Sophie Michael
Why Loyola

Securing Sisterhood: My First Introduction to IP

Since 2022, I have proudly worn the symbols of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (Delta). Delta is a Black Greek Letter Organization committed to sisterhood, scholarship, public service, and social action. Before law school enrollment, I noticed a “®” symbol on my Delta crewneck. Now, I’ve noticed this symbol on things like Stanley Cups. But what would it have to do with my public service … Continue reading Securing Sisterhood: My First Introduction to IP

Kendall Henry