My name is Oscar de la Vega Castillo. I graduated with a Law degree from ITAM in 2021, and in 2024, I completed a master’s degree in Mexican labor law at Escuela Libre de Derecho. Since 2019, I have been working at De la Vega & Martínez Rojas, S.C., where I have built my career specializing in labor law, both individual and collective. In recent years, I have particularly focused on the investigation and enforcement processes of the Rapid Response Labor Mechanisms derived from the USMCA.
Despite having a solid academic background, I felt there was still room for growth. The decision to pursue a master’s degree in the United States was not spontaneous; it was inspired by one of the people I most admire: my sister Regina. A few years ago, she had a similar opportunity, and witnessing her personal and professional growth upon returning to Mexico made me realize that an international experience could make a significant difference in my development.
Moreover, the 2019 labor reform and the USMCA’s Rapid Response Labor Mechanism have made understanding U.S. law more relevant than ever. Deepening my knowledge of U.S. labor law would allow me to understand the similarities between it and the new legal concepts and processes introduced by the Mexican reform. Additionally, studying its perspective on freedom of association and collective bargaining would help me broaden my outlook to better anticipate and respond to labor crises arising from alleged violations of these principles.
While pursuing a master’s degree in the U.S. was a great opportunity, there was one thing I didn’t want to sacrifice: my work as a lawyer. I am passionate about what I do, I enjoy collaborating with my clients and friends, and above all, I want to continue contributing to the search for solutions that allow companies to maintain productivity while recognizing that workers are an essential part of them.
For this reason, I decided to take on the challenge: pursuing a Master of Laws (LL.M.) at UC Berkeley, specializing in corporate law, without leaving my legal practice.
I won’t deny that it has been one of the biggest challenges I have ever faced. Balancing work with my studies requires organization and discipline. Working remotely, with a time difference (one hour in the summer and two in the winter), meant adjusting my workflow. The use of digital tools and effective communication with my team became essential to optimizing my time and fulfilling all my responsibilities.
Adapting to a different academic system has also been a challenge. In the U.S., participation and critical analysis are fundamental, and the academic demands are high. The workload is intense. I am currently taking 15 units, each requiring three to four hours of weekly classes and study. Most of my classmates are dedicated exclusively to the LL.M., but in my case, balancing it with work has been a massive effort. Fortunately, the professors are approachable and provide individualized support, which has made the process more manageable.
One thing I wish I had known before starting was the importance of building a professional network from day one. Over time, I’ve learned to take advantage of every opportunity to connect with other professionals and enrich my experience through the exchange of ideas with people from different backgrounds. I have had the opportunity to learn not only from my fellow lawyers but also from professionals in various fields with whom I interact daily, as well as from distinguished guest speakers at the university.
Despite everything, I would make the same decision again without hesitation.
Academically, this experience has strengthened my skills as a lawyer, allowed me to better understand U.S. law, and opened the door to new solutions I had never even considered—essential aspects of my professional growth. However, the most valuable part has been the personal growth I’ve experienced. Listening to lawyers and professionals from around the world, learning from their cultures and perspectives on labor law and society, has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life.
Professionally, continuing to work has forced me to stay constantly updated and has allowed me to remain in contact with my clients. For all these reasons, I can confidently say that studying and working simultaneously has been a great challenge… but also the best decision I could have made.
