Hector Contreras: Pursuing Legal and Business Education in Japan

LLM Transnational Law

Originally from San Diego, Hector Contreras is a multifaceted professional leveraging his juris doctorate and business master’s to contribute to various projects, spanning social media marketing, logistics, production, and product development. As an associate producer at SOHO Live based in Tokyo, Hector has contributed to the production of projects such as Stardew Valley: Festival of Seasons, Shin Megami Tensei: 30th Anniversary and supported projects such as Sonic Symphony, Final Fantasy: Distant Worlds, and Symphonic Anime.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. 

Can you tell us about your academic program and how you ended up at Temple University’s Japan campus?

I’m a transnational law LLM degree candidate at Temple Law’s Japan campus in Tokyo. My journey here started with my undergraduate studies at UC Santa Barbara, followed by law school at American University in DC, where I graduated in 2021. The pandemic prompted me to rethink my career direction, and I discovered Temple’s Master’s in Management (MIM) program in Japan. I completed the MIM program in 2023 while working full-time for a company producing concerts for video game and anime IPs. My interest in international law led me to Temple’s LLM program, which I’ll complete in Summer 2025.

What has your experience been like in the transnational LLM program?

It’s been fascinating. The program covers various aspects of international law, including contracts, arbitration, and copyright law. For example, we’ve studied the Berne Convention, which ensures copyright enforcement among member states. The program is comprehensive and provides a great understanding of international legal frameworks. My MIM program complemented this by offering business knowledge in accounting, marketing, and startup processes. Both programs have equipped me with practical skills, like analyzing P&L statements and understanding arbitration clauses, which are directly applicable to my work.

What impact do you hope your work will have within your field of study and beyond?

I aim to create memorable experiences that bring people together. My current project, the Stardew Valley Symphony of Seasons World Tour, is a perfect example. As a producer, I lead the creative direction to connect fans of this popular indie game through live concerts. It’s rewarding to see fans come together, often meeting in person for the first time. Seeing their excitement and gratitude, especially when the game’s creator, Eric Barone, interacts with them, reinforces why I do this work.

Why did you choose to pursue graduate school in Japan, and what do you love most about Tokyo?

My first visit to Japan was in 2014 to see family stationed here. I fell in love with Tokyo and returned often, including a study abroad semester during undergrad. When I decided to shift my career post-pandemic, moving to Japan felt like the perfect opportunity to blend professional growth with my love for the country. Tokyo’s efficient mass transit system is my favorite aspect —it’s incredibly convenient and nothing like the limited options back in San Diego, where I’m from.

How has the community at Temple impacted your experience?

The law program’s community has been invaluable. We have monthly events with speakers, alumni, and local legal professionals, fostering connections in Tokyo’s close-knit legal community. As a current student, I’ve shared advice with incoming JD students and plan to continue helping new students even after graduation. This sense of camaraderie makes being in a foreign country feel much more welcoming.

Do you have any mentors or people who have guided you during your time in Tokyo?

Professor Tina Saunders, the dean of the law school program, has been a phenomenal mentor. Despite her busy schedule, she’s always available to guide and support students through challenges, both professional and personal. I also want to acknowledge Eriko Kawaguchi and Masako, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the MIM and law programs run smoothly. Their efforts have made a huge difference for students navigating life in Japan.

What’s next for you after graduation?

I’ll continue working at my current full-time job in Tokyo, producing concerts and expanding IP offerings. I plan to stay involved with the Temple community by attending alumni events and mentoring students. I’m fortunate to have already found a stable position in a field I’m passionate about, which allows me to continue creating meaningful experiences for audiences worldwide.

What advice would you give to someone considering graduate school, particularly at Temple’s Japan campus?

It’s a unique opportunity. The education is enriched by diverse perspectives, as the program attracts international lawyers from various backgrounds. Additionally, Tokyo offers countless professional connections, and the professors are incredibly well-connected in the local legal and business communities. If you’re serious about studying or working in Japan, Temple’s program provides the support and network to make that transition seamless.