Before studying law at RUB, I studied Management & Economics. However, after completing my bachelor's degree, I realised that my interests during my studies had largely been in the legal field (especially commercial, corporate and labour law). For this reason, I did not see a future for myself with a master's degree in Management & Economics (which I had already started), but instead became interested in the State Examination, which I subsequently began in October 2020.
In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?
When you tell people that you are studying law, in 80% of cases they ask, ‘Isn't that boring?’ Of course, you have this preconception in your head when you start your studies. However, this has not been the case at all. Instead, contrary to the cliché, law is very varied and diverse. You have the opportunity, especially as you progress through your studies, to discover your own strengths and make the most of them, particularly in your chosen specialisation.
I also hoped to have the opportunity to ‘specialise’ within my studies. This is also very possible with the options available within the specialisation area. It is extremely diverse and offers courses for every interest. Within my specialisation, there were also opportunities to engage in dialogue with professionals from the field, which helped me a lot.
The only negative expectation I had was with regard to exam preparation. Admittedly, this was very stressful at times. However, in retrospect, I would say that it was far less ‘bad’ than it is sometimes portrayed.
Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?
Seeing how you develop personally and professionally. At the beginning of your studies, law can seem very abstract at times. However, RUB offers a wide variety of courses in which you can expand your knowledge. I particularly enjoyed the moments when I systematically worked through a new subject and understood it, when it all ‘clicked’ in a way, and that motivated me even more. Discussing various legal topics with fellow students can also be a lot of fun.
Furthermore, law is a field that shapes everyday life. During your studies, you sometimes see references to your own studies in public discussions and realise how what you have learned can be applied in the smallest everyday situations. This makes you feel that you are not only learning academically, but also in everyday situations.
What has been your biggest challenge to date?
The written part of the State Examination. Although the courses prepare you thoroughly for the basic topics, you only recognise the ‘big picture’ during your exam preparation and have to develop your own learning strategy. This is particularly due to the long preparation time of sometimes more than two years, which you would not normally experience as a school pupil or trainee. However, if you have sufficient interest and enthusiasm for the subject, this challenge can also be overcome.
What would you like to become after completing your degree?
When I was still at school, I would probably have been able to answer this question better than I do now. Back then, the answer would have been a clear ‘judge’. However, studying law has changed my perspective on various areas of law to some extent, and internships and part-time jobs have given me the opportunity to gain different insights into various areas of practice. So, right now, I'd probably say I want to be a lawyer. But since I really enjoy public law, I wouldn't rule out going into civil service either. On the other hand, I have been working as a research assistant at the university for some time now and have noticed that I find the teaching profession very interesting.
All in all, I would first like to gain further practical insights during my legal clerkship and then decide on a specific career path.
Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?
If you are into legal matters and are curious about them, studying law will be very interesting for you. Even if you are still unsure, I can only recommend that you at least ‘try it out’ and not be afraid that it might ‘not be for you’ and that you will have to reorient yourself. I did the same thing and have not regretted it for a single second. Sometimes you have to try different paths to ultimately choose the right one for yourself and your career.
You should therefore always try to find something that you really enjoy, otherwise you will never be happy in your future job. Try to talk to others about your decisions and seek advice, but also remember that ultimately, it's you who has to be convinced and you shouldn't pay too much attention to the opinions of others. In any case, law can be a lot of fun and give you a whole new perspective on life.
I had already completed an internship at a law firm while in high school, which gave me valuable insights into the daily work of lawyers, judges and prosecutors. When I was no longer satisfied with my choice of degree programme, I remembered this experience and hoped that studying law would offer me more variety in my future career options.
In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?
I have not been disappointed by the wide range of topics covered in lectures. In addition, there are many opportunities beyond the compulsory exam material to further your education in specific subject areas according to your own interests and to gain additional qualifications. However, the amount of study required should not be underestimated.
Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?
The most enjoyable aspect is solving cases that are currently relevant to society, which allows you to develop not just your legal knowledge. In addition, throughout your studies, you will experience small and large successes that will keep you motivated.
What has been your biggest challenge to date?
Getting through exam periods, where you have to find a good balance between studying and leisure activities.
What would you like to become after completing your degree?
At the moment, I am interested in working as a lawyer in the field of civil law.
Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?
The programme is by no means as insurmountable and ‘dry’ as is often claimed. As long as you stay on top of your studies from the beginning, your efforts will pay off.
