Where did you study before coming to Bucerius Law School?
Before coming to Bucerius Law School, I studied Psychology and International Economics at Drexel University in Philadelphia, USA.
How is studying different here?
Studying at a German university has been a unique experience for me compared to my time at Drexel University. The smaller size and open community have made it easier to develop a more personal relationships with both the campus and its inhabitants. The public transportation system in Germany is also far more reliable and accessible, making it easier to get to and from the university. Additionally, the student body is more connected, and I am more motivated to participate in events and clubs.
The university also promotes discourse and creates opportunities for students, professors, and researchers to connect and build relationships, which I find very valuable.
What do you find to be the biggest challenge when living in Germany?
As an international student in Germany, the country’s bureaucratic system presents the biggest challenge for me. Obtaining a visa, registering with the city, and navigating the healthcare system has been a time-consuming and complicated process that took months to complete. This challenge is further complicated by my limited fluency in German, which has made it even more difficult to navigate the process.
To manage this challenge, I went to the MLB office for assistance as well as other resources available to international students, including organizations that provide support to international students. These resources have been essential in helping me navigate the bureaucratic challenges of living in Germany and attending a German university.
How does your bachelor’s degree in psychology connect to law and business?
With my bachelor's degree is in psychology, I found that it has provided me with valuable skills that are applicable to law and business. For instance, my studies have provided me with a solid understanding of human behavior and motivation, which are fundamental in any work that involves interacting with people.
Through my coursework, I have honed my ability to work effectively in teams, communicate clearly and empathetically, and view situations from multiple perspectives. With my analytical and critical thinking skills, coupled with my interpersonal abilities, I am well-prepared to thrive in various professional settings.
Why did you decide to go into the field of law and business?
While working in a liner service company following my graduation, I gained valuable insights into the operations, management, and legal aspects of the logistics industry. It became apparent to me that there was a significant gap in knowledge between law and business, which inspired me to explore the intersection of these fields.
As I delved deeper, I realized that my skills and experience could be used to bridge this gap, particularly to help businesses navigate the complex legal and regulatory environments to achieve their goals. This realization ignited a strong desire within me to pursue a professional education in law and business, which ultimately led me to Bucerius Law School.
How does your background in psychology benefit you now?
Studying psychology has equipped me with valuable skills and knowledge that have been highly useful in my law and business studies. My understanding of statistical analysis allows me to comprehend complex legal data, while my knowledge of effective learning strategies enables me to approach law studies in a systematic and efficient manner.
Additionally, I have the tools to manage stress and maintain well-being, which is crucial for success in these fields. Overall, my psychology background has played a key role in my success in law and business, helping me analyze data, study effectively, and maintain my mental health.
In what field do you see yourself working in the future?
I envision myself working in the logistics industry, focusing on developing and implementing effective logistic solutions. While my current interest is in logistics, I am open to exploring other opportunities and industries depending on the opportunities presented to me.
You have worked in Berlin before. Did you like living in Germany?
I absolutely loved living in Germany, especially during my time in Berlin. It was an incredible few months of discovering the start-up culture and experiencing the international dynamic of the city. Additionally, having family in Germany made my time there even more special. Overall, it was a great experience that I look back on with fond memories.
How do you like Hamburg in comparison to that?
I appreciate Hamburg's charm and unique character. As someone who has gained a few more years of experience in the workforce, I find that Hamburg is a better fit for me at this point in my life.
The city has a more relaxed vibe and I appreciate being close to the water. Compared to Berlin, Hamburg is a bit smaller and more manageable, which allows for a better work-life balance. Overall, I feel like Hamburg is a great place to live and work, and I am excited to continue exploring all that the city has to offer.
What are your plans after graduating?
After graduation, I plan to work in the logistics industry and gain further experience in the field. My long-term goal is to start my own business that combines my interests in machine learning and supply chain management.
I believe that this combination of knowledge and skills will allow me to make a valuable contribution to the industry and address some of the challenges it faces. However, I am open to exploring different career paths and opportunities that come my way, and I am eager to learn and grow both personally and professionally.
