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My name is Ahmet Ufuk Yener. I attended the International Arbitration LL.M at Erasmus University between August 2023 - August 2024. My academic experience before this consisted of acquiring my bachelor’s in law at the Bilkent University Faculty of Law in Ankara, Turkey. 

I was always interested in arbitration and wanted to pursue a career in the field also in line with my previous work experience after graduating from Bilkent. This program at Erasmus University stood out as a great opportunity for me to further specialize in this topic as it had a specific and dedicated focus on arbitration, which separated it from a majority of other master’s programs I was considering applying to at the time. It also provided me with the chance to learn from several well regarded and established academicians and practitioners alike. 

My favorite aspect of the master’s was its calculated balance between theoretical knowledge, and the added importance to real world application. This was not a surprise, as the program had specifically advertised itself through the #WhereLawMeetsBusiness hashtag as well, which it held up to in every regard. Many topics and cases that we had covered in the master’s later came back in my work life, both providing familiarity as to keystone cases in the field as a starting point in legal research, as well as allowing for construction upon the base of knowledge accrued during the master’s with regards to key legal concepts in the field. Specifically, my experience with arbitration had previously been very focused in commercial arbitrations, but the master’s provided a condensed but very thorough introduction into investment arbitration, allowing for an expansion of perspective. Not surprisingly, it was also my favorite course in the master’s as a whole. 

The master’s also helped me develop both professionally and academically. I felt through the structuring of the courses and the blocks, I was able to improve upon many aspects of my drafting and research processes and learn about new sources and avenues I could use to collect information. The continuous suggestions of the lecturers to keep up to date with developments in the field has also been a major assistance later in my work life, providing for the ability to both better understand certain trends with regards to theoretical knowledge in courses, or just to make interesting conversations with colleagues and new acquaintances alike. 

The master’s was also a great experience for personal growth. Alongside the valuable knowledge I acquired with regards to legal concepts and practice, I had the opportunity to be in a very diverse environment with classmates from all around the world. Experiencing different viewpoints and cultures, and forming lifelong friendships will remain with me wherever I go from now on. 

My most prudent advice to prospective students considering this program would be fairly simple: manage your time well. While assignments and courses are demanding in their own regard, also do not miss out on the wonderful social aspects of the master’s and the city alike. 

My name is Maurizio Porrino. In 2024, I graduated from EUR’s master’s programme in International Commercial Law, specialising in international arbitration. I am a Mexican lawyer from Universidad Panamericana and currently work as an associate at a boutique arbitration firm in Mexico City. My master’s thesis was titled “Assistant.exe: An Analysis of Generative Artificial Intelligence as a Tribunal Secretary in International Arbitration”.

This programme was a pivotal step in my legal career. I was always passionate about arbitration and international dispute resolution, and this master’s gave me the tools I needed to secure opportunities in this field. I was driven to this master’s specifically for its specialised approach to arbitration. My prior academic experiences with the discipline felt limited or self-taught. This master’s was the first time I comprehensively studied arbitration in an academic setting, from its most basic concepts to its most challenging and complex notions. I wanted to build a solid foundation of knowledge in this field, which was just what this programme offered. 

I appreciated the faculty’s teaching style the most. All lectures were dynamic and practical, which was very welcome when studying a subject as technical as arbitration. In fact, the faculty is the master’s greatest added value. EUR’s school of law has a deep tradition with arbitration, and this connection is nurtured to this day. All faculty members are renowned practitioners and/or academics in the field. Although all lecturers have different teaching styles, everyone has interesting ‘war stories’ and vast technical knowledge. I found all lectures engaging, accessible, and in-depth.

Beyond the programme’s excellent academic aspects, this experience certainly made me grow as a person. As an international student, I was far outside my comfort zone and disconnected from the network of support that my friends and family provided. While this was intimidating at first, navigating these personal challenges massively enriched my experience in Rotterdam. Every day I interacted with new cultures and worldviews. I learned a lot from all my international friends and became much more aware of the world around me.

Finally, the master’s has a clear business focus. For me #WhereLawMeetsBusiness meant that, as students, we were encouraged to think about the entrepreneurial side of law quite often. EUR hosted several networking events and practical webinars which reminded us that legal work goes beyond textbooks.

The most important tip is to live this experience to its fullest. As law students we can sometimes become too fixated on the academic and professional aspects of a master’s. Rotterdam is a beautiful city full of interesting people and places. Make time to interact with your fellow students or wander around. You will be rewarded with amazing friends and lifelong memories.My name is Maurizio Porrino. In 2024, I graduated from EUR’s master’s programme in International Commercial Law, specialising in international arbitration. I am a Mexican lawyer from Universidad Panamericana and currently work as an associate at a boutique arbitration firm in Mexico City. My master’s thesis was titled “Assistant.exe: An Analysis of Generative Artificial Intelligence as a Tribunal Secretary in International Arbitration”.

This programme was a pivotal step in my legal career. I was always passionate about arbitration and international dispute resolution, and this master’s gave me the tools I needed to secure opportunities in this field. I was driven to this master’s specifically for its specialised approach to arbitration. My prior academic experiences with the discipline felt limited or self-taught. This master’s was the first time I comprehensively studied arbitration in an academic setting, from its most basic concepts to its most challenging and complex notions. I wanted to build a solid foundation of knowledge in this field, which was just what this programme offered. 

I appreciated the faculty’s teaching style the most. All lectures were dynamic and practical, which was very welcome when studying a subject as technical as arbitration.  In fact, the faculty is the master’s greatest added value. EUR’s school of law has a deep tradition with arbitration, and this connection is nurtured to this day. All faculty members are renowned practitioners and/or academics in the field. Although all lecturers have different teaching styles, everyone has interesting ‘war stories’ and vast technical knowledge. I found all lectures engaging, accessible, and in-depth.

Beyond the programme’s excellent academic aspects, this experience certainly made me grow as a person. As an international student, I was far outside my comfort zone and disconnected from the network of support that my friends and family provided. While this was intimidating at first, navigating these personal challenges massively enriched my experience in Rotterdam. Every day I interacted with new cultures and worldviews. I learned a lot from all my international friends and became much more aware of the world around me.

Finally, the master’s has a clear business focus. For me #WhereLawMeetsBusiness meant that, as students, we were encouraged to think about the entrepreneurial side of law quite often. EUR hosted several networking events and practical webinars which reminded us that legal work goes beyond textbooks.

The most important tip is to live this experience to its fullest. As law students we can sometimes become too fixated on the academic and professional aspects of a master’s. Rotterdam is a beautiful city full of interesting people and places. Make time to interact with your fellow students or wander around. You will be rewarded with amazing friends and lifelong memories.

My name is Kalkidan Asmamaw Tadesse, and I come from Ethiopia. I am a proud graduate of the Masters of Commercial Law (LL.M) program with a specialization in International Arbitration from the class of 2023-2024. I am currently serving as a Public Prosecutor at the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Ministry of Justice, within the Legal Studies, Drafting, and Consolidating Directorate General. I hold a Bachelor of Law (LL. B) from the University of Gondar, Ethiopia. My master’s thesis titled as ‘The Efficacy of Arbitration under AfCFTA Protocol on Rules, and Procedures on the Settlement of Disputes: Lesson from Others.’

I chose this master’s program because of a long-standing aspiration that began during my undergraduate years, driven by a profound interest in international arbitration and international trade law. I believe that enhancing expertise in these fields is crucial for bolstering the global trade competitiveness of my country and the wider international community. By acquiring advanced knowledge in international arbitration, I aim to contribute to developing robust legal frameworks and effective dispute resolution mechanisms. This expertise is vital for addressing challenges that hinder global competitiveness, ensuring fair and efficient resolution of cross-border disputes, and ultimately promoting economic growth, stability, and justice across the globe.
The master's program has largely met my expectations with its rigorous curriculum and comprehensive course offerings. The core courses have provided a strong foundation in international arbitration, and the elective options allowed me to tailor my learning to my specific interests. However, I expected a more balanced approach between examinations and research/writing assignments, but the program leaned more towards exams, with about 70% of assessments being exam-based. This limited the availability of research opportunities, prompting me to seek alternative avenues for gaining practical experience.

The subjects that appealed to me the most and have stayed with me include Investment Arbitration, International Commercial Arbitration, and International Trade and Investment Law. These courses have equipped me with a deep understanding of international arbitration principles and practical skills in research and advocacy. Completing my thesis further honed my expertise, solidifying my readiness to contribute to resolving complex international legal issues. The master's program has significantly enriched my academic journey, preparing me for pursuing a Ph.D. It has strengthened my resilience and time management skills, allowing me to thrive under pressure. My social awareness has also evolved, understanding the importance of seeking help when needed as a sign of strength, not weakness. For me, #WhereLawMeetsBusiness signifies the convergence of legal strategy and corporate ambition, ensuring that disputes are resolved strategically, seizing opportunities along the way.

To prospective master’s students, remember that your belief in yourself and dedication to your goals will drive your success. Stay focused, stay determined, and continue to believe in the possibilities ahead.