What is your academic and professional background?
I graduated from Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-RIO) and have been working as a corporate lawyer since 2004. In 2016, I moved to the IP area and completed a master's degree in Intellectual Property and Innovation from the Brazilian Patent Office (INPI) Academy, and have been working as an IP lawyer since then.
Why did you choose to participate in the IP Licensing summer program?
As a lawyer who works with IP licensing agreements in Brazil, often with partners from Europe and the US, I was very interested in the opportunity to learn more about this subject from the perspective of other legal systems, and the preliminary course schedule published online seemed quite robust. Furthermore, I've always been interested in doing an exchange program, and it seemed like a great opportunity to experience Hamburg for three weeks.
In what way is studying with a diverse group beneficial, in your opinion?
In my opinion, studying with a diverse group provides the opportunity to observe different ways of practicing and studying law, especially considering that there was also the opportunity to have European and North American teachers. Also, it was a good opportunity to participate in simulated negotiations with such diverse profiles of cultures and nationalities.
How did the Berlin Study Trip contribute to the learning experience in the program?
The visit to the German Ministry of Justice allowed us to meet and exchange ideas with professionals who work on a daily basis in IP regulation in the EU, something that would not be accessible outside of the educational context and without the support of Bucerius Law School.
What new knowledge are you going to put into practice?
The templates provided and the texts made available as reading support, in addition to the class notes, will be a source of daily reference.
What is the most interesting thing you learned academically and personally during the summer program?
Academically, the classes on open source and AI were very enlightening, and the class on Licensing in Pharma was an excellent opportunity to work in detail on development contracts, always a challenge for lawyers as they have to combine legal technique with business interests. Personally, the experience of living in Hamburg for three weeks was wonderful, almost a dream come true. I'm enchanted by the city, the cuisine, and the hospitality of the people.
What was most surprising about studying abroad in Hamburg, in Germany?
I didn't expect such a fun, lovely and characterful city, and most importantly, I didn't expect to fall in love with another city: something that happened little by little as I was able to experience the city's day-to-day life for three incredible weeks. I really miss Hamburg!!
Who would you recommend the program to?
I definitely recommend the program to other lawyers working in the IP field, and - from what I've heard from colleagues in the other class - I also recommend it to colleagues working with Legal Innovation.
How did you like Hamburg?
I already love Hamburg, it will live in my heart with great affection and longing.
Is there anything else you would like to share with future international students at Bucerius?
I think I can only suggest that: Enjoy every minute in Hamburg and all Bucerius Law School can offer: teachers, colleagues, library, garden, cafeteria. It will pass so quickly and it will be awesome!!
Daniela, thank you for the interview.
