What is your academic and professional background?
I am currently in my final year of my Bachelor of Laws at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. I work full-time as a paralegal at a commercial firm, in the litigation department.
Why did you choose to participate in the Legal Tech Summer Program?
I chose to participate in the Legal Tech summer school because the legal industry is currently experiencing a transformative period, driven by the rapid expansion of legal technology and AI.
This technological evolution is reshaping how law firms and legal professionals operate, making the course highly valuable for those wanting to stay ahead of the curve.
Was studying at Bucerius and cooperating with such an international group of participants different from what you are used to?
I am a cloud (online) student back at home, so returning to the classroom was a big shift to my normal learning process. I had reservations as to I would adapt returning to in-person learning, however, all the lecturers were highly engaging and personable, making the transition very easy and enjoyable.
What did you learn from the Berlin Study Trip?
The excursion to Berlin offered valuable insights into various companies adopting legal technology, enhancing access to justice, improving client services, streamlining work processes, and supporting remote work culture.
We observed how these companies were innovating and utilising legal technology to improve service quality and quantity, reduce costs, and increase efficiency within legal firms. Overall, it showcased the positive impacts of legal technology on the future of the legal industry.
What is the most interesting thing you learned academically and personally during the summer program?
The most interesting thing I learnt academically during the summer program was that "AI" is a broad umbrella term. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the different types of AI, their functions and limitations.
The most interesting thing I learnt about myself was just how fascinated I am by legal technology. Discovering this has motivated me to want to drive change at the company I work for, and consider future employment in the legal technology industry.
What was most surprising about studying abroad?
I was surprised to find just how much I enjoyed exploring a new city by myself. It revealed my independence, adaptability, and curiosity, as I immerse myself in a new city and Bucerius Law School.
Who would you recommend the program to?
I would recommend the program to all law students and everyone working in the legal industry who has the slightest interest in legal technology.
How did you like Hamburg?
Hamburg is absolutely beautiful. I feel in love with the city very quickly. Everyday I walked through Kleine Wallanlagen park as I attended to Bucerius Law School. Kleine Wallanlagen park is one of the most picturesque parks I have ever experienced.
Jungfernstieg is also beautiful with stunning architecture surrounding Binnenalster lake. The public transport was also easy to navigate and utilise every day whilst in Hamburg making getting around and exploring the city easy.
Is there anything you would like to share with future international students at Bucerius?
Two places I recommend seeing while in Hamburg are Blankenese and Lübeck. Blankenese is roughly 40mins away from Hamburg central station. It is a beautiful suburb out of Hamburg with lovely winding footpaths surrounded by stunning homes; a long stretching beach speckled with shipwrecks.
Lübeck is roughly an hour away from Hamburg central. It is a medieval harbour town with beautiful architecture, churches and a lovely town square.
Rob, thank you for the interview.
