What is your academic and professional background?
I am currently working in the music industry, focusing on music licensing.
I majored in English in college, and after graduation, I pursued further studies in a Master's degree program in Law.
Why did you choose to participate in the Summer Program in Licensing Transactions in Intellectual Property?
My current job is related to music licensing. I hope to expand my knowledge in the field of intellectual property, apply it through practical experience, and improve my communication and negotiation skills in my work.
In what way is studying with a diverse group beneficial, in your opinion?
By collaborating with different team members, I can communicate with partners from various cultural backgrounds and practice relevant negotiation skills. In future business collaborations, I will inevitably encounter clients with diverse cultures, backgrounds, and negotiation strategies. Working with different team members will be very helpful for training in this aspect of communication.
How did Google site visit and OpenLap Mobile workshop contribute to the learning experience in the program?
The workshops of Google and OpenLap Mobile are the highlights of this program. Visiting companies and understanding the practical aspects of contract drafting and negotiation in the industry will greatly benefit future negotiation practices. The OpenLap Mobile workshop, through hands-on activities, allows all students to engage with 3D printing and open-source hardware and software. This integration of daily life with legal studies is truly an excellent course.
What is the most interesting thing you learned academically and personally during the summer program?
The participants and instructors of this course come from various nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds. Through course interactions, we can better understand cultural differences and the nuances of international communication. Everyone communicates in a common language, English, which allows us to learn about each other's cultures. Moreover, I also realized that communication tools extend beyond language. Our interactions occur in various forms simultaneously, facilitating cultural and informational exchanges in different ways. This experience made me understand the importance of listening in the communication process. Although expressive skills are important, listening is often more challenging during negotiations.
What new knowledge are you going to put into practice?
Before participating in this program, I was primarily familiar with copyright law. In this program, I learned about NFTs, open source, trademark law, and patent law, and I plan to apply this knowledge to my work. The contract drafting and review techniques discussed and practiced in the program will also be useful in my future work reviewing related licensing agreements. Additionally, every job and our daily life require good negotiation and communication skills. I will apply the negotiation techniques I learned in this program to future business and daily communications.
Who would you recommend the program to?
I highly recommend this course to law students and professionals working in the field of intellectual property. This course not only covers knowledge related to intellectual property but also integrates training and practice in business negotiation and communication skills. Students can explore their future research interests and career directions through this program. Professionals can use the practical aspects of the course to readjust their career paths and apply the practical knowledge and skills learned in the course to their work.
How did you like Hamburg?
I really enjoy Binnenalster in Hamburg. I love taking walks by the lake and feeling the breeze after class. The weather in Hamburg is pleasant, though sometimes unpredictable, but overall comfortable. I also adore Planten un Blomen, where the beautiful flowers make every walk a delight. I am very fond of Hamburg's seafood cuisine, and the fish market and flea markets are a lot of fun. However, the most impressive experience is the live music performances at the live houses—they are truly amazing.
Is there anything you would like to share with future international students at Bucerius?
I recommend that participants arrange some extracurricular activities during the three-week period to enhance interaction and increase opportunities to learn about classmates from different cultural backgrounds. The three-week course is very short and intensive. In addition to classroom learning, I highly suggest experiencing the culture of Hamburg and nearby towns together with classmates. If you can stay a bit longer after the course ends, I also highly recommend visiting neighboring countries of Germany to experience and appreciate the diverse cultures of Europe.
Ya-Wen, thank you for the interview.
