Alina Trapova graduated with a Intellectual Property Law LLM in 2015. She is currently finishing her PhD at Bocconi University, where she also teaches IP law. Read more about her experience:
When selecting an LLM programme, I was strongly driven by my desire to specialise in the field of Intellectual Property Law. CCLS offered by far the most attractive programme in Intellectual Property Law with a particularly wide and diverse variety of courses. I was able to specialise in courses that gave not just a theoretical depth, but also a strong industry perspective. No other programme had this added value of a genuine industry focus. That is what really distinguished the LLM in IP at CCLS from the other programmes available – one could really learn the practical side of things.
Certainly, the teambuilding we did in the beginning of the programme at Cumberland Lodge was a strong point, but also the many extra-curricular projects I was involved in, such as qLegal and the research cafes.
I met wonderful people during my LLM among both the students the academics. Many of these contacts really evolved into very good friendships. I also meet many of them at conferences and events as part of my academic career – it is certainly very nice to have friendly faces in the audience.
Following the completion of my LLM, I had the opportunity to spend one year working at the European Union Intellectual Property Office's Boards of Appeal at the Presidency Team. My experience at CCLS had an incredible impact on my career. Indeed, following the completion of my LLM I became even more convinced that I would like to follow an academic path, which is where I am at now.
CCLS provides students with a very stimulating environment. As a student I felt like I really wanted to be involved in everything that was taking place – both academically and socially. You really become part of a very nice community and this stays with you beyond the completion of your studies.
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