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Why International Experience Matters: A Semester at Bucerius Law School

Tom Hastings sees himself as a “non-traditional” law student. About to complete his second year of study at Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, Tom spent several years working in Hollywood with movie producers after completing his undergraduate studies at University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill before deciding to go to law school.

Tom explains his unique background: “I spent a semester on a study abroad program in college. Then I went to work in Munich for awhile. Plus my media and film experience, I think that all these things set me apart from other students here.”

After arriving at Washington University, Tom knew that he wanted his work in the legal profession to have a German component. Working with the dean of the international programs, Tom was introduced to David Detjen – American Friends of Bucerius Board Member and Washington University School of Law alumnus. It was David who started him thinking about the international program at Bucerius Law School.

“David told me that the Bucerius Law School reputation would be important, and as I read more about the school, its faculty, and graduates, I knew he was right.” Tom is going to be headed to Hamburg for the fall semester and he has advice for other students: “Be open to the experience. I learned that from my undergraduate exchange. I want to meet as many people from as many places as I can while I’m at Bucerius. I think that will help prepare me for an international legal career.”

You can help a student expand their international legal education by supporting a scholarship. If you are interested in contributing to the Bucerius Global Legacy Fund, please contact Sarah Beth Lardie at sarahbeth.lardie[at]buceriususa.org.