Cecile Bonmarin graduated from Cincinnati Law's LLM Program in 2019. After graduating, she returned to Fribourg, Switzerland where she works at L'Etude Swiss Lawyers SNC, specializing in personal injury law. She spoke with us about how her experience in the LLM program has helped her advance in her career and given her more confidence in her practice.
I would of course say that one of my favorite memories of the LLM experience was the graduation ceremony because it's so unique to the US. We don't have a ceremony like this in Switzerland, so getting to participate in an American-style graduation was very exciting and memorable. I also have distinct memories of the very first day of class. I walked in, I met my new classmates, and I thought: This is going to be a big challenge, but I am going to go for it. We had a really nice group of students in our class, from diverse places, and we all enjoyed getting to know each other.
I was in Cincinnati in 2018-2019 altogether with my family, and we planned to stay only for one year. So, after the LLM, I returned home to Switzerland. I was given the opportunity to return to the law firm I worked at previously, and because of my LLM degree they offered me a better position. I really enjoyed my job and the people who work there, so I was happy to return.
My clients are mainly from our local region, and they come to me to help them solve insurance matters related to personal injuries. A lot of times they are seriously injured, and I am able to help them with complicated legal issues that come into play. So, I am not using US law on a day-to-day basis, but I think I am a better lawyer because I have an open mind to comparative approaches. I also believe that my LLM experience helped me to become more confident and independent. When I face new legal issues or the law changes, I feel more confident that I can find the solution and make the best arguments. I am also more confident in my use of English, which is important in many situations.
If I were ever to decide to look for a new position, I know that having the LLM degree would help because law firms in Switzerland value study in the US.
I would say "go for it." It's a really great experience. I will remember this year for my whole life, it was so special. I would recommend it to everyone who is thinking about it. You will meet nice people, and it will be really valuable to you personally and professionally. To students just getting started, I would say keep your eyes open and take advantage of all of the opportunities available to you. You are going to really enjoy it.
Featured Image: Fribourg, Switzerland/iStock Photo
