Despite restrictions, 23 students had the chance to participate in the program this year. They hailed from four different bachelor’s programs, including the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.), the Dual Degree in Business Administration + Laws, Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, Law & Economics, and the Dual Degree in Laws + International Relations. This was an excellent opportunity which involved shadowing lawyers at Cuatrecasas, Dentons, and Pérez-Llorca, both online and face to face.
“It’s a pity that the program could not be carried out exactly like other years due to COVID-19, but the sessions and case studies we were exposed to were a great way to understand the challenges faced by different law areas,” mentioned Silvia Rodríguez, shadower at Pérez-Llorca.
“I really enjoyed watching lawyers who studied degrees similar to the one I am pursuing and confirming that they are successful professionals. Listening to their advice and recommendations was great and allowed me to understand the available options, and what to focus on at university,” said student Dahlia Levy, who was assigned to Cuatrecasas.
Aleksandra Smajevic, who was also a shadower at Cuatrecasas added: “I really liked the fact that presentations were given by lawyers with different levels of seniority. From partners to the youngest members of the team. Listening to their insights and different points of view convinced me that at Cuatrecasas there’s a common culture and a strong community feeling. I feel the Law Firms’ Shadowing Week makes you understand more clearly the reality of what working at a law firm is like, and how to reach that goal. I understood being a lawyer means learning and updating your knowledge continuously, and I was made aware of my strong skills and of those I must improve. I’m taking away lots of learned lessons from this experience.”
Daniela Mejía 
Blanca Rollnert Silvia Rodriguez – Villlanueva 
Aleksandra Smajevic 
Dahlia Levy
“It was definitely a chance to get rid of some incorrect ideas I had about what being a lawyer is like. I could experience the work schedule, and it allowed me to get exposure to less “glamorous” aspects of the law sector while helping me confirm the passion I feel for the field. The environment was very friendly and I liked the fact the lawyers were so open when sharing their experiences. I feel I have received a lot of good advice for my professional future. I recommend students who participate in the future go with an open mind, show excitement towards areas you might not have felt attracted before, because you might be pleasantly surprised, just like me,” said Daniela Mejía, shadower at Dentons.
“I recommend students make the most of this experience. It’s the perfect chance to get a real insight into what working at a law firm really entails, and either confirm your interest in pursuing this career or help you to modify your path and goals. My favorite part was definitely receiving advice from practicing lawyers with many years of experience,” concluded Blanca Rollnert, shadower at Dentons.