Why this programme

Great to see your interest in the LL.M. programmes of the Erasmus University Rotterdam! My name is Tessie Schuurs, and I completed the Master in Maritime and Transport Law in 2018. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Dutch law at Utrecht University, where I also studied a semester of Marketing in Australia.

During my studies, I discovered my interest in Maritime and Transport Law through the course Commercial Law. This field focuses on contracts involving various parties (carriers, freight forwarders, insurers, banks) and has a direct link to business activities and international trade. Additionally, I found it advantageous to pursue an English-taught master's programme, as I aspired to work in an international environment. The programme itself is very international, with a focus on international treaties and students from all over the world coming to study in Rotterdam.

The intensive course Research and Writing Skills quickly familiarised me with the teaching methods, lecturers, and study materials. My favourite course was Transport Law, as it provides a good overview of the various modes of transport (ocean, inland waterways, air, road, and rail) and focuses on the carriage of goods and passengers. For instance, it is useful to know your rights as a passenger under the Montreal Convention in case your flight is delayed or cancelled.

The master's programme has been of great value to me. The high level of lectures and seminars further sharpened my analytical skills. I also became familiar with reading legal documents such as Bills of Lading, general terms and conditions, and international treaties. This knowledge was very beneficial when I recently transitioned from practising law to working at CEVA Logistics (one of the world's largest logistics service providers).

The research for my master's thesis particularly contributed to my personal growth. I conducted empirical research on the still relevant topic of the liability of food delivery couriers working within the platform economy (Uber Eats, Thuisbezorgd, Foodora). I learned how to set up a survey study and subsequently conducted and processed dozens of surveys. I also interviewed a Dutch insurer on this topic. As the icing on the cake, I was able to present my findings at a conference in Paris. This experience allowed me to develop both my hard skills (transport law with a focus on the CMR Convention) and my soft skills (research skills, presenting).

For me, the Master in Maritime and Transport Law represents #whereLawMeetsBusiness. The programme included many guest lectures, a masterclass, and activities organised by the TTLA. This broadened my perspective beyond just the law. I now see this reflected in my role as Legal Counsel Benelux at CEVA Logistics. A good corporate lawyer delves deep into legal knowledge but also maintains a broad perspective. When negotiating commercial contracts, I not only focus on legal aspects but also advise the business on operational and financial risks.

My golden tip for students is: do not hesitate to contact a company or person who has sparked your interest. People generally enjoy being approached by an enthusiastic student and are happy to share more about their work. Who knows, this contact might even lead to a valuable (part-time) job!

My name is Filippos Batsoulis and I am 26 years old. I have studied my Bachelor of Laws in the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and during my bachelor years, I had already decided to specialize in Maritime Law. When I was searching for a relative LLM program, I decided to come to Rotterdam, because it is the biggest port in Europe. The city itself was magnificent as well, with a very nice environment.

This LL.M. program is unique for Erasmus School of Law, because it offers a good opportunity for the students to understand the basics regarding maritime issues in general. The courses are more than interesting and after finishing the master great opportunities are emerging for everybody who wants to work in this industry. While studying I was fascinated by the different courses that were provided, especially the course “Transport Law”, in which the student has the opportunity to learn about the different transportation methods and not merely focus and the sea voyages.

Overall the experience was very nice. The program was competitive, and the courses were taught and examined in several Blocks with two months duration. Except for the final exams, there were also some assignments during each block that were contributing to the final grade. Although the schedule may be overburdened because of the many due dates that must be followed, I believe this is a helpful experience promoting a vibrant and unique way of teaching.

In general, I would suggest to everybody that aspires to study this LLM to study a few hours every day, so that the overall experience ends up in a smooth way. The university will provide you with general guidelines but after that a student should be proactive and try to acquire knowledge through personal and active research. Also, I would suggest to check out the Dutch Courses, because they are very cool, if you are interested to further stay in Rotterdam for work.

My name is Mauricio Gómez-Rodríguez. I am a 27-year-old lawyer, born and raised in Bogota, Colombia. Before coming to Rotterdam, I was doing an internship at my country's embassy in Rome. After that, I went to live in Madrid for two years to do a postgraduate degree in Air and Space Law.

Which master programme did you pursue?

Maritime & Transport Law at Erasmus School of Law.

Why did you decide to choose this programme?

When the time to choose a master's degree had finally arrived for me, it was not an easy decision to make, mainly because I was sure my choice would define the course of my career. My main doubt was in deciding whether it was worth doing a master's in a country other than my own. There is always the idea that you cannot study law in a foreign country because laws and societies are different. That was why I knew the Master of Laws (LL.M.) I would choose must have a solid international focus and a link with commercial law, which I like. And that's how I found the LL.M. in Maritime & Transport Law at Erasmus School of Law.

What do you remember most about the programme?

Despite being passionate about air law, discovering maritime law's world was fascinating. The best thing about the master programme is that behind every business, there is a whole legal framework that is one of a kind. Insurance, contracts, casualties, multiple jurisdictions, and different forms of transportation are some topics that each of the classes in this programme addresses.

However, I must say that it is not an easy master. There are certainly times when you have to focus on studying seriously, plus having a background in law is essential. Some of my classmates had to work hard because they lacked the experience. The classes could be intellectually challenging, as the academic demand is high. That is a reason why this master's is so internationally recognized. However, I must also say that it is worth the effort, and there are many other fun moments. During the academic year we visited companies and law firms. We had debates and working groups, making all the students relate to each other quickly since most of us were foreigners. Besides, Rotterdam is a charming city, full of young people and with a unique vibe.

What would you say to Erasmus School of Law students who are now choosing their master programme?

I can confidently say that the Maritime & Transport Law master programme opened the world's doors to me. It is a complete master's full of exciting topics in an industry with many opportunities to grow. My advice is not to be overwhelmed by how difficult it can be to find a house in Rotterdam or how long the rainy days can be. Most of your classmates will be experiencing the same things you are, and Rotterdam is a city where there is always something new to do or learn.

My name is Leon Goh, and I am from Singapore. After spending the first three years of my bachelors at the National University of Singapore, I was given the opportunity to pursue a masters in Maritime and Transport Law at Erasmus University Rotterdam  as part of the Exchange plus programme between the two universities. The choice of maritime law was an easy one as the international nature of shipping has always appealed to me.   

One noteworthy advantage of the exchange plus programme is the fact that the two institutions are in two different legal systems. This affords students the opportunity to consider any given area of law from two different perspectives. In my case, I was able to immerse myself in shipping law and experience it from both the common law and civil law perspective. In addition, as a bonus, both Singapore and Rotterdam are important port cities. Furthermore, owing to the international nature of the classroom which is made up of people hailing from a multitude of jurisdictions, every student brings something new to the discussion.     

Another reason why I decided to pursue not only a masters at Erasmus University Rotterdam, but a maritime law masters, is undoubtably its location. As the largest port in Europe, there is an entire maritime ecosystem here. The curriculum at Erasmus University Rotterdam leverages this major boon and this adds a practical dimension to our studies. As students, we get to experience a wide range of activities from company visits to interactions with real-life practitioners from companies like Van Traa and Boskalis.  

However, the life of a master student is more than just the classroom. Aside from academics, life in Rotterdam certainly did not disappoint. Rotterdam is such an eclectic and international city, there truly is something for everyone. Whether it is experiencing new cultures, meeting other people from around the globe or taking in the new sights and sounds, life in Rotterdam is rarely a dull moment.

My name is Aaron Nagtegaal and I am 23 years old. I grew up near Rotterdam where I am currently still residing. In 2015 I started my bachelor of Law at Erasmus University. Therefore, it was only natural that I would choose a master programme at Erasmus University too. The master Commercial Law has four different specialisations: Commercial and Company Law, International Arbitration and Business Law, International Trade Law and Maritime and Transport Law. As hard as it was for me to choose which bachelor I wanted to study, as easy it was for me to choose my master. A minor on shipping, an exchange period in Athens and an internship at a law firm really paved the way for choosing the Maritime and Transport Law programme.

As one of only a few Dutch students in the programme it was quite new for me doing an international master even though I had already done a semester abroad. However, the master’s introductory course is structured in a way that really helps students to get used to the pace of the year or rather the pace of assignments and deadlines which you will get used to (eventually). I found the regular courses quite challenging but very doable if you put in the work. Even without mandatory attendance you are forced to familiarise yourself with the course substance in order to complete assignments that count towards your final grades. This encourages students to attend lectures anyway which I always enjoyed. Since our programme consisted of just under 30 students this created a very personal atmosphere as opposed to the lectures in the introductory course with all four specialisations consisting of maybe 150 students in total.

Besides that, there is also the master’s student association, the Trade and Transport Law Association (TTLA), helping students as much as possible. I even got a job through TTLA early in the year and eventually went on to become the association’s treasurer. This gave me a chance to help organise events such as company visits and social drinks together with my fellow board members.  Unfortunately, the current COVID-19 pandemic cut the year short and shattered plans for a career day which we had planned for all students in March. On the other hand, when concerns grew among students that graduation might get delayed, the university fortunately acted quickly and provided online lectures and online exams for all courses.

If you are interested in maritime and transport law, this programme is definitely worth it. Where possible, the faculty blends in company visits and moot courts that complement the courses that you are following at that time. Furthermore, monthly social drinks, karaoke nights and even online pub quizzes from the student association make sure you keep in touch with students from all four specialisations. For internationals, the university’s international office will be very helpful as it was also very helpful for me when I was in Athens for my exchange semester. Finally, do not let the COVID-19 pandemic keep you from pursuing this master’s degree as the university has implemented lots of digital tools to help students get through the year.

My name is Rubilita Hooff. I’m Dutch and I studied Maritime and Transport Law while being a mom and running a legal office. This is my introduction for saying that I that was an older student during the 2019-2020 master. This is also my introduction for telling everyone who works in the transport industry, and everyone who wants to make a career switch in the field of law, that this LL.M. programme is definitely worth giving up one year of your life.

After having finished my bachelor’s degree at the Open University, I decided to do this master programme for the following reasons. I have working experience in this sector. Once I stepped into this world of shipping, it instantly fascinated me. Furthermore, I have the ambition to practice law either at an insurance company or other related business where specialised people in the maritime and transport sector are highly appreciated and needed. Moreover, I have experienced from my job at the claims department of a shipping company, that there is a lack of qualified legal advisors in this area. So, combining all these reasons, it was only a logical step to sign up for this course. Also, knowing that I would meet people from all over the world was a big bonus.

My experience with this master programme can be best described as a marriage of ten months. You must be fully committed to make it work. The first eight weeks are very confronting, and I have experienced these weeks as very intense. However, this period prepares you for the rest of the programme. You have to do presentations, work with other students, debate, upload assignments continuously (throughout the whole year), perform in a moot court and submit your mini thesis. After that, the programme is divided into different courses which aim to fully master you in every aspect of maritime and transport law.

To those of you who are more mature, and who are seriously considering signing up for this master, I would like to leave you with some thoughts. Be convinced that you want to achieve your goal in the end. Know that you will encounter a very stressful year, and you will want to give up at least three times. However, bear in mind that this programme will reap the rewards for the rest of your life. In the end, it is worth it.

My name is Ana Carolina Gossain and I am working as a Legal Analyst for BG Freight Line BV, the headquarters being in Rotterdam.

BG Freight Line BV is a shipping line that provides a comprehensive range of logistics services to and from Ireland, the UK, and continental Europe. These services include door-to-door shipping, feedering, and quay-to-quay shipping for all types of containerised cargo.

My current work entails drafting Charter Parties, reviewing and providing legal advice regarding Bills of Lading, Terminal Contracts, and Transport Service Agreements. Additionally, I assist the Head of Claims. A working day as a Legal Analyst at BG Freight Line BV roughly looks like coming to work and checking emails first thing, evaluating and drafting several type of contracts, doing legal research, and maintain contact with different stakeholders in order to procure facts and evidence, that will enable us to handle claims properly.

The knowledge I have gained in the Maritime and Transport LL.M is reflected in my work on a daily basis. The courses on Charter Parties and Bills of Lading, Transport Law and Bills of Lading especially, have been crucial to the work I do as a Legal Analyst at BG Freight Line BV.

I am Freda Amoako. I come from Ghana in West Africa. When I decided to pursue an LL.M. programme, I looked for a programme that was both challenging and practical to the core. Maritime and Transport Law was an easy choice because I was aware how the maritime and transport industry affects various facets of the world’s economies. For me, choosing to study Maritime and Transport Law was a sure way of staying relevant in my practice as a lawyer.

The programme began with Research and Writing Skills and I was overwhelmed with the ton of work and group assignments. However, it turned out to be fun, especially through the group assignments as I made new friends. I particularly enjoyed the moot court competition. I thought it was a great way of practicing what had been taught in class. The programme is taught in a practical way. This is particularly evident in the several assignments and workshops that are included in the programme. It is a lot of hard work! If you are looking for a programme that is merely theoretical then pursuing an LL.M. in Maritime and Transport Law at Erasmus School of Law is probably not the way to go. However, if your goal is to gain practical and theoretical knowledge in your LL.M programme., then this is the master for you!

For someone who was coming from very far away, I was anxious about how easy or difficult it would be to adjust to my new environment. Adjusting to the new environment turned out to be easier than anticipated. The relationship between students and lecturers didn’t end in the classroom. I could send emails to my lecturers and get a response. To me that was impressive! The city of Rotterdam is vibrant and yet serene. It has interesting places to visit. It was always great for my friends and me whenever we took walks to relieve the stress after exams.

The COVID-19 pandemic came with challenges and I had my fears concerning the possibility of not being able to graduate due to measures put in place by the Dutch government. It turned out there was nothing to fear because the programme continued as scheduled, only now online.My regret is not having enough time to study the Dutch language. I think it would be awesome if some basic Dutch was included in the programme.

Nevertheless, I am glad I made the decision to study at Erasmus School of Law. In the end, I am positive I will leave the university with so many attributes I didn’t think was possible with university education.

My name is Themis Karvounidis, I am 27 and I come from Greece. After completing my bachelor studies (plus an exchange semester at the University of Vienna) and a master programme on public international law in Greece, I decided to continue my master studies on maritime law in a purely international environment. Rotterdam fulfilled these criteria from the beginning.

The main reason why I chose the master programme of Maritime and Transport Law at  Erasmus School of Law was that, being specialised in the law of the sea during my previous studies, I wanted to further study on maritime issues from a commercial perspective. This programme combined both international and maritime law aspects and studying in Rotterdam felt like studying the right subject at the right place. Furthermore, the city provides a multicultural atmosphere with many social activities and its geographical location helps travelling around the country and experiencing other cultures.

I could describe the programme itself as an intense one. It is divided into blocks of approximately one month and a half, and each block consist of one or two courses, after which exams take place. At the beginning, I prepared myself that this would be very difficult and demanding, since the courses would be taught within a short timeframe and exams would take place often. Despite this being true, I soon realised I could remain focussed a lot more than a structure with multiple semesters as I was used to back in my country. With this structure, I could concentrate on a specific subject each time and get better prepared for more complex issues during the next blocks.

Also, I realised that the programme had a somehow reverse order of difficulty. Even though each block and course has their challenges, the first block (Research and Writing Skills) is the most demanding, with several deadlines from week to week for written and oral assignments. I could predict that any prospective student could feel stressed or discouraged for what comes next, but I can say that the more the programme progresses the more confidence one gets managing deadlines and studying at the same time. In general, the deadlines do not coincide with each other, so I never felt overwhelmed by pressure.

The programme also includes moot courts, visits to international institutions and guest lectures from professionals that give an insight of the industry and help international students to get familiar with stakeholders. The professors are active both academically and professionally, so they express the demands of the market at its current state. From a teaching perspective, they are willing to provide all the necessary material and guidance. Finally, as an international student in Rotterdam during the coronavirus outbreak, I should admit that the institution and our professors and coordinators did their best not letting us feel neglected and continuing the programme as close to normal as possible.

My name is Valeria, I come from Greece, and I am an attorney-at-law in the Athens Bar Association. Before coming to the Netherlands, I had gained my Bachelor’s degree in Law from Democritus University of Thrace as well as an M.Sc. in Banking and Finance Law from the University of Piraeus. 

After my graduation, I was privileged to work for one of the leading Greek law firms in the fields of Banking Law, Commercial Law, and Capital Markets Regulation. It was a unique experience because of the cooperation with experienced, prominent legal professionals, and the chance to work on large-scale, complex cases and with high net-worth individuals.  I expected that my enrollment in the LL.M. Maritime and Transport Law would be a gateway to a challenging future, where I would be called upon to employ the sum of my abilities and knowledge, to fulfill my professional vision, and to meet inspiring multicultural fellow students in order to share common interests and experiences. My expectations have been met in every respect.

I chose Erasmus School of Law because of the strength of its comprehensive curriculum and courses, such as Transport Law, Marine Insurance, and Law of the Ship, which provide extensive knowledge in the field of Maritime and Transport Law, and address my core interests as well. Furthermore, the facilities of the school, the high level of competition, the thorough knowledge and expertise of the professors – as well as the abundance of job opportunities after completion of the programme – are the key elements for a successful choice of a Master’s programme that would lead to my professional actualisation. 

My role at the Erasmus School of Law is double; as well as being a student, I am a board member of the Trade and Transport Law Association (TTLA) as the Commissioner of External Affairs. The TTLA’s main purpose is to represent, support, and connect. It is the face for all Commercial Law students, in all possible internal and external matters.  This organisation supports students mainly by preparing them for the job market through posting vacancies and hosting professional-oriented workshops, introducing students to various possible career paths, and connecting students with each other through social activities.

I was raised in an environment of over-achievers who instilled in me the belief that with hard work, persistence, and patience I could achieve any goal I had in mind. I am in the middle of this wonderful journey, and notwithstanding the difficulties and the rigorous pace that I have to follow, I always keep this thought in mind: All things are possible to those who believe!

I am 21 years old, and was born in Poland, but I spent the first 12 years of my life in the German city of Cologne, before my family moved to Zurich, Switzerland. After graduating from high school in Germany in 2013, I moved to London to obtain my Bachelor’s degree in Law at Kings College London.

I have chosen to join the Maritime & Transport Law programme because shipping and transport law has intrigued me ever since the beginning of my law studies. My decision to study at Erasmus University was mainly because of its location in Rotterdam, home to the largest port in Europe. There are constant opportunities to take part in visits to various companies, such as Maersk Liners, the Port Authority in Rotterdam, the Dutch P&I club, and Damen Shipbuilding, as well as plenty more companies that are active in the shipping industry. Outside of my studies, I enjoy snowboarding and playing various team sports such as American Football, Rugby, and Soccer. After completing this L.L.M. programme, I intend to take part in the Legal Practice Course (LPC) in London, with a view to working in the future as a solicitor at a legal practice that specialises in Transport & Maritime Law.

In my experience, studying at ESL has been demanding, but at the same time very interesting. Life in Rotterdam is comparable to life in Zurich, since both cities are relatively quiet, as well as being clean and efficient. My advice to any incoming students is to participate in the various company visits, as they provide tremendous insights into the operations of the many different parties involved in the shipping industry. 

I am Mauricio García, a 29-year-old lawyer from Bogotá, Colombia. I have a Bachelor’s degree and a specialisation degree from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. During my specialisation in Commercial Law I discovered my passion for Transportation, mainly aviation and maritime. I subsequently decided to forge my path in this exciting world. After some years gaining experience as a lawyer in transportation matters, in 2014 I decided to join my brother in an ambitious project − called Garciarboleda Abogados − to develop our specialised law firm in Transportation Law. Being committed to the challenging and gratifying experience of leading a law firm encouraged me to keep improving my skills and knowledge as a transportation lawyer, especially in the maritime field. I realised there was no better place in the world to achieve that goal than Rotterdam − the heart of the maritime world in Europe.

The decision to take the LL.M. in Maritime and Transport Law at Erasmus University has been without doubt the best choice regarding my professional goals. Indeed, this Master Programme perfectly combines the theoretical and the practical side of maritime law, because in addition to having the most recognised legal authorities in this field as professors, there are various company visits, which offer insights into the exciting maritime world. This perfect balance between theory and practice has provided me with tools to provide legal services in the maritime field, and with the highest standards of professionalism and quality.

In addition, the experience of living in Rotterdam is just perfect.The city is full of energy, friendly and multicultural people, and multiple transportation choices suitable to every budget. Rotterdam is also well organised, with beautiful places to meet up with friends. It makes your life as a student easier in every way.

For prospective students who are considering obtaining an LL.M. at Erasmus School of Law, I would advise you not to think twice about it. There is no better place in the world to learn about Maritime Law, and at the same time have the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable life experience that includes making friends from different countries, learning about the fascinating Dutch culture, travelling through this beautiful country, and being located in a hub that is perfectly located to reach many other marvelous places in Europe.

Finally, I would like to share a quote that I live by: ‘Happiness is a choice of life; enjoy what you do daily, and do it from your heart’.

‘Goedemorgen allemaal’ (Dutch for: Good morning, everybody!). I am Ottavia, a 26-year-old student from Italy, who is currently enrolled in one of the unique LL.M. programmes offered at Erasmus School of Law in Rotterdam.

After graduating in law in my country of origin, I started working as a trainee lawyer. I coincidentally ended up in in Genoa, in one of Italy’s most internationally orientated Maritime law firms. My work experience there motivated me to pursue a master’s degree in Maritime Law in the city where Europe’s most important port is located: Rotterdam!

If I could name one place to obtain a master in Maritime Law, it would be Erasmus School of Law. You will not only study the theories on which Maritime and Transport law are based, but you will also gain a practical insight into how they apply. Moreover, because of the organisation of monthly visits to different companies, you get the chance to visit the harbour’s business leaders. During my year at Erasmus University, I developed a special interest in Transport Law, and I see myself working as a claim handler in the near future.

As well as studying and visiting several companies, I am active as a volunteer for the Yearbook Committee. Together with LL.M. students from the Company and Commercial Law and International and European Union Law programmes, I am responsible for publishing the Yearbook 2016-2017. It has been a great opportunity to work on this project with other students. I have the chance to conduct interviews with prominent professors, to develop my creative writing, and to improve essential skills such as time-management and teamwork.

I have one final tip for international students: I learned that you cannot survive in a Dutch city without a bike… So actually I would change the Beatles lyrical line ‘All you need is love’ to  ‘…a bike is all you need’.