Mauricio Gómez-Rodríguez

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.