Meet our students

Tom Knox, Master’s student International & European Law: European Competition Law and Regulation

Tom choose the Academic Excellence track because he wanted to challenge himself and at the same time develop his skills (e.g. analysis, interpretation) as a lawyer. ‘The Academic Excellence Track is enlightening, challenging and enjoyable in equal parts’, says Tom. ‘Being pushed to think laterally and outside of the box and to question why things are the way they are was such a unique experience.’

‘We applied some of the theories and teachings we had been exposed to, including those of Michel Foucault, to delve into how inequality is automated in the decisions taken by governments. We asked if and how the law may be able to effect change in the future. Now, reading about this and other similar topics in the news I have a completely new appreciation and see if through a different lens.’

Top notch lecturers

‘The relationship between the 4 passionate lecturers was clearly very good which led to an enjoyable and positive atmosphere. The track pushes you to think for yourself, form your own opinions and communicate these to the class. Whilst the course was challenging, I felt that I was fully supported to speak about my thoughts and ideas. The guest lecturers were also top notch, each bringing their own style and way of interpreting the fundamental topic of the course – law as a change maker.’

Contact with other students

‘Despite the entire course being held online, the group presentation task at the end of the course allowed for more personal and direct contact with other students. Finally, I really enjoyed being surrounded by students who were enthusiastic and willing to challenge themselves. This encouraged me to work hard and participate, which was great.’

Developing skills

‘If thinking outside the box and beyond the black letter of the law intrigues you, then this course is for you. You will develop skills that will serve you well during your future career whether that be in the law or academia!’

Amber Mulder, Master’s student Constitutional and Administrative Law

Amber chose the Academic Excellence Track because she enjoys the combination of researching and writing. 'I am someone who likes to research things thoroughly and wants to know everything before I act.'

Insight into the research world

The research internship of the Academic Excellence Track gives students a look behind the scenes: 'What goes on in the research world?’ Amber spent 2 days a week in the Dutch section Staats- en bestuursrecht, making her a real part of the research team. She got to know the colleagues there very well. During her internship she co-wrote the study ‘Financieren in netwerken’. This is a project about government financing. Especially in the field of loans and guarantees. The outcomes are published on a website that governments use to see which financing instruments are suitable for which social purpose. 'I enjoy it because it's so concrete.'

Law as a Change Maker

The course 'Law as a Change Maker' is part of the Academic Excellence track. Among other things, the course deals with the ethical questions you ask yourself as a lawyer when working in research. Questions such as: What is the impact on society of my chosen research design? How do we establish truth? How do I deal with bias? As a student, the course teaches you how to find your role as a researcher. 'In the internship, I was able to apply that immediately,' says Amber.

Trip to the European Court in Luxembourg

Besides the internship, Amber's most memorable experience is the trip to the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg. It was her first excursion from the UvA. The AcET students were given a guided tour and attended a lawsuit. During the visit, they also got to know each other better. 'There are people I still keep in touch with, both Dutch and international students. You follow the programme with students from other Master's programmes so you quickly become a close-knit group because you are all new to each other.'

A good addition to your CV

‘AcET gave me an innovative look at what you can do in your work, no matter what kind of work you are going to do.' The programme is a good addition to your CV, even if you already know you want to work in practice. 'It shows that you have looked beyond that. And that you have sharpened your writing skills, which, after all, you need in any legal job.'

Amber is now a junior lecturer in the Constitutional and Administrative Law section. She is currently working on her own academic article within the research project ‘Financieren in Netwerken’.