Martin Maxa

When I was asked to write a testimonial for new students coming to study at the Law Faculty of the University of Groningen, I happily accepted and thought it was a great opportunity to tell you a little about my academic experience in the Masters programme, as well as something about ‘not too academic’ life in Groningen.

I have already completed my LLM studies in Groningen and I am working as a trainee attorney in a Law Firm back in my country. Although I enjoy my current work, I must say that it was really sad to leave the Master programme and Groningen. During this past year, I have felt at home with classmates, professors and staff. I would say that people in this programme are like one big family, where everybody knows each other and we all enjoy each others’ company.

At the Law Faculty you will meet with classmates, staff, professors, other students from undergraduate levels, doctoral students, exchange students and other Master students. They are just so friendly and willing to help that the ‘home feeling’ is evident from the day you first come here to register. Professors and thesis supervisors are very open and friendly, so don't worry about calling them, e-mailing them or stopping by to chat with them, they will always be happy if you come to see them.

Personally, I have felt very much at home in Groningen. Although Groningen does not belong to one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands, its size also has advantages. It is a very friendly and safe place and relatively cheap. A large population of students, many night clubs and bars and University’s sports facilities would fill your free time, so you would never feel bored.

To summarize my experience from a one year stay in Groningen, I have to say that the Law Faculty and the city of Groningen provided a right mix of academic activities and leisure time, which together made my time in Groningen an unforgettable experience.

Martin Maxa, Slovakia, LLM student European Market Law