Álvaro Botella
Álvaro Botella is a student of the Doble Máster de Acceso a la Abogacía. After completing a dual degree in business and law, traveling through Southeast Asia and studying in Taiwan, Álvaro decided to continue his studies in the legal sector. Following in his family’s footsteps, he chose an area he has a lot of interest in: the practice of law. The legal profession is his vocation. For this reason, he didn’t think twice about studying a master’s degree that offered him a well-rounded, cutting-edge education in a field defined by its constant evolution. He says that studying at IE Law School has been an excellent decision, being able to acquire a global vision while getting real-world experience in the field of law. What’s more, he has also managed to integrate those specific tools that turn the profession’s routine into a sustainable success. His classmates have been an essential part of his time at IE. They have all become close friends, learning and sharing as they discovered a new sphere of law.
"A team built on trust and solidarity gets better results."
Why did you decide to study law and do the Máster de Acceso a la Abogacía at IE?
I decided to do a Dual Degree in Law and Business.
When the time came to make a decision about my university studies, I had no doubt that I wanted to focus my professional career in law. The fact that many of my family members work in this sector also meant that I had a special interest in it.
However, I also realized that the current job market is very competitive, and, in order to differentiate myself from the rest, it was necessary to study a dual degree. I understood that the best complement to my law undergrad would be ADE (business and management studies), as it contains essential knowledge in understanding how businesses work, as well as meeting the challenges and needs of organizations.
After completing my undergrad, I was still set on pursuing my career in the legal profession. In order to do to this, I had to first do the Máster de Acceso. I chose IE after exploring many different options. I was drawn by the high-quality of the teaching staff, their unique and innovative teaching methodology – which I think helps the student understand the daily life of a jurist better – and by this institution’s fantastic reputation.
What stands out from your experience, both professionally and personally, at IE Law School? Any stories you’d like to share?
If I compare my knowledge when starting the master’s program with my skill level upon completing my studies, I think that the experience has been worthwhile. In a short period of time, I have acquired a broad understanding of law, not only from a theoretical viewpoint, but also from a wholly practical perspective.
On a personal level, I believe that the master’s has given me the opportunity to meet many new people who I will always call my friends. Hopefully our paths will cross again in the world of work.
What areas of law interest you and why?
The truth is that it would be easier to talk about the areas that I like the least, but, if I had to highlight two areas that attract me the most, I would say commercial law and intellectual property.
The reason that I find these two areas especially interesting is that they allow me to apply my legal knowledge alongside my business knowledge. Furthermore, the dynamism and complexity of these branches of law make them hugely attractive due to the breadth of possibilities they provide when planning and offering solutions for different operations.
Do you believe that IE gives you a more global and comparative view of law?
As I’ve previously mentioned, I think the teaching method at IE allows you to develop the skills that are essential in the professional life of a lawyer. A clear example of this is working as part of a team. It is also a hugely practical system that allows you to assimilate a large number of concepts through case studies based on real and currently relevant contexts. It is for this reason that I am convinced that IE gives you a global and comparative view of law.
Have you used the IE Talent & Careers department services during the program? Have you used any resources that this department offers? (Advising sessions, Company Presentations, Career Portal, etc.)
Since starting my master’s, I have had several meetings with my Talent & Careers’ advisor, and truthfully it’s helped me a lot. They helped me clear up all the doubts that I had about my professional career and choose the right firm for my internship.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned in the master’s and do you apply it to your professional life today?
I think that the importance of teamwork is one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in the master’s program. A team built on trust and solidarity gets better results.
Have you had any experience abroad? What did you learn from the experience regarding the culture, and the way they view the law?
I have had several experiences abroad, the most recent being in Taiwan. The truth is that the experience was unparalleled. I had the opportunity to travel through many countries and appreciate the major differences between Western and Asian cultures.
This experience helped me to mature personally, and it gave me the opportunity to meet many different people from different parts of the world who I still regard as friends.
Needless to say, the way law is seen in Taiwan is totally different, despite it being a country with a significant Western influence. While here we are lucky enough to be living under a highly developed rule of law, in Taiwan, their perception of the law is less modernized, and there is little safeguarding. In certain cases, criminal matters are subject to “eye for an eye” justice.
What are your hobbies and interests? What do you like to do in your free time?
Among my hobbies is, of course, sport. For me, sport is essential, not only to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but above all, for the values that it gives you. Another hobby I have is traveling. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit many different countries, which has allowed me to explore a variety of perspectives, something that is vital in the modern, globalized world we live in. I also like reading and listening to music. And, of course, it’s always important to find time for friends and family.
