María Fernández López
My name is María Fernández López, and I’m from León. I studied a dual degree in law and business administration at the Complutense University of Madrid. I later went on to study the Doble Máster en Abogacía y Asesoría Fiscal de Empresas at IE Law School. I’d like to be able to build my career at a Big Four company or an international firm, and one day become a partner.
I am consistent, responsible and a perfectionist. I also love to put my all into the projects and challenges that are set before me. I describe myself as cheerful, funny and a bit high-strung. And this year at IE Law School has helped me not only set my goals, but it has also given me the opportunity to meet people. I’m coming away from this experience with lifelong friends.
"If I were to go back in time and have to choose which program to study and where, I would choose IE Law School again."
Why did you choose IE Law School for your Doble Máster en Abogacía y Asesoría Fiscal de Empresas?
For the practical methodology that forms the program’s foundation. After several years of studying law from a very theoretical perspective during my undergrad, I wanted to see that theory put into practice.
From a practical perspective, you not only achieve a quick and lasting foundation of knowledge, but you also prepare yourself for practicing law as a professional in the future.
Why did you choose to specialize in tax consultancy?
During the dual degree, I was very unsure whether I wanted to do a specialization, and later, when I decided to do one, I wasn’t sure whether to specialize in tax consultancy or legal consultancy.
However, when I started to look closely at the tax-related courses, I knew for certain that I wanted to build my future career in the tax consultancy field. I also think that specializing while pursuing the Máster de Abogacía is essential when it comes to competing with other candidates.
What has been the biggest highlight about the program?
The teaching methodology used in class. Not only because of the case studies approach, which helps you to build technical knowledge and engage in other types of activities, but also because of the way the professors at IE Law School teach classes, encouraging proactive participation from students. That way, we can all share our ideas and learn from each other.
Tell us something that surprised you about IE Law School and the program.
The way all IE Law School departments are involved over the course of the master’s degree, and not only on a purely academic level. IE Law School’s follow-up with its students is exceptional, especially on matters that we all were very concerned about from the beginning, such as getting an internship as quickly as possible.
IE Law School also uses events and different workshops to provide you with other types of tools or skills that are not directly related to law, but that will undoubtedly help us in our work as lawyers.
Is there anything you’ve recently learned at IE Law School that others should know and that you’ll always carry with you?
The importance of not focusing only on strict academics. That’s not to overlook the effort and dedication required to study one of IE Law School’s Dobles Másters en Abogacía, but the human factor is also very important. Try to socialize as much as possible, not only with your classmates, but also with the rest of the students of the Dobles Másters en Abogacía and other programs.
What advice would you give someone who’s considering the program?
If I were to go back in time and have to choose which program to study and where, I would choose IE Law School again. The quality of the programs and faculty is incredible. I would encourage anyone to study this program, regardless of their hesitations, especially if they want to develop a career in a large law firm and learn in a different and practical way.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I see myself growing professionally in a large law firm, even becoming a partner in one of them and leading my own team.
How would you summarize your experience at IE Law School in just a few words?
If I had to describe my experience in one word, I would say it has been AMAZING. Not only because of the technical knowledge I’ve acquired, but also because this year has taught me to be more ambitious, responsible and dedicated. These months I’ve spent at IE Law School have also helped me set my professional goals and aspirations. Last but not least, I have had the opportunity to meet new people and make friendships that will last a lifetime.
Visit her LinkedIn Profile.
