Sihan Zhang
My name is Sihan Zhang and I come from Shandong Province in eastern China. My interest in taxation and international business law came from my experiences teaching Chinese in France and interning at a law firm in China. My long-term goal is to become a tax lawyer or consultant, helping businesses navigate complex international regulations. I believe in setting clear goals and working steadily to achieve them, and my time at IE University has been instrumental in shaping that path.
“IE University’s international environment has allowed me to engage with classmates from diverse backgrounds, broadening my perspective and deepening my understanding of international business law.”
A transformative journey to International Business Law at IE University
Originally from Shandong Province in China, Sihan began her studies in history, earning both undergraduate and master’s degrees in the field. However, her passion for law, particularly tax law, led her to explore new avenues. With the support of the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and IE University, she began the Master of Laws (LL.M.) program, specializing in International Business Law.
Studying at IE University proved to be a turning point. She was drawn to the program’s hands-on learning approach, which integrates case studies, group projects and real-world legal challenges. As someone who considers herself an introvert, Sihan found the university’s collaborative atmosphere crucial in helping her gain confidence and refine her communication skills. “IE University attracted me with its global perspective and interactive teaching methods,” she shares.
Sihan also found her classmates and their experience invaluable, particularly those who had practiced tax law. Their insights, combined with the program’s focus on international tax policies and corporate compliance, gave her a well-rounded understanding of the field. This reaffirmed her commitment to pursuing a career in international tax law.
Sihan’s interest in taxation and global economics was the driving force behind her decision to pursue a specialization in International Business Law. She was particularly keen to deepen her understanding of how legal frameworks shape international business operations. “The courses at IE University provided me with a comprehensive perspective, allowing me to analyze business issues from both legal and economic viewpoints,” she explains.
Additionally, the CSC scholarship played an important role in helping Sihan to pursue her studies at IE University. It provided more than just financial support: she also gained access to an innovative and international academic environment that has shaped her aspirations. “This scholarship has given me a unique and transformative opportunity,” she says. “It has also encouraged me to develop public speaking, communication and critical thinking skills.”
So what’s next for Sihan now that her studies at IE University are complete? Eager to apply her knowledge in an international setting, she aims to work for an international organization specializing in tax law, where she can contribute her expertise in addressing global fiscal challenges. She acknowledges that this new career path wouldn’t have been possible without IE University and the CSC scholarship. Going forward, she’s on track to make a positive impact in the legal world.