Maria Louca

Why did you choose Surrey?

My supervisor Dr Arman Sarvarian is one of the main reasons why I returned to Surrey for my PhD, along with Surrey’s great location and welcoming environment which I had experienced in my LLM in International Law in 2012.

What is your strongest memory of Surrey?

Surrey Law School has provided a great nurturing environment for me to grow as an academic and in that time, the School has helped me grow into a confident professional.

One of the strongest memories is the first time I walked into the lecture theatre as a Lecturer, ready to deliver my first lecture in EU Law.

What were the best things about your course?

The PhD community created at the School of Law provides PhD students with academic and emotional support, both important for the delivery of great results. The exceptional guidance provided by my supervisor, Dr Sarvarian, has not only helped me to deliver my research project but also understand the industry and as a result secure a lectureship at the University of Leicester. 

What do you do now and what do you find most enjoyable about your work?

Academia offers the opportunity to inspire and get equally inspired by others. Interacting with different people every day and extent your horizons is one of the best highlights.

How did your time at Surrey help you choose what career to go into? 

My PhD experience at Surrey has helped me solidify my decision for a career in academia as the programme gradually introduces you to all aspects of academia, ranging from teaching to conference participation and organisation and much more.

What is your advice for students aspiring to work in your profession?

Have a plan and be patient! Resilience is one of the most important assets.

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