Enquire to study in the UK 
From Shaoxing, China, to the prestigious legal circles of Switzerland, Lola Tang’s path illustrates her ambition and adaptability. After completing law school and fully qualifying as a lawyer in the US, Lola was captivated by Switzerland’s unique blend of cultures and professional opportunities. However, entering the Swiss legal market required more than just determination — it required a deep understanding of the local legal system.
This led her to the Institute for International Business Law (IBL) at the University of Fribourg, a distinguished place where international students can pursue a Swiss law degree in English. Located in a bilingual city at the heart of Europe, this 250-year-old institution has been nurturing sharp legal minds, preparing them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate complex legal environments worldwide.
IBL professors are experts in their field who are great at simplifying complex concepts and emphasising their practical relevance. Source: University of Fribourg
Building a comprehensive legal toolkit
IBL’s LLM and CAS programmes cater to a diverse range of legal professionals, from recent graduates to experienced practitioners looking to transition into new areas. The programmes offer flexibility with full-time, part-time, hybrid, and online study options to accommodate different professional and personal commitments. Tang chose the International Business Law track, which allowed her to leverage her US legal training and gain a competitive edge in the Swiss and European legal markets.
One of the standout experiences for Tang was the course “Introduction to Swiss Law of Contracts” taught by Prof. Dr. Arnaud Nussbaumer, an ordinary professor at the University of Fribourg. His engaging teaching style, which blends traditional methods with the Socratic method, made complex legal principles approachable and emphasised the practical aspects of Swiss contract law, particularly the recognition of verbal agreements.
Another notable lecture that had a significant impact on her was “Do’s and Don’ts in International Negotiations” delivered by Dr. Beat Brechbühl, Managing Partner of Switzerland’s top law firm and a seasoned legal counsel. His practical advice, rooted in extensive experience, provided Tang with valuable insights directly applicable to her burgeoning career.
IBL students connect with top law firms, corporations, and regulators, unlocking career-defining opportunities. Source: University of Fribourg
Expanding professional networks
At IBL, education extends beyond the classroom. Students connect with leading figures in the legal field through guest lectures and networking events. Tang’s proactive engagement at these events facilitated her internship at Switzerland’s top law firm.
Beyond academic rigour, Lola has embraced the Swiss lifestyle, finding joy in her passions for skiing and travelling. Switzerland’s prime location offers easy access to some of Europe’s top ski resorts and travel destinations, making it an ideal setting for her to balance her professional ambitions with personal pursuits.
Discover how the University of Fribourg’s Institute for International Business Law is preparing the next generation of legal professionals. Follow the institute’s journey on Instagram and LinkedIn for updates and insights.
