Yaqi Ma

Yaqi Ma has big dreams for her future—and for the world. Currently studying the Master of Laws (LL.M.) at IE University with a specialization in international dispute resolution, she aspires to use her legal skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in the world, resolving disputes, fostering collaboration and promoting peace. Yaqi’s arrival at IE University marked an important step on the path toward realizing her dreams. She strongly believes in following her inner voice and says that’s exactly what has led her here.

Before coming to IE University, Yaqi studied in both China and the US. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in law from China University of Political Science and Law. During her studies, Yaqi took full advantage of opportunities outside the classroom: she was enrolled in the International Legal Talents Pilot Program and also attended a youth forum on China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global cooperation initiative that has been jointly constructed by over 150 countries and more than 30 international organizations.

With the insights that she gained, Yaqi was inspired to attend a summer program in the US about the American legal system, because, she says, “I felt that it was my responsibility to grow into such a competent lawyer that I could serve the progress of society through my ability to cooperate with people in different countries.” This program was what sparked her dream of becoming an international lawyer. She also completed internships at Sidley Austin LLP, King & Wood Mallesons, Tahota Law Firm and Beijing Changping District People’s Court during her bachelor’s studies, gaining experience in litigation and transactions across various sectors.

With her interest in the US legal system growing, Yaqi went to Indiana University Bloomington, where she obtained her Juris Doctor (JD) degree. While there, she gained further valuable experience and insights, carrying out externships at the California Air Resources Board, Tenants Law Firm and the United States District Court for the Southern District of California.

Yaqi highlights her time at the US District Court as being particularly fulfilling. In her words, the experience encouraged her to “keep pursuing” her dream and deepening her interest in international dispute resolution. She also discovered some new interests: learning Spanish, exploring diverse cultures and a desire to build a connection with Latin America into her career. Yaqi was now convinced that pursuing an education in Spain would be something that she wouldn’t regret.

IE University turned out to be her number one choice. The diverse IE Community fulfilled her desire to connect with people from around the world. Proving her commitment to sustainability, Yaqi applied for, and was honored to be awarded, the CSC-IE Scholarship in Global Governance and Sustainable Development, an agreement between IE University and the China Scholarship Council. “I feel grateful that I am supported by my country to pursue my interests and continue my studies,” Yaqi says.

Now part-way through the Master of Laws (LL.M.) program, Yaqi already describes her experience as “fulfilling.” The diversity that had initially attracted her to IE University is one of the things that she values most. “I am able to study with classmates from many different countries and gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures,” she explains. She is reaping the benefits of learning from “a world-class faculty composed of academics and practitioners from major international seats,” as well as connecting with a wide network of peers and professionals.

Yaqi also appreciates the extra value that IE University adds through its partnerships with global organizations and the unique learning experiences that it offers to its students. Master of Laws (LL.M.) students have the opportunity to participate in the Legal Immersion Experience, where they gain hands-on experience within the area of specialization that they choose. Yaqi visited the International Chamber of Commerce, where she had “a first-hand view of the world of international arbitration by listening to lectures, doing practical exercises and observing a court session.” She was also able to attend a conference on climate litigation at a leading law firm and build connections with Paris-based lawyers.

In addition to this, Yaqi has benefited from IE University’s membership in CIVICA, the European University of Social Sciences. She participated in a policy simulation about climate-induced conflict in the Arctic Region, organized by CIVICA and the IPLI Foundation, during which she worked with peers from other European higher education institutions.

Yaqi’s motto is “Embrace who I am, believe in myself and courageously pursue the goals I deem most important.” She encourages future potential students on her program to do the same. To her, self-belief and trusting your instinct are key: “If you truly believe that pursuing the program matters to you, follow your inner voice and make a bold decision.”