Oumaïma El Bouhmadi is an International Student who studied on the Law and Technology LLM.

Why did you choose to come to Queen’s?

I was an Erasmus student first during the 2019/2020 academic year and Queen’s University was one of my university’s partners. I chose Queen’s for its ranking in law and advancement in the tech field.

I was not wrong and particularly enjoyed my time in Belfast. Therefore, I chose to prolong it and the Law and Technology L.L.M interested me considerably. I applied and, here I am.

What has been the highlights of your course to date?

 The quality of the classes and discussions with the lecturers. The professors always pushed our reflexions further and encouraged us to develop sharp critical thinking. They questioned what we took for granted and fuelled my intellectual curiosity.

 Are there certain modules that you particularly enjoyed and, if so, why?

 I particularly enjoyed Competition law, both during my Erasmus and during my L.L.M. The classes were very different from what I was used to in France, as the class was built around our participations and endeavours.

Another class which particularly marked me was the “Law and the challenges of technology” module; This class ventured in various academic fields (sociology, philosophy, psychology) and encouraged a global multidisciplinary appreciation of the matters discussed. Professor Morison was a wonderful teacher, always available to discuss ideas with humility and kindness, prone to debate and was always challenging our thoughts.

These two classes, and those who teach them, shaped the way I apprehended law and gave me the appropriate tools to accurately apprehend the challenges to come, both professionally and academically.

What is the theme for your dissertation?

 The theme of my dissertation is the apprehension of the psychological strategies deployed by digital platforms to circumvent human independent decision making abilities. A mouthful, I know.

What do you think of the facilities at Queen’s – library, setting etc?

 Unfortunately, due to COVID I did not have full access to Queen’s facilities. However, during my Erasmus, I fully enjoyed the full access to the library, the offers to meet with advisors, the extra-curricular activities (Queen’s Sport, Speakeasy) and the overall ambiance at Queen’s.

 Also, as a Moroccan student, I had to apply for a Tier 4 visa. The International team was very helpful and smoothed the process.

 Would you recommend Queen’s and, if so, why?

I would, and do, recommend Queen’s. I had a unique experience there, on the academic and social level. After living in Casablanca for most of my life, then in Lyon, I arrived in Belfast expecting a huge cultural clash. I was very pleased to meet open minded, kind and helpful people. I always felt welcome, cultural differences are celebrated and cherished.

My experience in Queen’s, both during my Erasmus and the L.L.M was the highlight of my scolarity.

 Did you get involved in any clubs or societies etc outside of class?

 I was part of the international student association and the handball team.

 What was it like living in Belfast?

 Living in Belfast was a breath of fresh air ; almost like time had stopped. The quality of life is immense, the people are open-minded and the city is very cosmopolitan. I met people, both students and professionals, who came from all around the world.

Moreover, as a girl, I have never felt safer than on the streets of Belfast. A sense of safety reigns over the city.

 What are your plans for the future?

 I am doing a second Masters, in Telecommunications law in the University of Paris as well as an apprenticeship in a French television channel company.