Gwenn-Lise Groll, a third-year law student in Bachelor en Droit, embodies the modern student: multilingual, multicultural, and highly driven. This year alone, she has represented Luxembourg in the MIRAI programme and travelled to Japan, interned with the Conseil d’État, worked for our Student Department (SEVE), and actively participated in student organizations – all while pursuing her intense law studies.
Her secret? Curiosity and a passion for embracing challenges. Originally from Strasbourg, France, Gwenn-Lise says she views each opportunity – whether international exchanges or administrative work – as a chance to expand her skills. We spoke with Gwenn-Lise to learn more about her life as an active student.
Gwenn-Lise, you’re a very active student! This year alone, you were selected for the MIRAI programme, participated in our Open Day, worked for SEVE, and completed an internship with the Conseil d’État. You’re also an active member of ELSA and ANELD. What motivates you to pursue so many opportunities?
I am driven by curiosity and a passion for growth. Each opportunity, whether the MIRAI program, my internship, or involvement with ELSA and ANELD, helps me develop skills, expand my network, and gain unique perspectives that enrich both my studies and personal development. Since coming to Luxembourg, I’ve realized that the best way for me to grow is by stepping out of my comfort zone, something I make a point to do regularly. I push myself to participate in social activities and meet new people because I am determined to fully commit to every opportunity that comes my way.
What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from these experiences? Has the University of Luxembourg played a role in enabling you to pursue these opportunities?
The most valuable lesson I have learned is the importance of adaptability and collaboration in diverse environments. Indeed, it is through every relationship and experience I have had that better things have come my way. The most valuable lesson a friend once shared with me is that the more you think, the less you end up doing. Also, never having expectations allows you to be pleasantly surprised by whatever comes your way.
The University of Luxembourg has been pivotal in supporting me with resources, guidance, and encouragement, enabling me to seize these opportunities and significantly contributing to my professional and academic growth.
What inspired you to apply for the MIRAI program? What are you most looking forward to experiencing in Japan? How did you feel upon learning you were selected from such a large group of applicants?
I was inspired to apply for the MIRAI program because of the opportunity to engage with an international community and the incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience of representing my country alongside other European leaders. I am most excited to experience its culture (ramen, anime, karaoke) firsthand and create memories with global peers.
Being selected from a large pool of applicants was an incredible honour and a huge surprise, especially given how competitive this year’s applications were. It was incredibly rewarding, as it was a result of my own efforts, curiosity, and determination.
I will forever be grateful for this opportunity, for the amazing people I met, the memories I created, and the places I had the chance to visit.
As Luxembourg’s representative in the MIRAI program, what do you hope to share about our country with other participants?
As Luxembourg’s representative in the MIRAI program, I hope to highlight our unique multilingualism, cultural diversity, and commitment to sustainability. I would also emphasize how, despite being a small nation, Luxembourg plays a significant role on the global stage. And of course, perhaps start by showing where Luxembourg is located on the map!
Luxembourg offers numerous opportunities for students and professionals alike, and by participating in the MIRAI program, I’ve come to realize that my peers are also interested in the international environment. I feel compelled to promote the opportunities and support I’ve received since arriving here—chances that I likely wouldn’t have encountered if I had stayed in Strasbourg.
How do you hope the MIRAI experience will impact your studies and career, especially given your interest in international and environmental law?
The MIRAI program has reinforced my strong interest in international relations, as well as European and global cooperation. This experience has provided me with invaluable insights into how collaboration between nations can address global challenges, particularly in areas like climate policy and sustainability. It has solidified my desire to specialize in international and environmental law, as I am passionate about contributing to solutions that promote unity and progress on a global scale.
Therefore, I plan to apply for the Master 1 in European Law at the University of Luxembourg, as I have realized that Luxembourg is the ideal place for me to expand my European and international knowledge, all while being immersed in a vibrant international community.
You’ve also worked in the Admissions Department of SEVE at the University of Luxembourg. How has that experience been for you?
Working in SEVE’s Admissions Department has been highly rewarding. It has allowed me to engage with prospective students, improve my organizational skills, and gain valuable insight into the administrative aspects of academia. I was eager to find a role where I could help students while meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and this job provided that opportunity. Having the feeling of contributing to the well-being of both the people and the university was truly rewarding.
I particularly enjoyed representing SEVE during last year’s Open Days, where I had the chance to meet prospective students—some of whom I occasionally bump into on campus.
You come from Strasburg. What led you to choose the University of Luxembourg for your studies, particularly in the field of law?
In three words: cosmopolitanism, professionalism, global outlook.
I chose the University of Luxembourg for its excellence in law and its multilingual, international focus. Its small class sizes and proximity to European institutions provide unparalleled opportunities to connect theory with practice. Compared to other universities, especially those in France, I realized that Luxembourg offers a unique international perspective with opportunities like the mandatory Erasmus program and the Global Exchange program. Additionally, the required internship provides valuable professional experience. What sets Luxembourg apart is the collaborative environment, where both professors and peers work together to achieve excellence.
I felt that the students here were working towards a common goal, that they were here for a reason and wanted to achieve the best for themselves. This determination and work environment inspired me to apply.
And how is studying law at the University of Luxembourg different from studying at the University of Sheffield, where you went for your Erasmus exchange?
Studying law at the University of Luxembourg has provided a strong focus on EU and international law with a practical perspective, while my Erasmus exchange at Sheffield broadened my understanding of common law systems.
Both experiences have been complementary and enriching, with numerous opportunities to meet international students through societies and social activities. I have met people from all over the world, some of whom I still keep in touch with, even a year later. It’s always struck me as fascinating that despite coming from such diverse backgrounds—I had friends from Japan, China, Bangladesh, the UK, Germany, and Spain—we all got along perfectly. My best memory of Sheffield was when my Chinese friend made a traditional Chinese dish, which we shared with 10 people, all from different countries. It was a wonderful experience of cultural exchange and togetherness.
For students considering law at the University of Luxembourg, what advice would you give on making the most of academic and extracurricular opportunities?
Take advantage of every opportunity the University offers; internships, exchanges, and extracurriculars. Engage actively in your studies, network with peers and professors, and don’t hesitate to explore interdisciplinary interests that broaden your horizons. Step out of your comfort zone, it’s an opportunity to grow, discover new experiences, and learn more about yourself.
The more opportunities you create, the more you’ll receive, and the more people you’ll meet—everything is part of a virtuous cycle. Don’t wait for experiences to shape your future; instead, actively create those experiences and let them shape the future you want for yourself.
All images ©Gwenn-Lise GROLL