École

Vous êtes ici : Accueil > École > Portraits

Amel Mahzoul

Alumna of the Cross-borddr Disputes Master's program ( Previously CEPIL )

What is your current position and what does it involve?

I am a legal adviser at the European Commission in Brussels. I lead a major project to amend a common regulation, which involves drafting amendment proposals and coordinating negotiations with stakeholders to reach a consensus. At the same time, as the sole legal point of contact for my unit, I serve as the main reference for all legal and litigation-related matters. I provide cross-cutting legal support by drafting analyses, opinions, and briefing notes to ensure legal certainty in decision-making and to support the sector’s strategic direction.

How did your training at ESL help you in your career?

My training at ESL, as part of the double LLM in Comparative European Private International Law (now Cross-border Disputes), was instrumental in launching my career. The features of the program, particularly its dual degree structure, the integrated mobility at the University of Dundee, and the fact that all courses were taught in English, directly contributed to my entry into the European Commission, where I started as a Blue Book trainee. These elements matched the Commission’s selection criteria and strengthened the competitiveness of my profile in a highly demanding environment.
Beyond the academic content, ESL also provided a valuable platform for developing and showcasing transversal skills. I had the opportunity to represent ESL as a competitor in the Jessup Moot Court Competition and was elected president of the CEPIL master’s association. These experiences helped me refine my advocacy, leadership, and project management skills, qualities that are particularly sought after within the European institutions as well as in other high-pressure professional environments.

Your best memory from school?

I don’t have one specific memory that stands out, as I truly enjoyed my entire experience at ESL. What I remember most are the connections I made throughout the program, both at ESL and during the mobility period at the University of Dundee. I had the privilege of evolving in a stimulating international environment, surrounded by committed students with diverse backgrounds, with whom I shared two enriching years both academically and personally. The discussions, group work, joint projects, and overall class dynamics all played a major role in making this time a memorable chapter in my journey. 

Any advice for current students?

It is perfectly normal, as a student, not to know exactly what you want to do after your studies. We often have many questions without immediate answers. My advice is to accept that a career is built gradually, sometimes with detours, and that the key is to stay active and curious. Build your network, especially on LinkedIn, by reaching out to people whose career paths inspire you. Do not hesitate to suggest a conversation, over the phone or, if possible, a coffee, and prepare a list of questions to better understand their journey. The goal is not to directly ask for an internship or a job, but to show genuine interest in their experience. Over time, these interactions leave a positive impression, and they might make a difference when opportunities arise.



En appuyant sur le bouton "j'accepte" vous nous autorisez à déposer des cookies afin de mesurer l'audience de notre site. Ces données sont à notre seul usage et ne sont pas communiquées.
Consultez notre politique relative aux cookies