career. From a personal standpoint, I was able to draw on some of the connections I had made while working in Germany for U. S. clients and colleagues from the Atlanta office. Those connections gave me a solid foundation as I transitioned to the American legal landscape, ready to tackle the challenges of the unique U. S. M & A market. Soon, I was introduced to a different modus operandi, one that celebrated innovation and encouraged collaboration in forging client relationships. I was fortunate to work with some of the brightest legal minds at Jones Day in Atlanta, who quickly became mentors and friends. One of the personal highlights of my experience was when a partner invited me to celebrate Thanksgiving with her family. Not only was this my first Thanksgiving – coming from Germany where“ Turkey Day” is not celebrated-, but the warm gesture also helped me feel more at home in a new country. Enjoying delicious food, having engaging conversations, and watching football with my hosts made the holiday not only a cultural, but a very personal experience. On the professional side, I learned to navigate a variety of high-stakes transactions by applying my European experience while adapting to U. S. local practices.
Making a Career
About midway through my six-month term, it happened. A partner stopped me in the hall and asked if I could picture making Atlanta my long-term base. The question caught me off guard, as I had been focused on learning U. S. deal terms and navigating my new role. But as we chatted, I realized that this was not just a casual inquiry; it was an invitation to reflect on my future. The question resonated deeply with me, capturing the essence of my journey so far and the possibilities that lay ahead. It sparked a mix of excitement and contemplation. After all, it opened up the possibility of establishing my career in a city that was already beginning to feel like home. After careful consideration and with the support of friends and family, I said Yes. And enrolled in the LL. M.( bar track) program at the Georgia State University College of Law, which is designed for foreign-qualified lawyers seeking to take the bar exam and pursue a legal career in the United States. So, in the summer of 2023, I returned to the life of a student, swapping client files and merger agreements for textbooks and essay assignments.
During the program, I gained a profound understanding of American law and legal theory. Blending theory and practical application, my studies revealed not only the many differences but also multiple similarities between the German and U. S. law. In fact, I rediscovered aspects that I thought were unique quirks of the German legal system, only to find parallels in American law. At the same time, the program gave me the chance to engage with my classmates, lawyers from all over the world, who shared similar aspirations and experiences. Through late-night study sessions, coffee-
COMMUNITY fueled conversations about legal systems and cultural differences, and joint exam preparation, they became my friends. The academic experience, paired with companionship, laid the groundwork for my successful transition into the Georgia legal market.
Graduation was a highlight that I shared with my family who came from Germany to celebrate. It was a moment of pride and joy, especially since there is no fancy ceremony, cap and gown, or stage walk for newly minted lawyers in Germany! The experience felt particularly special, as I was able to mark this significant milestone surrounded by loved ones in a new country. Seeing their support made the day even more memorable and reminded me that I was not the only one who had made sacrifices. As an only child, my journey required my parents to adapt to the idea of me living in a different country, setting aside their own emotions as they supported my ambitions. Their encouragement also inspired me as I began preparing for the Georgia bar exam. It was a rigorous process, but the prospect of practicing law in Atlanta kept me motivated. Passing the bar was a significant milestone for me. It felt like a validation of my decision to transition from Düsseldorf to Atlanta, making all the hard work and sacrifices along the way worthwhile. This accomplishment acknowledged that I was now ready to contribute fully to the legal community in my new hometown. Back at Jones Day, I advise U. S. and international public and private companies, private equity firms, and family offices on complex and strategic transactions. With dual qualifications in Germany and Georgia, I am able to handle crossborder M & A transactions for clients who benefit from my in-depth understanding of both legal frameworks.
Reflecting on my career so far, the overarching theme has been“ connectivity” – the way international experiences and relationships enrich our understanding of law and enhance our adaptability in an increasingly globalized world. At Jones Day, I work with clients who have a global presence, which requires not only a thorough understanding of the complex legal systems involved but also the awareness and appreciation of cultural differences. Like, finding the right tone for an email to ensure that a message is communicated effectively and resonates with the specific audience. For example, most clients in Germany expect a straightforward, to-the-point approach. Clients in the U. S. often enjoy some small talk with their counsel along the way. Whether it is talking football, sharing family memories, or exploring personal interests and hobbies, building a personal connection paves the way to a successful business relationship.
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of my guiding motto: " Embrace the Change." This principle has driven my pursuit of new opportunities across different cultures and legal systems. It has led me from Germany to
the South and encouraged me to adapt and thrive
www. atlantabar. org THE ATLANTA LAWYER 25