Alexandra Kibinian (LLM '22 | Lebanon)
With a bachelor’s degree in law from Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Alexandra Kibinian, a 2022 LL.M. alum from Beirut, Lebanon, set her sights on the United States, aiming to build a successful legal career. Her journey took her to UC Davis, where she enrolled in the LL.M. program and found the support and resources she needed to thrive.
"I like the work and legal ethics in the US, as well as the endless opportunities,” says Alexandra. “The LL.M. program helped me get familiarized with the American legal system and make connections in the legal field." Her decision to join UC Davis was influenced by its reputation and the flexibility of its spring start option. "I wanted to be in a program where the law school offered a spring program, and I heard from my Common Law Class that UC Davis was ranked as one of the top law schools in the US."
At UC Davis, Alexandra found a unique learning environment. "At UC Davis, most instructors try to engage with the class and make sure to make the class more interactive, while back home the lectures were more one-sided." This interactive approach, combined with the ability to take Juris Doctorate subjects, prepared her well for the California Bar Exam.
Building connections was initially challenging, but Alexandra appreciated the support from her instructors. "They really help each student individualize their program depending on their needs and goals." The campus itself left a lasting impression. "The Davis Campus looked more like a cozy, small-town university. It reminded me of the mountains back home."
The career resources at UC Davis played a crucial role in Alexandra's professional journey, "The school hosted a lot of networking events.” During these events "attorneys would introduce their firm and advise us on what kind of candidate they are looking for." These opportunities paved the way for her current role at an Insurance Defense Firm in California, where she defends public entities such as schools and organizations.
Beyond academics and career preparation, Alexandra cherishes the memories she made with fellow LL.M. students. "My favorite part of the program was going out with the other LL.M. students and going on endless road trips with them. I enjoyed learning from them and their cultures."
Alexandra acknowledges that while some aspects of the journey were challenging, the experience and support at UC Davis were instrumental in her success. "UC Davis really did help me a lot in my career, and I enjoyed my time there as an LL.M. student."