Interview with

Name: Giovanna Patricia Moscoso
LLM 2006
Home: Peru
Law School: University of Lima

1. 
   
   
2. Where is home? What is it famous for?
   Peru, my country of origin, it is famous for the Inca civilization and the excellent cuisine.
   
3. You are an in-house counsel of a major Peruvian mining company for 12 years. What made you decide to pursue an LLM degree?
   The company I work for is a Canadian company with subsidiaries in Peru, Chile, Argentina and other parts of the world. I have worked for this mining company in Peru, Chile & Argentina for the last 12 years. Recently, I have been relocated to the head office in Toronto, Canada. At this point of my career, I wanted to enrich my experience with advanced legal studies in a Common Law System jurisdiction to improve my capacity as an international lawyer.
   
4. Why did you choose Duke for your LLM?
   Because of the excellent LLM Program and the prestige of the University. I received lots of comments from my colleagues and friends about the quality of education provided by Duke.
   
5. What do you like most about Duke so far?
   The personal touch of the faculty members, the high quality of the professors and the organization.
   
6. What is your plan after graduation? How do you think the LLM will help you with your career?
   I will go back to my job in the mining industry (my employer is sponsoring this LLM Program). The LLM Program will allow me to improve my communication skills with my colleagues from the US and Canada. It will also give me background of the common law system. The U.S. legislation is often used as guidance and inspiration in South America (e.g. corporate and environmental law).
   The LLM Program would also allow me to restart teaching activities in the near future. For the long term, it will also provide me precious experience and knowledge to apply in my country of origin.
   
7. You have worked in Argentina, Chile and Peru for the past 10 years, what do you think are the most essential qualities of a successful international lawyer?
   First, make a special effort to understand the culture of the countries, the customs and the formation of different legal systems. Second, be respectful, and be willing to learn and share experiences. Third, work as a team player.
   
8. What advice will you give to international students studying in American law schools?
   Try to understand and learn as much as you can. While you are studying in America, you should be willing to leave your habits and customs as a lawyer of your own country and instead make an effort to understand how American lawyers see and resolve legal challenges.