Class of 2025: LLM Grad Nicolas Cavaille Turned his Exchange Year into a Global Legal Career

Name: Nicolas Cavaillé 
Degree: LLM International Trade & Business Law 
Hometown: Lyon, France 

What inspired you to pursue an LLM degree? 

As a French international student, my journey toward the LLM began during my law studies in France, when I was honored to be the first student in my class selected for an exchange program at the University of Arizona. That year abroad was transformative—I took foundational courses in U.S. law and quickly fell in love with the school, the faculty, the vibrant learning environment, and the welcoming student community. Halfway through the year, I realized that continuing my education with an LLM would allow me to deepen my legal expertise while transitioning professionally from France to the U.S. It felt like a natural next step—and one I’m proud to have taken. 

Why did you choose University of Arizona Law for your LLM? 

I chose Arizona Law because I had already experienced its excellence firsthand. From the moment I arrived as an exchange student, I felt a sense of belonging. The faculty’s support, the school’s strong international focus, and the collaborative atmosphere convinced me that this was the ideal place to further my legal education. Later, I also became actively involved in the life of the school by serving as President of the LLM Student Association, which deepened my connection to the community and made my experience even more meaningful. 

What area of law did you focus on during your studies? 

My LLM focused on International Trade and Business Law. I’m particularly interested in helping French businesses and startups expand into the U.S. market by navigating legal compliance, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border transactions. In addition to practicing law, I also aspire to teach comparative law and contribute to legal scholarship, combining academic and professional perspectives to bridge legal systems. 

How has the LLM program helped you grow professionally and personally? 

This program has been incredibly enriching. Professionally, it has equipped me with the credentials to sit for the bar exam in several U.S. states and prepared me for cross-border legal work. Personally, it has been the perfect fit—challenging, inspiring, and tailored to my international profile. I also had the privilege of leading the LLM Student Association, where I organized events, created opportunities for peer engagement, and served as a bridge between LLM students and the broader law school community. This leadership role helped me grow immensely in confidence, teamwork, and communication. 

As President of the LLM Law Student Association, I worked closely with the administration and fellow students to foster community, organize events, and advocate for the needs of international students. I helped launch professional panels, social gatherings, and cross-cultural initiatives that strengthened the sense of belonging among LLM students. 

What advice would you give to future LLM students? 

Make the most of your time—both academically and culturally. Arizona has so much to offer, and the LLM program provides a unique platform to grow, connect, and explore. Focus on your studies, but also take time to network, attend events, and get involved in student life. Leading the LLM Student Association taught me how valuable it is to be engaged—you learn just as much outside the classroom as you do inside it. 

What are your next steps after graduation? 

Plan A: I hope to continue my academic journey by pursuing an SJD in International Trade and Business Law, with a research focus on digital trade and cross-border regulations. 

Plan B: I plan to gain practical experience by working with a U.S. attorney for a year, then sit for the bar exam in 2025 to begin practicing law. 

As an international student, how has this experience shaped your legal career globally? 

Studying law in the U.S. has strengthened my comparative legal skills, broadened my global legal outlook, and helped me build connections across jurisdictions. My role as LLM Association President also allowed me to engage with students from diverse legal backgrounds, further enriching my understanding of global legal cultures. 

What will you miss most about your time at University of Arizona Law? 

I’ll miss the people the most—the friendships I made in the library, the supportive professors, and the international student community I was lucky to lead and represent. The environment here is one of warmth, mutual support, and intellectual curiosity. It truly became a second home. 

How do you hope to contribute to the legal field with the knowledge you’ve gained? 

I hope to support French businesses expanding into the U.S. by guiding them through complex legal requirements and promoting international partnerships. At the same time, I want to contribute to academia by teaching and conducting research in comparative and international business law. My goal is to bridge legal systems and foster innovation through both practice and education—just as I tried to bridge cultures and students during my time as LLM Association President. 

If you could sum up your LLM experience in one sentence, what would it be? 

Life-changing. University of Arizona Law gave me the vision, tools, and community to build a truly global legal career. I am forever thankful to be a Wildcat, and I will always call the U of A home.