As I sit in my apartment in Charlotte (North Carolina, USA), reflecting on the past few months, I can hardly believe how quickly time has flown by. This city, a growing economic hub, has been my home during my Wahlstation in a law firm specializing in business law and transatlantic legal matters. Coming here as a German Rechtsreferendar was exciting and demanding; looking back, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.

Being immersed in the common law system was one of the most fascinating aspects. Transitioning from Germany’s civil law system to a case-law-driven legal environment was a challenge, but one that significantly sharpened my thinking and adaptability. Working on American legal issues gave me firsthand insight into how legal matters in the USA are handled and processed.

Of course, the transition came with its difficulties. Charlotte is expensive, and finding an affordable and safe place to live requires careful planning. The visa process alone was an administrative hurdle that took weeks to finalize. However, the effort was worth it. The firm welcomed me warmly, and I quickly found my footing in a team of attorneys eager to share their knowledge and include me in their projects.

Beyond the professional growth, the change of scenery was refreshing. After spending the past 1.5 years buried in books and exams, stepping out of Germany and experiencing life in a dynamic U.S. city felt liberating. Exploring new places, meeting international people, and understanding different work cultures broadened my horizons in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

As my time here comes to an end, I realize how valuable this experience has been. Working abroad as a German lawyer is no easy feat, and this Wahlstation was a crucial step toward gaining international exposure. If I ever decide to work outside of Germany, these months in Charlotte will be a strong foundation.

Despite the initial challenges, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Before stepping into full-time employment, having the chance to explore, learn, and experience a new legal system was an invaluable experience that I highly recommend to any open-minded lawyer.