About Me
Name
Abdigapar Saparbek
Prior Education
M. Narikbayev KAZGUU University (quqiq bakalavri, 2023)
Before Ann Arbor
I lived in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Before My LLM Year
I worked for three years in EY’s legal department, where I focused on matters relating to corporate law, labor law, mergers and acquisitions, data protection, and renewables.
What Makes Me Different From My Classmates
I am one of the youngest people in my class, but I came to Michigan with meaningful professional experience already behind me. In Kazakhstan, the path to becoming a lawyer is more direct and allows people to begin practicing earlier than in some other countries. Because of that, I was able to develop as a legal professional at a relatively young age.
My Time at Michigan Law
Why I Chose Michigan Law
I chose Michigan Law because its flexible curriculum and emphasis on interdisciplinary learning aligned closely with my professional interests, especially in mergers and acquisitions, corporate, labor, and technology law. The relatively small LLM class was also a major advantage because it created a more personal academic environment and allowed the administration and professors to pay close attention to each student. I also valued being part of the broader University of Michigan community, where I could meet talented and interesting students from many other disciplines.
What Makes Michigan Law Special
The community. More than anything else, it is the sense of belonging, support, and connection with others that makes this place special.
People here are open, supportive, and always willing to help, whether with academics, daily life, or career advice. At the same time, the Law School maintains a very special balance between competition and collaboration: students are motivated and high-achieving, but they still support one another.
My Favorite Classes
One of my favorite classes was Constitutional Law with Professor Daniel Halberstam. Back in Kazakhstan, constitutional law was one of my least favorite subjects, but Professor Halberstam completely changed my perspective. I really appreciated his teaching style, his thoughtful and distinctive views on the issues we discussed, and the way he framed even the most complex constitutional questions.
I also really enjoyed Cross-Border M&A with Professor Alicia Davis. She is an amazing professor and clearly a highly skilled practitioner with deep experience in the field. It was especially valuable that we also had more than six guest speakers from different countries who brought impressive international experience to the class.
What Surprised Me Most About Michigan Law
The level of support from the Law School administration. No matter the issue, I always felt that there was someone willing to help. I was also very grateful for the way professors treated us with respect, openness, and real care for our success.
My Favorite Memory from My LLM Year
There were many memorable moments during my LLM year, but the sports events here were incredible. I am a very sporty person, so I enjoyed every sporting event I attended. The energy, the atmosphere, and the school spirit made those experiences unforgettable.
The Most Difficult Thing About the LLM Year
Most people would probably say exams, but for me, that was not the hardest part. The real challenge was reading 50 to 100 pages in English every day as a non-native speaker. That required a great deal of concentration and endurance, especially over a long period of time.
Favorite Study Spot
The study room in Jeffries Hall with a fireplace, comfortable chairs, and complete silence. It is the perfect place to focus. (But, please do not tell anyone that this room exists!)
Extracurricular Activities
I especially enjoyed taking part in events organized by the Turkic community. These events gave me a feeling of home and helped me stay connected to my cultural background. I also appreciated the Ramadan iftars they organized, and, of course, the food was amazing.
Fun Stuff
When I’m Not Studying
My favorite way to relax is going to the gym, pool, and sauna at the North Campus Recreation Building. After intense studying, that is the best way for me to recharge.
Favorite Food From Home
Beshbarmak. It is not just food; it is a reminder that happiness can be made of meat, dough, and family pressure to eat more.
Favorite Food in the United States
Buffalo wings. Apparently, Americans looked at chicken and thought, “What if we made this emotional?”
Favorite Item at the Kirkland & Ellis Cafe
Coffee. Not because I always want it, but because law school and coffee entered into a legally binding relationship on my behalf.