About Me
Name
Felix Ruyter
Prior Education
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (Erste Juristische Prufüng, 2025).
Before Ann Arbor
I grew up in Berlin and went to law school in beautiful Freiburg, at the edge of the Black Forest.
Before My LLM Year
I graduated from law school in Freiburg and worked as a graduate research assistant at an international Big Law firm in Berlin, focusing primarily on regulatory and corporate law.
My Time at Michigan Law
Why I Chose Michigan Law
I chose Michigan Law for the small size of its LLM program; the real integration with JD students and sense of community; the quality and breadth of the courses; its great reputation; its location in Ann Arbor, a classic, livable American college town; its beautiful campus located centrally in the city and the opportunity to live on campus; and last but not least, the the chunky, friendly squirrels you encounter everywhere.
My Favorite Class
It’s hard to choose because I’ve had so many kind, brilliant professors. However, the most special experience was a mini-seminar with only nine other students. We met on the porch of the professor’s tiny house outside Ann Arbor in the middle of a field.
What Surprised Me Most About Michigan Law
The high level of interaction in class, how accessible and helpful the professors are, and the sheer volume of events happening at the Law School every single day.
What the “Michigan Difference” Means to Me
Walking across campus or heading to an event and constantly running into someone who is genuinely happy to see you and ready to chat.
My Favorite Memory from My LLM Year
My trips during the breaks: backpacking in Shenandoah National Park with the Michigan Backpacking Club, road tripping down the East Coast to the Florida Keys to escape the winter cold with fellow LLMs, and exploring the stunning national parks in Arizona and Utah.
The Most Difficult Thing About the LLM Year
Staying on top of the heavy reading load and assignments while trying to take full advantage of all the academic and social experiences available.
Favorite Study Spot
The majestic Reading Room, under a tree in the Law Quad, or a hidden corner in the Underground Library (“the subs”).
The Best Things About Ann Arbor
Its walkability; the vibrant energy of a town full of students; and the variety of great restaurants, cafes, and shops.
If I Could Time Travel, I Would Give Myself This Advice at the Start of My LLM Year
Don’t worry; you’ll settle in much faster than you think.
Buy the football season tickets! Even if you aren’t a huge football fan, the games are about the whole experience, and you can always resell your tickets if you can’t make it.
Most importantly, time flies, so soak everything in and say yes to every opportunity that comes your way.
Extracurricular Activities
I am the LLM representative for the Environmental Law Society, where I organized a lunch talk on “The New Geopolitics of Environmental Law.” I’m also a member of several other student organizations and the Michigan Backpacking Club.
Fun Stuff
When I’m Not Studying
You can find me taking a walk in the Arb, working out at one of the well-equipped University gyms, meeting friends for coffee, attending a sporting event, or relaxing in a recliner at one of Ann Arbor’s cinemas.
Favorite Book
My favorite book I’ve read during my time in the US is A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway, which I bought at the bookshop in his wonderful home in Key West.
Favorite Movie
The best movies I’ve seen recently at the local theaters are Bugonia, Project Hail Mary, and The Drama.
Favorite TV Show
Outlander.
Favorite Beverage
Spezi—specifically Paulaner Spezi, or Sunset as they call it in the US. I was so excited to find out they entered the American market a few years ago.
Favorite Food From Home
A proper Berlin döner kebab or wiener schnitzel.