Students at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law stepped beyond the classroom and into the heart of international legal systems through immersive study abroad programs this summer. Experiences in Scotland, Iceland and England offered students the opportunity to deepen their legal knowledge, engage with diverse cultures and build lasting professional and personal connections.

Edinburgh, Scotland: June 2-July 2

In its second year, Cumberland’s summer program at the University of Edinburgh emphasized persuasive legal advocacy. In addition to engaging classes such as The Scottish Legal System and The Art of Persuasion, students experienced private events at Scottish Parliament and the Sheriff’s Court of Edinburgh, offering a rare glimpse into Scotland’s legal heritage.
 
“My experience studying abroad in Scotland can be characterized as a time of growth. I discovered interesting facets of the Scottish legal system, learned how to approach alternative dispute resolutions, practiced different techniques during simulated direct examinations, and so much more. This experience pushed me to refine my skills, allowed me to build invaluable relationships, and helped shaped not just my education but my perspective on the world.” — Reagan Keener, second-year law student

Reykjavik, Iceland: June 22-July 9

This marked the first year for the summer program in Reykjavik, in which students studied the impact of environmental law on global ecosystems, offering a unique lens into legal frameworks that address climate change and sustainability. Hosted at the University of Iceland, Cumberland students experienced a private meeting with the president of the Supreme Court of Iceland, tours of a geothermal energy plant and the Hvammvick Geothermal Pools, and a private meeting with the director general of the Department of Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs of Iceland.
 
“I had a great study abroad experience in Iceland. Of all my courses, I enjoyed learning about the Icelandic legal system most of all, which is very different than U.S. law. This course provided me with a unique opportunity to confront these differences and reassess my understanding of the American legal system.” — Max Hudgins, third-year law student

Cambridge, England: June 29-Aug. 2

Held at Sidney Sussex College at the historic University of Cambridge, the long-standing program—staged in partnership with Campbell University Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law and Chapman University Fowler School of Law—provided students a broad overview of English and European Union law. Students explored the rich academic traditions of Cambridge and participated in cultural excursions that brought centuries of legal history to life.
 
“Studying abroad at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge was one of my most rewarding and memorable experiences. I traveled with close friends, made new connections and was able to explore five other countries on the weekends. Our courses were dynamic and thought-provoking. The knowledge I gained has served me academically and professionally. Every employer I’ve interviewed with this fall has asked me about the trip, and it has become a meaningful point of connection.” — Lyndsey Stott, second-year law student
 
Students from both the Cambridge and Edinburgh programs also joined for a special visit to Strasbourg, France, where they toured the Parliament of the European Union, reinforcing the global scope of their legal education.

Global Learning, Lifelong Impact

Cumberland’s trio of international programs directly reflect Samford University’s Fidelitas strategic plan, a commitment to global influence. Whether studying advocacy in Scotland, international law in Cambridge, or environmental law in Iceland, law students gained invaluable insights that will shape their careers and perspectives.
 
“These programs are specifically designed to expose students to different legal systems and approaches and, equally important, other cultures,” said Jill Evans, associate dean of academic programs at Cumberland School of Law. “Students return home with a broadened scope of legal understanding, better prepared to enter practice in a global environment.”