An Interview with TLU Cum Laude Graduate Sofiia Loienko
We are delighted to share the inspiring journey of Sofiia Loienko, a recent alumna of Tallinn University (TLU) Faculty of Law. Sofiia graduated cum laude from her Bachelor's program, successfully defending her thesis titled: "Legal Mechanisms For Protecting Women's Rights In Response To Violations Arising From the Ongoing Russia-Ukraine War."
Her academic brilliance is now taking her to the next grand chapter: a Master of Law at the prestigious University of Cambridge, King’s College, thanks to the Quantedge Cambridge Refugee Masters Scholarship! Furthermore, she was invited to the Estonian Presidential Reception on June 26, 2025, in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements.
We had an interview with Sofiia to discuss her journey, her TLU experience, and her ambitious plans for the future.
Where are you from and what did you study at Tallinn University?
I’m originally from Kyiv, Ukraine, and I studied a Bachelor’s in International and European Law at Tallinn University.
What made you choose Tallinn University for your studies?
I initially decided to apply to Tallinn University because I wanted to pursue a career as a lawyer and study law in English. Tallinn University’s program, with its focus on European and international law, seemed like a perfect fit, which is why I applied there.
How would you describe your academic experience at TLU?
My academic experience at TLU was amazing. I really enjoyed the courses, their structure, and their substance. I particularly liked the practical aspects of the classes - having to study a lot at home and then coming to class to critically analyze legal cases and apply my knowledge in practice.
Can you share some of the extracurricular activities or initiatives you were involved in?
My time at TLU was full of extracurricular activities. From my first year, I participated in international law moot court competitions, which are trial simulations where law students from around the world compete in legal drafting and oral advocacy.
I participated in five international moot court competitions (Telders, Jessup, Viss, FDI Moot Court) and was recognized as 18th Best Advocate in one of them. I also served as an assistant coach for the ICC Moot Court competition team representing Tallinn University this year. Additionally, I was the author of the legal problem and co-organizer of the first internal mooting competition at TLU “Speed Moot”.
What was the most memorable moment or experience during your time at TLU?
The most memorable experience was going on an Erasmus+ exchange program to the University of Lisbon. It was an enriching opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, study law from a different perspective, make long-lasting connections, and gain a deeper understanding of myself.
You also had the honour of attending the President’s reception. Could you share how that experience felt and what it meant to you?
This summer, I graduated cum laude from the Faculty of Law at Tallinn University and was invited to the Estonian Presidential Reception. It was a very special moment for me because it felt like all the late nights and hard work finally paid off. It was also a wonderful tribute to all the people who supported me and to the amazing professors. It was an honor to represent the Faculty of Law at such a prestigious event.
Where is your academic journey taking you next?
After graduating from Tallinn University, I will be pursuing a Master of Law at King’s College, University of Cambridge.
You received a full scholarship to pursue your Master’s studies at Cambridge. How did you achieve this, and what advice would you give to others aiming for similar opportunities?
I received a scholarship from the Quantedge-Cambridge Refugee Masters Scholarship. My advice for anyone applying to Cambridge or for funding opportunities would be to focus on three key points:
Academic Excellence: Demonstrate it through transcripts, achievements, and aspirations.
Genuine Passion: Show sincere passion for your field of study and align it with your future goals. Explain how the university or scholarship will help you achieve them.
Extracurricular Activity: Highlight your academic excellence and passion through active participation in relevant activities. Combining these three elements is essentially a recipe for success.
What advice would you give to current or future law students at Tallinn University?
I would say: go for it. Take advantage of everything the university offers, be bold, confident, and express your ideas. Participate in moot court competitions, organize new ones, and continue the tradition of the Speed Moot Court Competition. Stay open-minded, believe in yourself, and make the most of all the resources the university provides.