Alumni Spotlight: Ana Pérez Aranda, LL.M. ’23, Senior International Tax PMO at EY
Ana Pérez Aranda earned a bachelor of laws (LL.B.) degree at CUNEF Universidad and a master of laws (LL.M.) degree at University of California, Irvine School of Law. She now is a Senior International Tax PMO at EY in Madrid. Below, she reflects on her LL.M. year and how the experience shaped her professional development and legal career.
Q. What first drew you to the LL.M. program at UC Irvine Law?
UC Irvine Law has a strong academic reputation, innovative approach to legal education, and emphasis on practical, globally relevant legal skills. I was particularly attracted by the opportunity to learn from distinguished faculty members while studying in a diverse and collaborative environment. Additionally, UC Irvine Law’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and its location in a dynamic economic and legal hub made it an ideal place to broaden my legal knowledge, gain international perspectives, and further develop my professional career.
Q. Reflecting on your LL.M. year at UC Irvine Law, what stands out?
The opportunity to deeply understand U.S. law in an academic environment that is both rigorous and supportive. One of the most valuable aspects for me was the possibility of using the LL.M. as a strong foundation to later prepare for the bar exam and pursue a legal career in the United States. Another benefit was the ability to compare U.S. legal principles with European and Spanish law. This comparative perspective significantly enriched my understanding of both systems and helped me develop a more global legal mindset, which I consider extremely valuable for my professional development.
Q. How was your experience in the Irvine community, on campus and in the surrounding area?The location in Irvine, California was definitely an important factor in my decision to pursue my degree at UC Irvine Law. I was drawn to California as a whole, as I find it an incredible place both academically and culturally, with a dynamic environment and great professional opportunities. My experience in the Irvine community, on campus, and in the surrounding area was extremely positive. The university environment was very welcoming and supportive, and I truly enjoyed being part of such a diverse and international community. The people I met, both within the law school and in Irvine, played a key role in making my year an unforgettable experience.
Q. How did your LL.M. degree prepare you for the next steps in your career?The LL.M. program had a significant impact on my career prospects and professional path. It opened up many opportunities for my development and gave me the confidence and credentials to pursue an international legal career. Thanks to this experience, I am now working at a globally recognized Big Four firm, focusing on international taxation, which is exactly the field I am passionate about. The degree has been valuable in enhancing my legal practice, not only because of the technical legal knowledge I gained in U.S. law, but also due to the analytical skills, comparative perspective, and international mindset developed during the program. All of this has been directly applicable to my current work in cross-border tax matters and has strengthened my ability to operate in an international professional environment.
The academic environment at UC Irvine Law is outstanding, and the experience of attending classes there is something truly valuable. Beyond the academic aspect, you gain a great deal from the program in terms of professional development, international exposure, and career opportunities.
It is an experience that stays with you long after completion, both in terms of knowledge and personal growth.