Today’s interview is with Sara Tolić, a foreign law intern working with Foreign Law Specialist Jenny Gesley in the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress.
- Describe your background.
I was born in the beautiful city of Zagreb, Croatia, home to the world’s shortest funicular railway leading up to the historic Upper Town, where a cannon still fires every day to announce noon. My family later moved to Düsseldorf, Germany, where I grew up. At the age of 15, I moved to Vancouver, Canada, and attended a Canadian high school for one year before returning to Germany to earn my high school diploma. After graduating, I spent a year in Australia working and travelling all over the country, enjoying its remarkable natural beauty and the abundance of sunshine, which I would like more of in Germany.
Having lived in different parts of the world from a young age, I developed a strong interest in global affairs and foreign policy. As I approached the specialization phase of my law degree, international law felt like the most natural and fitting choice.
- What is your academic/professional history?
My academic journey began at the University of Munich, where I completed the First State Examination in law (equivalent to a J.D.). In parallel, I earned a certificate in specialized foreign legal language training for U.S. and UK law. Motivated by a strong interest in international and comparative law, I pursued a specialization in international and European Union (EU) law. I also interned at the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, gaining first-hand insight into the practical legal work of an EU member state. In my role as President of the European Law Students’ Association in Munich, I had the opportunity to attend a session of the Committee on the Rights of the Child at the OHCHR in Geneva, Switzerland, further reinforcing my interest in international law and the work of global institutions.
I am currently completing my legal traineeship at the Higher Regional Court of Munich. During this program, I have worked with both civil and criminal law judges, gaining valuable practical experience within the judiciary. My internship with the Global Legal Research Directorate is part of the final stage of this two-year traineeship, which concludes with the Second State Examination, qualifying me as a lawyer in Germany.
- How would you describe your job to other people?
In my work with the Global Legal Research Directorate, I assist Foreign Law Specialist Jenny Gesley in responding to research requests from members of Congress, federal agencies, courts, and the general public pertaining to jurisdictions of German-speaking countries and the European Union. Because the requests can span virtually any area of law, the work is exceptionally varied and intellectually engaging. My responsibilities include conducting comprehensive legal research, drafting detailed reports, and performing comparative legal analysis. In addition, I write articles on new legislation and significant legal developments for the Law Library’s Global Legal Monitor, as well as the In Custodia Legis blog.
- Why did you want to work at the Law Library of Congress?
I was excited by the opportunity to join the Library of Congress, the oldest cultural institution in the United States. I was particularly drawn to the Law Library’s unique mission, which combines rigorous legal research with direct relevance to policymaking, setting it apart from other institutions worldwide. The position offered a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of law and politics while collaborating with experts from a wide range of legal systems. The internship allows me to further refine my research and writing skills while gaining valuable insights into the functioning of the U.S. government. Additionally, it has given me the opportunity to meet and work with inspiring colleagues.
- What is the most interesting fact you have learned about the Law Library of Congress?
Beyond the Law Library’s vast collection, the largest law collection in the world, I was particularly intrigued to learn that whenever the House or Senate is in session, a Library or Law Library research expert must be on site and available, regardless of the hour. This requirement vividly underscores the essential role the Law Library plays in supporting the daily work on Capitol Hill.
Another noteworthy aspect is the extensive underground tunnel system connecting the Library’s buildings and the rest of the Capitol complex. It is not only remarkably convenient but also fascinating, allowing staff to move between buildings while accessing amenities such as cafés or even a gym within the tunnel system beneath the complex of congressional buildings.
- What’s something most of your co-workers do not know about you?
One of my favorite pastimes is watching a wide range of sports, especially live. There is something truly magical about the atmosphere of stadiums and the passion that sports inspire. I am also an avid skier. I started skiing at the age of three and have never missed a skiing season since!
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