“Sign me up—this is exactly what I’m looking for.” 

That was Alexis Rudat’s ’17 (Traill College) first reaction when she heard about the Trent/Swansea Law program, now celebrating its 10th anniversary. 

Drawn to the program’s unique combination of international experience and a close-knit learning environment in both Canada and Wales, Rudat found a pathway that aligned with her goals of becoming a community-oriented lawyer. Six years, two degrees and two countries later, the life and legal career she once envisioned for herself has become reality, supported by professional connections made through the program. 

After becoming a lawyer at just 25 years old, she is now an associate lawyer at Pineiro Law in Peterborough, working alongside Trent alumnus and firm founder Curtis Pineiro ’99 (Champlain College), who was one of her professors in the program and an instrumental mentor throughout her degree. 

“I too wanted to do something a bit different and get a different education than just a formal one,” said Pineiro, also an internationally-trained lawyer. “So I understand a Trent/Swansea graduate, and that’s why I hired one.” 

For Rudat, that mentorship ultimately affirmed what she hoped for and led to a job offer after graduation. 

"The personable mentorship I received in the Trent/Swansea program played a large role in where I am today,” said Rudat. “I have established a strong network of professionals whose guidance and support opened doors and ultimately shaped my aspirations into the career I have always wanted.” 

Watch the video to hear how the connections Alexis built through the Trent/Swansea Law program shaped her path into legal practice.