Supporting Stefan Karaleev: From Sofia to CEU, Vienna

Proudly introducing our first Bulgarian Futures scholar - Stefan Karaleev, a distinguished law student from Sofia! In 2024, he embarks on an academic journey at Central European University in Vienna, pursuing an LL.M. in Global Business Law and Regulation.

Academic background and interests

Stefan Karaleev, born and raised in Sofia, is currently pursuing an LL.M. in Global Business Law and Regulation at the Central European University in Vienna. His academic journey began at Sofia University ‘St. Kliment Ohridski’, where he earned a Master of Laws. During his studies, he developed a keen interest in European Union law, banking law, corporate and commercial law, capital markets, and competition law. He also actively participated in several legal research groups organized by the European Law Student’s Association (ELSA).

Professional experience

Early in his career, Stefan sought to understand the public and NGO sectors better. He completed internships in the International and European Union Law Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and collaborated with various NGOs focused on civic education and rule of law research, such as the Bulgarian Institute for Legal Initiatives (BILI). In 2024, he embraced a different new career path and joined the Legal Department of Eurobank Bulgaria (Postbank).

Extracurricular activities

Throughout his university years, Stefan engaged in the ‘Academy for Civil Education’ initiative, organizing discussions with high school students on democracy, rule of law, and legal literacy. He was also a member of the Scholar’s Club of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung from 2021 to 2023. In 2024, he became part of ‘Mentor the Young,’ a mentorship program he highly recommends to all young people in Bulgaria.

Journey to Central European University

Stefan's interest in the legal aspects of business operations grew while working at the bank, prompting him to seek out reputable business law programs abroad. He was drawn to Central European University’s unique blend of American and European teaching traditions and its international character. Discovering their Global Business Law and Regulation LL.M. program confirmed that CEU was the right choice for him.

When Stefan came across this scholarship opportunity, he prepared the necessary documentation and applied. He was deeply impressed by the Aleksander Foundation’s mission and work, and he is incredibly grateful that everything aligned perfectly.

First weeks in Vienna and future plans

Having read the mission statements of various universities across Europe, Stefan confidently says that Central European University truly lives up to its promises. The professors have exceeded his expectations with their approachability and openness to discussion.

After completing his studies, Stefan plans to apply the knowledge and skills he has acquired in the professional world. He aims to secure a legal role in the banking, investment, or insurance sectors, focusing on the corporate governance of legal entities operating across multiple jurisdictions.