No strict formula for a corporate lawyer, but having good grades, glowing references, a solid interview, a sincere interest in corporate law work, etc. go a long way.
A B.Comm. is thought to be beneficial, or at least traditional, as is a B.A. In my experience, however, firms are not as interested in where you got your degree or what your partner degree was as they are in what you bring to the bench and whether you would mesh well.
Actually it can be quite helpful. A lot of the big firms are now expanding internationally and knowing more about a region or language can be quite helpful. There is no ideal candidate. They look for various things and mainly whether you will fit into the firm. I say just be yourself and if they like you they will hire you.
If you don't be yourself, chances are you'll hate yourself.
If you be yourself too much, chances are they won't hire you.
However is commerce/law or eco/law absolutely necessary for this? Would that be the best combination?
I am also interested in international studies or perhaps arts.
Thankyou
There is no 'best' combination. Further, ultimately you have to make a decision yourself and accept consequences of that decision.
But by the sound of your posts, you could do a B.A./LL.B. if that is what most interests you. You can choose courses/classes in the Business School with the B.A. IIRC.
Is it demanding and what do you hope to do when you graduate?
From mates that undertook B.Comm.s, regardless of the major, it is a walk in the park in absolute and relative terms.
Caveat: The exception to this is actuarial studies.