First Person Accounts (FPA’s) are meant to provide a first-hand account of Indian law graduates who have pursued a post-graduate course from different schools across the world. In this edition of the FPA, we get talking with Himanshi Gupta who is currently pursuing an LLM in Comparative and International Dispute Resolution from Queen Mary University of London.
Himanshi graduated in law from Amity Law School, Noida (Class of ’17) and worked for a year before embarking on her master’s education.
In this FPA, she discusses how she went about choosing a law school, her time at QMUL, and a lot more.
(Edited excerpts)
When did you decide to pursue a masters? Was this the plan during your undergraduate days, or only something you decided to do after working?
During law school, I developed a taste for the subject Alternative Dispute Resolution. I was fascinated with the procedure and the convenience with which arbitral proceedings were held in general, and I got the privilege to witness the same during a stint internship with my mentor, Dr. Amit George, an independent practitioner in Delhi.
I moved on to work with an AoR in the Supreme Court – that was the time I actually worked on ad hoc construction dispute cases and realized I wanted to to specialize in this field. I would also like to acknowledge my family for understanding my interest and encouraging me to seek further education in this domain. Prior experience in this area worked out in my favour which consecutively helped me to take a decision in a prompt manner.
How did you narrow down on QMUL?
I searched for the best colleges and the professors, and QMUL was amongst the best colleges. I applied only for two courses: one, the specialised LLM at QMUL, and the MIDS course. I consulted few people for the same including my mentor, co-worker at the office (alumni in IPR from QMUL) and other LLM graduates.
There was also the chance of opportunities coming my way being while staying in London; it is the most favoured venue for arbitral proceedings. Moreover, coming from a common law background, it served my purpose more. Lastly, the professors – Prof. Loukas Mistelis and Prof. Stavros Brekoulakis of QMUL.
Any advice for how to go about writing a Statement of Purpose?
My advice to other aspiring LLM students would be first, to stay calm (jokes apart).
Second, to write just above half a page incorporating what specialization you want to pursue your LLM in, why do you want to pursue it from that University/College particularly including the choice of city and how would you be able to achieve the set goals, in crisp and simple language.
Third, good grammar. Students can go online for this – there are different apps and dictionaries available.
How has the LLM experience been so far? Anything that you wished you had known about the LLM experience before you applied?
I had nothing pre-planned before leaving India and I think it worked well for me. No expectations, no disappointments. Just embracing whatever is coming my way whether be it the challenge of pre-reading pages, successful participation in class discussions, over-night parties, exploring London while also learning my chosen subjects. Had I known things, it would not have that surreal while rejoicing the fruits out of seeds sown.
Lastly, any advice for Indian law grads looking to pursue a LLM?
One should be absolutely sure to pursue an LLM and in what field. Secondly, apply for scholarships timely. Being vigilant about everything is the key to success and that is what I have learnt. Lastly, having a minimum work experience of a year before the LLM acts as a catalyst in fetching good clientele, work and friends.
Lastly, having a minimum work experience of a year before the LLM acts as a catalyst in fetching good clientele, work and friends.
End Notes
What: LLM in Comparative and International Dispute Resolution from QMUL
Tuition Fees: GPB 22,150/- (Please refer website for latest fees)
Applications: Open in September (Please refer website for latest deadlines)