Amicus Partners

First Person Accounts (FPA’s) are meant to provide a first-hand account of law graduates who have pursued, or are pursuing, a post-graduate course (an LLM or otherwise) from different universities across the world.

Naved Bangi, an associate at MRP Advisory, is an LLM graduate from Queen Mary University of London. At QMUL, he pursued the LLM in Comparative and International Dispute Resolution. In this FPA, the KC Law College graduate discusses the LLM experience itself, building a career in international arbitration and a whole lot more. 

An LLM in dispute resolution is an interesting choice – at what point in your career did you start looking at an LLM? What were some of your expectations from such a specialised degree? 

Indeed, pursuing an LLM in dispute resolution was a fascinating choice, and the idea first struck me during my final year of LLB studies. It was around this time that I was introduced to the Indian Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. This exposure sparked a deep curiosity in the field of arbitration, prompting me to delve further into the subject.

My exploration revealed the vast opportunities in this avenue, and I became convinced that arbitration was the career path I wanted to pursue. An LLM specializing in dispute resolution seemed like the ideal way to refine my understanding and enhance my future prospects in this dynamic field.

As for my expectations from such a specialized degree, two key objectives stood out.

Firstly, I aimed to gain in-depth knowledge of international arbitration, enabling me to approach complex disputes with confidence and expertise. Secondly, I sought to build a global network of like-minded professionals. The opportunity to connect with individuals from diverse jurisdictions, all sharing a common interest in arbitration, was invaluable in shaping my vision for a truly international career in this field.

What were some of the schools you shortlisted along the way and why narrow down on QMUL? In hindsight, what was the most challenging bit about the entire LLM application process?

When it came to shortlisting schools for my LLM, I focused on two renowned institutions. The first was Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), which stood out for its strong reputation, particularly for the LLM in Comparative and International Dispute Resolution. Its diverse range of modules provided the flexibility to tailor my learning to my specific interests, making it an ideal choice.

The second school I shortlisted was MIDS Geneva, known for its equally strong reputation in the legal market. Its alumni network was exceptionally commendable, and the program’s emphasis on dispute resolution further aligned with my career aspirations.

In hindsight, the most challenging aspect of the entire LLM application process was managing the intricate requirements of each application while ensuring that my personal statement and supporting documents were tailored to highlight my commitment to arbitration and dispute resolution.

Striking a balance between showcasing my individuality and meeting the expectations of such prestigious institutions required careful thought and consistent effort.

This might not be a fair comparison, but what were some of the bigger differences in the learning experience between KC Law and QMUL? What did one do better over the other? 

I completely agree that it wouldn’t be a fair comparison, as both KC Law College and QMUL excelled in different aspects and catered to distinct phases of my academic journey.

KC Law College played a pivotal role in building my foundational understanding of legal principles. The professors were not only approachable but also deeply committed to their students’ success. Their dedication ensured that I developed a strong footing in the fundamentals of law, which became invaluable as I advanced in my career.

On the other hand, QMUL provided an entirely different learning experience. It offered an environment enriched with resources and opportunities tailored to my specialization in arbitration. The tools, academic rigor, and exposure at QMUL allowed me to delve deeply into the field of dispute resolution, emerging as a more informed and competent professional in the domain.

In summary, neither institution was better than the other; they each fulfilled distinct expectations. KC Law College laid the groundwork, while QMUL helped me refine and specialize my knowledge in line with my career aspirations.

Given the high levels of interest in arbitration as a career goal, any advice you have for law students who are keen to follow a similar path as yours? 

Arbitration is an increasingly popular and rewarding field, and for law students aspiring to pursue this path, I would offer the following advice:

• Build a Strong Foundation: Start by understanding the fundamentals of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution. Courses on contract law, procedural law, and arbitration are essential during your LLB or equivalent degree.
• Stay Informed: Arbitration is a dynamic field with constant developments. Stay updated on changes in arbitration laws, landmark decisions, and trends in international arbitration. Subscribing to arbitration journals or attending webinars can be very helpful.
• Gain Practical Exposure: Internships or work experience at law firms specializing in arbitration, arbitral institutions, or corporate legal departments can provide valuable insights into how arbitration operates in practice.
• Network Actively: Networking is crucial in arbitration. Attend arbitration conferences, participate in moot court competitions, and connect with professionals in the field. Platforms like LinkedIn and events hosted by arbitral institutions can be great resources.
• Consider Specialization: If arbitration is your long-term goal, pursuing an LLM in arbitration or dispute resolution can provide the expertise and global exposure needed to excel. Choose a program with strong faculty, diverse modules, and a solid reputation in the legal market.
• Develop Key Skills: Arbitration requires strong analytical, research, and advocacy skills. Focus on honing these through moot courts, research papers, or debate competitions. Good drafting skills are equally important for preparing pleadings and procedural documents.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Arbitration is a competitive field, and establishing a career in it takes time. Stay persistent, seize every opportunity to learn, and be open to starting with related areas like litigation or corporate law if necessary.

Ultimately, a combination of academic excellence, practical experience, and strategic networking will set you on the path to a successful career in arbitration.

Looking back, how has the QMUL LLM helped in your professional growth? What would you count as some of the most rewarding aspects of the LLM?

Looking back, my LLM at QMUL has been instrumental in shaping my professional growth. The program not only deepened my expertise in arbitration and dispute resolution but also equipped me with the skills and confidence to navigate complex legal challenges in a global context.

One of the most significant contributions of the LLM was the academic rigor and exposure to diverse perspectives. The specialized modules allowed me to explore arbitration in-depth, while the opportunity to engage with renowned faculty and industry professionals broadened my understanding of international dispute resolution. This foundation has been invaluable in my current work, enabling me to approach arbitration cases with precision and a well-rounded perspective.

The most rewarding aspects of the LLM were the global network I built and the practical insights I gained. Interacting with peers from different jurisdictions provided a unique exchange of ideas and a glimpse into the arbitration practices across various legal systems.

Overall, the QMUL LLM has been a transformative experience, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application. It has not only strengthened my legal expertise but also opened doors to opportunities that have been pivotal in advancing my career in arbitration.

Lastly, any advice for the Indian law graduate who is considering a master’s abroad? 

For Indian law graduates considering a master’s degree abroad, my advice would be to approach this journey with careful planning and a clear vision of your career goals.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Define Your Goals: Before applying, take time to understand why you want to pursue a master’s degree. Whether it’s to specialize in a specific field, gain international exposure, or enhance career prospects, having a clear objective will help you choose the right program and institution.
• Research Thoroughly: Look into universities offering programs aligned with your interests. Focus on factors like faculty expertise, course structure, alumni network, and the institution’s reputation in your chosen field. Rankings are helpful but shouldn’t be your sole deciding factor.
• Plan Your Finances: Studying abroad is a significant investment. Explore scholarships, financial aid, and funding opportunities available for international students. Proper financial planning can make the experience less stressful and more rewarding.
• Build a Strong Application: Tailor your personal statement to reflect your passion, academic achievements, and career aspirations. Highlight internships, moot courts, research papers, or any experience relevant to your chosen field. Make sure your letters of recommendation are from individuals who know your strengths well.
• Embrace the Learning Curve: Studying abroad comes with challenges, including adapting to a new academic system and cultural environment. Be open to these experiences—they are as valuable as the degree itself.
• Leverage Networking Opportunities: Engage with faculty, peers, and professionals during your program. Building a global network can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and collaborations in the future.
• Stay Focused on Your Career Path: While a master’s degree provides valuable knowledge, its true worth lies in how you apply it. Be proactive in seeking internships, publishing research, and participating in events that align with your career goals.
• Stay Connected to India: If you plan to return to India, keep track of legal developments and build connections in the Indian legal market. Your international degree can set you apart, but understanding local practices will ensure a smooth transition back.

Ultimately, pursuing a master’s degree abroad is a life-changing experience that demands dedication and perseverance. With the right approach, it can be a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in law.