What is your degree?

I am graduating from the Master of Laws (LLM), specialising in International Law and Private Commercial Law, at the ANU College of Law as an International Partners Scholar. Prior to my graduate studies, I qualified as a lawyer in India, completing my Bachelor of Arts and Laws from the National Law School of India University, Bangalore. 

Why did you choose to study law at ANU?

A year ago, as I was considering various jurisdictions, including the US, UK, and Singapore for my postgraduate studies, one of my mentors drew my attention to Australia. I was particularly drawn to both the country and ANU due to its vast potential in terms of opportunities and the robust support structure for international students. I soon discovered that the ANU College of Law, a research-led institution with a strong emphasis on international law, aligned perfectly with my interests. Additionally, the generous scholarship grant from the College made what would have been an expensive foreign education more financially feasible. In hindsight, ANU turned out to be a pleasant surprise despite not previously being on the cards for me. 

This week, as I graduate and embark on my next adventure, I feel incredibly lucky and grateful for this experience which makes saying goodbye so hard!

How have you felt about moving to / living in Canberra?

Moving from the bustling city of Delhi to the comparatively tranquil Canberra was a huge shift. While it was not as busy as I expected, the city had its own charms. With its serene and calm environment and super approachable people, Canberra won a place in my heart sooner than I thought. While deriving its pride from retaining institutions of national importance, Canberra is also an inclusive and student-friendly city, welcoming people from all parts of the world. 

What have been some of the highlights studying law at ANU?

This past year has been simply amazing. From adapting to minor cultural differences to writing a dissertation on a topic I had no idea about – I have grown a lot. However, a few highlights that made this year even more special for me were my academic achievements. By scoring the highest mark, I received the Dean's Prize for Outstanding Achievement in the Master of Laws. Similarly, I also received the 2023 Academic Award at Burgmann College.

Are there any scholars who have been influential to you throughout your law studies?

The academics at ANU are extremely supportive and approachable. They are your colleagues, mentors and support networks. Out of so many esteemed academics, it is difficult to pinpoint just one, but I cannot resist from expressing my special thanks to my Graduate Research Unit thesis supervisor, Professor Jolyon Ford. He not only played an instrumental role in guiding me through my thesis, but has gone above and beyond in his capacity to help me grapple with the ‘what next’ question after I complete my LLM. 

Have there been any challenging moments? How did you overcome these?

Moving to a new country has its own suite of challenges. From learning directions to adapting to a new culture – it seemed that I had to restart my life from scratch. I still remember getting lost on my first day of law school and anxiously opening Google Maps for every different location of my tutorials. At first, all these small instances took me aback but gradually, the process became rather enjoyable after I realised that I am not the only one in the boat.

With time, I forged friendships with people from across the world and today they continue to guide me (both literally and metaphorically). I will fondly remember and cherish the moments of exam stress, as well as the joys we shared in celebrating each other’s successes.

What is your advice for prospective law students?

Navigating a career in law is admittedly a difficult task and this can become especially nerve-wracking if you are an international student. For me, ANU academics came to the rescue. Small class sizes allowed me to regularly interact with them and ask for their guidance on issues within and beyond the law.

Within this context, my advice to prospective law students is one that I fondly remember reading in Harry Potter – “Help will always be given at Hogwarts to those who ask for it”. Through its administration, academics and students, ANU has a wholesome support network to offer you. However, it is up to you to make the most of your time here. 

What is next for you beyond graduation?

After graduation, I have the opportunity to either begin my law career with a multinational professional services firm in Sydney, or return to India to practice at the bar and work with leading law firms.

As I weigh up these options, I am also keenly interested in exploring international dispute resolution, which is a dynamic field with ever-evolving possibilities. While I cannot foresee how my future will unfold, I believe my education at ANU has made me ready and confident to evaluate my options and embrace whatever comes my way with open arms.