"The global perspective I gained during my specialization has been particularly valuable in today’s interconnected world...This global outlook has expanded my career opportunities, made me more competitive in the job market and has provided me with greater career mobility."
Name: Akanksha ApteYear of graduation: 2020Name of programme: Technology, Media and Telecommunications Law LLMCountry: India Current position and Company name: Data Privacy Consultant, Ernst and Young (EY) LLP
I was inclined towards pursuing my masters in Technology law, but didn’t want to restrict my learning only to Technology Law. The combination of study of Technology, Media and Telecommunication law which QMUL offers, caught my eye. I was also attracted to the wide range of modules CCLS offers, so much so that one can customize the course as per his/her interests and professional ambitions; and its flexibility in allowing students to choose modules outside their specialism (subject auditing). Additionally, QMUL is one of the top 10 Universities in the world offering Technology Law LLM. It is known for its diverse research, outstanding faculty, student support and exceptional professional growth opportunities. Hence, after researching on different Universities and their specializations, Queen Mary came forth as an indisputable choice, which I thought would best suit my interests and requirements.
The teaching and learning are very diverse, with every module having a different method of learning and assessment, for example – group discussions, presentations, seminars, guest lectures, etc. The faculty members at CCLS demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication, fostering an intellectually stimulating environment. Their approach to teaching combined theoretical insights with practical applications, and their relevance to the current times. Beyond academic lectures, CCLS emphasized the development of practical legal skills essential for success in the legal profession. From legal writing workshops (CTWL) to advocacy training and moot court competitions, CCLS provided opportunities to hone our advocacy, negotiation, and drafting skills. Professors were approachable and invested in the success of their students, offering valuable insights, constructive feedback, and tailored support. The unwavering commitment to academic excellence, personalized mentorship, practical skills development, and global perspective has shaped me into a well-rounded legal professional prepared to tackle the challenges of the global legal landscape.
There are many highlights of the programme, which aided me in my career progression. My top 2 would be:1) PG Law Mentoring Programme - a unique opportunity for students to be mentored by industry professionals. I developed a very good relation with my mentor, who showed interest in the growth of my abilities and talents and helped me make positive choices, grow in confidence and overcome challenges both in academics as well as professional life. One-to-one mentoring is the best form of learning and I highly recommend the prospective students to opt for this Programme.2) Careers & Enterprise Department - offers personalized career counseling sessions where students can receive tailored advice on career planning, job searching, and professional development. Regular workshops and seminars are organized on various topics such as resume writing, interview techniques, networking skills, and job search strategies. These sessions equip students with the essential skills needed to succeed in the competitive job market. QMUL hosts numerous career fairs and networking events, connecting students with potential employers across various industries. These events provide a platform for students to learn about different career opportunities, make valuable contacts, and even secure internships and job offers. These services are not limited for the duration of our LLM studies, but is extended 3 years post the LLM.
London was home and it had so much to offer – social life, beautiful parks, quaint cafes, fine dines, bustling markets, cultural diversity, historical landmarks, touristy things, academic resources etc. It offered new experiences and learnings which made my time unforgettable and profoundly impactful. London's status as a rich legal hub provided unparalleled opportunities for networking, internships, and exposure to leading law firms, multinational corporations, and international organizations. The prospect of gaining practical insights and forging connections within such a dynamic and influential legal environment was incredibly appealing. It was an experience that not only enhanced my legal education but also contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth.
Learning alongside classmates from other legal jurisdictions at CCLS significantly enriched my educational experience. The diverse perspectives, collaborative learning environment, and lifelong connections have been instrumental in my journey. We still nurture the friendships and professional relationships formed during our LLM days and we are in touch through various social media platforms and professional networks, sharing updates on our careers and personal lives. These connections have not only provided a supportive community but also a global network of legal professionals who offer advice, share job opportunities, and collaborate on projects. This network has opened doors to numerous professional opportunities and international experiences that would have been difficult to access otherwise.
Gaining a deeper understanding of my specialization (TMT) at CCLS, has profoundly impacted my career in numerous positive ways. This specialization has allowed me to develop a strong foundation in key areas such as technology law, data protection, privacy, risk management, AML, regulatory compliance. This expertise is highly valued by employers and clients, making me a sought-after professional in the legal market. The global perspective I gained during my specialization has been particularly valuable in today’s interconnected world. Understanding international perspectives and cross-border legal issues has enabled me to work on multinational transactions and disputes. This global outlook has expanded my career opportunities, made me more competitive in the job market and has provided me with greater career mobility.
LLM year is not just about earning a degree, it is about fostering your professional/career development. It is about networking. Develop and nurture good relations with your professors, mentors and batchmates, because they help in developing effective connections, as also interpersonal skills. By embracing interdisciplinary learning, engaging actively in class, building strong relationships, and gaining practical experience, you can maximize your time at CCLS and lay a strong foundation for a successful legal career. Stay curious, stay informed, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.
Participating in the Oxford Price Media Moot Court Competition in Paris was an unparalleled experience for me. I led the team of six participants and we argued a case that dealt with privacy, human rights and media law. This international engagement exposed me to diverse perspectives from students, judges, and legal experts worldwide. The entire preparation journey of conducting extensive research, preparing for the oral rounds, drafting memorials, mock trials, travelling to Paris for the moot, was truly exciting and enriching. Participating in the Price Media Moot Court Competition was not just a professional achievement but also a significant personal milestone and I am grateful for the opportunity to represent CCLS on an international platform. This opportunity exemplifies CCLS’ commitment to fostering practical legal skills, global engagement, and professional excellence.