Conversation with Mr. Pushkar Keshavmurthy

Welcome to Brief Encounters: Law School & Beyond, a podcast by Project LLM. The series explores journeys of Indian professionals who have pursued legal education abroad. The goal is to bring out stories, experiences, and practical advice to inspire and guide others considering an overseas legal education.

Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Mr. Pushkar Keshavmurthy. He’s a third-generation lawyer who has taken a unique path, focusing on international arbitration and dispute resolution. With his experience studying at Georgetown and his professional work in the U.S. he brings a wealth of knowledge.

Before we dive into the formal questions, I’d like to ask: what is a LinkedIn influencer, and how did you become one?

Well, thanks very much for your kind invitation. I’m delighted to be on this podcast. It’s always a pleasure to share information and learn from each other. Regarding LinkedIn, you’re right; it’s the go-to platform for both young and senior professionals. As a lawyer, I wanted to stand out and connect with people. After working with a few law firms abroad, I realized it would be a good idea to update my profile and showcase my achievements through LinkedIn, much like a CV.

However, I must say, I don’t consider myself a LinkedIn influencer. I aim to share information and create content that helps others, particularly those who are starting fresh in their legal careers. I’m happy to share more about my LinkedIn journey if that’s helpful.

What motivated you to pursue a foreign legal education? Was it always your plan?

It wasn’t always part of the plan. Initially, I aimed to go into litigation after my law degree from Bangalore, focusing on constitutional and environmental law. Bangalore had opportunities in these areas, especially with the National Green Tribunal cases increasing. I thought it would be a great start.

But after attending international moot competitions and conferences, I realized that if I wanted to focus on international arbitration, studying abroad made sense. I consulted with mentors I met in Vienna and London, and they advised me to explore overseas opportunities. By the end of my law school journey, I was certain I would pursue an LL.M. at some point, although the timing was uncertain due to COVID-19. I applied to Georgetown and received an offer but wasn’t sure if it was the right time. Eventually, I went in 2023.

What made you choose Georgetown University specifically?

There were a couple of reasons. During COVID, I participated in a training program facilitated by Georgetown, the International Law Institute (ILI), and the World Bank’s ICSID. The program was an eye-opener for me, and I thought if I were to pursue an LL.M., Georgetown would be the place. I had also applied to the Graduate Institute Geneva (IHEID) and received an offer there, so I was torn between Europe and Washington, DC.

My family being based in Virginia influenced my decision to choose the U.S. Moreover, the opportunity to sit for the New York Bar was an added advantage. Georgetown’s extensive course offerings in Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) and public international law, which I found lacking in other places, also played a major role. The university’s location in DC offered networking opportunities with law firms and institutions like the World Bank, which made it the right fit for me.

You’ve mentioned the importance of moot events in shaping your journey. How did your undergraduate experience at Christ University prepare you for your studies abroad, and did being in a university with a known alumni network influence your decision?

The second part of the question is a bit controversial, so I won’t delve into it directly. However, my time at Christ University was formative. Despite differing opinions on the importance of undergraduate studies, I am grateful for the opportunities I had. As someone interested in international dispute resolution, participating in moots was crucial. I had access to resources and supportive alumni who had taken similar paths, which was invaluable.

Even though international arbitration was considered niche at the time, the few alumni practicing in that field provided guidance and information, helping me make informed decisions. Having a strong alumni network makes a difference, especially when planning to study abroad, as it offers connections and insights that are otherwise harder to come by.

You mentioned earlier that you took a gap between your undergrad and your LL.M., unlike some candidates who pursue it right after undergrad. Was this gap deliberate, and what advice would you give prospective students regarding this decision?

If not for COVID, I was actually supposed to go to Georgetown immediately after my undergrad. In hindsight, I think it would have been a mistake if I had gone right away. I’m glad I reached out to alumni and mentors through LinkedIn and cold emailing, asking for their perspectives on the course offerings and overall experience. Most advised me to gain a couple of years of work experience first—whether two, three, or even more—because one year alone might not be sufficient preparation for an LL.M., which can be quite overwhelming.

There’s more to an LL.M. than just studying; living abroad, job networking, and adjusting to a new environment all play crucial roles. Gaining work experience first helps you build credibility and prepares you for these challenges. However, if someone has a clear reason and knows why they want to pursue an LL.M. immediately, that’s valid too. For me, I initially felt pressured because others around me were applying, but I realized that waiting and gaining relevant experience, especially in a field like international arbitration where experience is valued, was the better approach.

During my two-year gap, I strengthened my profile by taking summer courses in international arbitration and public international law at various institutions, including The Hague. These courses allowed me to deepen my understanding of the subject matter, so when I finally did my LL.M., I could engage more meaningfully in classes and discussions, contributing to the academic environment.

You’ve been accepted into several prestigious programs. What’s the secret to crafting the perfect SOP (Statement of Purpose) that makes an applicant stand out in such a competitive environment?

I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to hire an agent or someone to write your SOP for you. That approach often results in a loss of originality. It’s fine to seek feedback or proofreading assistance, but writing the SOP yourself is crucial. You need to understand why you want to pursue a specific program or school. It’s not just about the courses they offer—explore if they have any centers, organizations, or leadership opportunities you find interesting. Look into the faculty: are there any professors working on projects or writing theses that resonate with your interests?

Relating your background and experiences to the program’s offerings is key. For instance, I had attended a summer school at the University of Geneva, so I could mention specific professors I had interacted with who also taught at the Graduate Institute Geneva. Connecting such experiences to your future goals and showing how the program fits into your short- and long-term career plans is what differentiates a strong SOP from a generic one.

You spoke about how you approached your SOP, correlating it with your experiences and professors you interacted with. Could you elaborate on how US schools evaluate candidates and your role in the admissions process?

US schools generally take a holistic view when evaluating candidates. They don’t just look at your grades; they also consider your extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial spirit. For example, starting a simple venture like a podcast can be a significant aspect of your profile. When I served as an ambassador for Georgetown’s admissions office, I interacted with prospective and admitted international students, offering insights into what schools are looking for. It’s about presenting a well-rounded personality and demonstrating your ability to innovate and contribute.

In an SOP, it’s not about showcasing your CV again but rather telling a story. For me, I related it to my experiences in Karnataka, where environmental issues influenced my interest in international law. I explained how this personal connection led me to seek a course that would provide solutions for such issues. Tying your personal story to your academic and professional goals makes a strong opening for an SOP and helps you stand out.

You mentioned differences between the Indian and US education systems. What specific differences did you experience in terms of teaching methods and the overall academic environment?

In India, many institutions rely heavily on lecture-based teaching. Professors come in, deliver lectures, and students are expected to absorb the content. While this happens in the US as well, American schools often focus more on student participation. Cold-calling is a common practice where professors ask students to present their thoughts on the spot, fostering a more engaging and self-paced learning environment. This approach encourages students to articulate their understanding and express their ideas.

The peer pressure and competition also drive students to present topics in unique ways. For instance, when I was cold-called to discuss the investor-state dispute mechanism in India, it was an opportunity for me to contribute to the class using my knowledge and perspective. This method helps students develop their storytelling abilities, which is crucial for lawyers, whether presenting a case to a judge or negotiating at a table.

Georgetown’s externship program stood out for me. During the spring semester, students can skip two credits to work 20 hours a week at law firms, international organizations, or think tanks like the World Bank. This integration of practical experience with coursework allows students to apply what they learn in real-time. For instance, I worked at King & Spalding in Washington, DC, on arbitration cases, which complemented my classes on investment disputes. Such hands-on opportunities are invaluable and set the US approach apart from the internship models in India, which are typically done during breaks.

That’s an innovative way to blend professional experience with academic learning. How do you manage the workload?

It can be hectic, but it’s manageable if you plan your schedule well. You must balance your classes and externship hours effectively. It’s about learning to handle the pressure without sacrificing your personal life entirely. Being able to manage time and expectations is crucial for succeeding in such a demanding environment.

In one of your LinkedIn posts, you shared about hosting 250 webinars, online lecture series, and conferences during the lockdown. What was the intention behind this initiative, and what takeaway would you offer the younger generation?

The idea was to consolidate information that was scattered all over. I wanted to show that even during lockdown, there were plenty of opportunities—networking events, substantive learning sessions, summer courses, and law firm collaborations. My goal was to make this information accessible in one place so anyone interested could benefit from it.

The biggest takeaway for me was that even if the initiative helps only a few people, it’s worth it. In the process, I learned about events I wasn’t aware of, as people started sharing information with me. It became a two-way street where I helped others, and they, in turn, helped me. I believe in karma—if you help others without expecting anything in return, things eventually come back to you in unexpected ways.

What challenges and opportunities have you encountered while working in international arbitration in the US?

One challenge I noticed is that much of the work depends on what you already know about international arbitration; it’s more about applying your knowledge than learning new laws. However, I learned a lot about witness handling and cross-examinations by attending courses and observing real cases. In the US, cross-examinations are very collaborative, with teams of lawyers, including associates, actively participating in shaping the approach and reframing questions during proceedings.

This approach is quite different from India, where such skills often remain with select senior advocates. Here, associates, even those in their early years, are given opportunities to cross-examine witnesses, which I think is a great way to develop young lawyers. This practice is evident in the hearings conducted by organizations like ICSID, where associates get to take on significant responsibilities. It’s a progressive approach that focuses on training the younger generation rather than limiting their roles to research and drafting.

What about diversity and inclusion in international arbitration? Are diverse candidates given equal opportunities?

Yes, diversity and inclusion are increasingly prioritized. Efforts are being made to ensure that not only younger practitioners but also candidates from diverse racial, gender, and LGBTQ+ backgrounds receive opportunities. While there’s still work to be done, the focus is on giving everyone an equal chance to shine, regardless of their background or where they studied. I see it as a positive step, and I’m hopeful that the trend will continue.

For students aiming to make the most out of their academic and professional experiences, what tips would you offer?

It’s important to come with a plan but also remain open to new opportunities. You may discover interests or meet people who can change the course of your journey. For example, after my LL.M., I realized I could have explored white-collar crime and anti-corruption courses, which are significant in the US. Having an open mind is key.

At the same time, you must be prepared to put in the effort. An LL.M. can be overwhelming with its workload and readings, so time management is crucial. Once you master it, you’ll be able to navigate both the academic and professional demands effectively.

Being a third-generation lawyer, what advice do you have for professionals who are starting their careers without any family background in law? Does it affect your practice or experience in any way?

This is a bit of a controversial question, but my answer is simple. Yes, there is an advantage in coming from a family of lawyers—you see and get inspired by what they do, and it helps. However, many people don’t have that opportunity. It’s important to recognize that those from legal families face pressure to live up to the expectations and reputation established by their predecessors.

For example, my father is a criminal lawyer, and my grandfather was a civil lawyer, but I chose a completely different path with arbitration. It’s not like I inherited a client base or expertise from them. What I took from them was inspiration about what it takes to be in the profession. In arbitration, I’ve had to carve my own path. You need to draft your own journey, and while it’s beneficial to accept help when it’s available, you should also be prepared to seek and build connections yourself if you don’t have them.

At the end of the day, it’s about how you make the best use of any advantage you may have. It might help you start your journey, but you still have to put in the effort to build and sustain your career.

It seems that even if there’s an initial advantage, you still have to work hard to maintain and develop your career. Is that correct?

Absolutely. It depends on how motivated you are. If someone assumes everything is set up for them and doesn’t put in the effort, they’re not fully utilizing the advantage they have. However, if they make the best of it, they can start something new and build upon it, as seen in many law firms with well-established succession plans.

On the other hand, I’ve also seen many successful practitioners who started without any family connections or intrinsic help. It may be harder in the beginning to navigate the process, but it’s definitely possible to carve out your own niche and succeed.

You’ve been a podcast interviewer as a mentee with Young ITA. How does it feel to be on the receiving end of questions instead of asking them?

It’s quite fascinating. As an interviewer, you give a lot of thought to framing questions, picking up on what the guest says, and navigating the conversation. Being on the receiving end makes me reflect on how I could frame questions better in the future. It’s a skill set that’s integral to our profession as lawyers—we need to ask and answer questions effectively.

I found the experience insightful, and I’d love to continue doing podcast interviews. Conversations like this are important as they provide candid insights while also offering helpful guidance for others. I’m happy to be part of this process, and thanks again for having me.

(This transcript is based on the original interview’s audio. It is a refined version and may contain minor errors, omissions, or variations from the verbatim recording. For the guest’s exact inputs and sentiments, please listen to the podcast episode.)

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