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 are excited to welcome Mr. Siddharth Chittal. Mr. Chittal is a legal professional with a rich background in international law. Having studied at Amity Law School, Noida, he pursued advanced studies at institutions like Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) and the Hague Academy of International Law, with certifications in areas like international arbitration and international trade law.
If you could give us a brief timeline of your journey, starting from your undergrad to where you are right now.
The brief timeline would be, I think we might have to go a little before my undergrad. I was an athlete, playing taekwondo, and I even represented India in various competitions. During my school years, there was an incident involving arbitration. It was then I learned about arbitration’s confidentiality aspect. The issue with the Federation wasn’t resolved through the courts, but it introduced me to the legal field. That’s when I became interested in arbitration. I also started public speaking, like participating in MUNs, which helped me realize that law was my calling.
While at law school, I participated in five moot court competitions and attended summer schools, such as the Xiamen Academy of International Law in China and The Hague Academy for International Law, right next to the Peace Palace. There weren’t many opportunities in my college for international law, sports law, or private international arbitration, so I explored those topics further. I also completed certificate courses from institutions like Yale to deepen my knowledge.
What was the reason behind specifically choosing Queen Mary University for your studies, and what was your mindset at that time?
Going back to my interest in international law and arbitration, when I was at The Hague and in China, I realized I wanted to delve deeper into these subjects. My undergraduate degree was good, but it didn’t cater to my interest in specialized areas like sports law and private international arbitration.
In 2019, during my ninth semester, I started applying to universities. I received some early acceptances, but there were administrative aspects to sort out, so many were conditional at first. By 2020, when the pandemic hit, I decided to wait until I could have the same immersive experience that I had during my previous international programs.
I eventually chose Queen Mary in 2021 because it offered the specific courses I was looking for. The process was different for me, as I had researched universities and countries extensively. I wasn’t focused solely on the U.S., which many students prefer. I explored various options, including the UK, Australia, France, and Belgium, as I wanted to experience how the law works in different jurisdictions.
Ultimately, it came down to two universities—Edinburgh and Queen Mary. Queen Mary offered the one subject that intrigued me the most, which is why I chose it.
So, you chose the university based on the subjects. Was that extremely important to you?
Yes, subjects were extremely important to me. Subjects influence the quality of professors, and professors shape how you think and develop concepts. At an early stage, the approach and expertise of professors significantly impact your learning experience.
While applying to Queen Mary, were there any challenges you faced during the application process?
Yes, there were several challenges. For example, two courses I was particularly interested in—construction arbitration and sports law—were not available as the professors were on sabbatical. However, I was intrigued by another subject offered, which was art law and dispute resolution. Queen Mary was the only university offering this combination, and I have a deep affinity for history. The subject allowed me to explore history through the lens of legal disputes, which fascinated me.
Could you walk us through the specificities of the application process, like gathering transcripts, recommendations, etc.?
Every university has its own formatting and application process. Some are straightforward, where you just need to send transcripts, a cover letter, and a recommendation letter. Others have complex processes, like a ten-step application format. For Queen Mary and most UK universities, it primarily involved my Statement of Purpose (SOP), transcripts, and recommendation letters. For recent graduates, they usually need two academic recommendations, while professionals need one academic and one professional. I found that Queen Mary made it easier for recommenders by using a question format, understanding that professionals might not always have time to write lengthy recommendations.
Would you recommend pursuing an LL.M. right out of college, or gaining work experience first?
Both paths have their own merits, and it depends on your goals. For example, if someone is keen on tax law, an LL.M. might be necessary to specialize further. Similarly, if you want to practice international law, it might be beneficial to pursue a master’s right away. However, if you have the opportunity, I recommend gaining work experience first. It allows you to better understand the field and assess if an advanced degree is essential for your career progression.
That said, I also understand that not everyone wants to spend time grinding through entry-level jobs, especially when salaries and experiences may not align with expectations. It’s about finding a balance—understanding how an LL.M. fits into your long-term career plans and how it can help you achieve your goals. For fields like sports law, for instance, it makes sense to go straight for a specialized LL.M. in a place like England.
What was your approach to writing Statements of Purpose (SOPs), especially since different countries have varying requirements?
It’s true that different countries have specific preferences. When I applied to Australia and the UK, I had to mention my entire journey, from my athletic career to injuries I faced, in a detailed SOP. However, for the UK, it was simpler. It was essentially a CV run-through with added details about what I learned and why I chose that university, professors, and even a bit about the city. For instance, when applying to Durham, I mentioned my interest in cricket and a specific ground there. They appreciate these anecdotes. Overall, the UK is more academic-focused, preferring a crisp approach that highlights your academic and professional progression.
How did you handle rejections during the application process, and what kept you motivated despite setbacks?
Rejections are part of the process, and it’s important to accept that. It’s perfectly normal to feel disappointed, but you can’t dwell on it. It’s all about moving forward—whether that means reapplying next year or gaining more experience in the meantime. Rejections don’t define your capabilities; they just mean you weren’t the right fit for that particular institution at that time.
Remember, there’s always another opportunity. You might gain more experience, develop new skills, or earn more achievements that will enhance your profile. It’s important to recognize that every university is looking for something different, and sometimes your unique qualities might be valued more elsewhere.
How did you adapt to life in London, both academically and personally? What were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
London is a vibrant city, and it reminds me of the best of both worlds, like a mix of Glasgow and Delhi. However, it can also feel lonely. Academically, I tried to connect with people from different backgrounds, especially since many come from various parts of India and around the world. It’s crucial to learn from others, especially those from civil law backgrounds, as we don’t get that exposure in our common law training.
One piece of advice is to engage actively in tutorials, even if they seem boring. Ask questions, request extra sessions, and make the most of the time. University life is short, and it’s essential to connect with people and make the most of the experience. It’s normal to feel lonely, especially since I had previously traveled to China and The Hague with return tickets. In London, not having a return ticket was a unique and new feeling, but it’s something everyone goes through. It’s all about pushing through.
Did you ever feel a lack of community or disconnect from your culture while living in London?
Yes, I did miss my family, but being an only child, my parents’ attention is always on me. We have regular conversations, which keeps me connected. However, setting up a kitchen and managing things on my own was challenging. When my mother visited for my graduation, she saw my efforts and understood that I had managed well. These experiences allow you to grow and gain respect from your parents.
Culturally, I haven’t felt a disconnect because London has so much diversity. For example, I speak French and am learning Arabic because of my interest in North African music. London offers the opportunity to explore different cultures, whether it’s attending concerts or trying diverse cuisines. But sometimes, you may feel out of place or ostracized. It’s important to set boundaries and understand that you are more than what others perceive. It’s okay to distance yourself from those who don’t accept you.
It sounds like you emphasize the importance of finding a balance between exploring new experiences and setting boundaries. Is that right?
Absolutely. It’s crucial to set boundaries, especially when you’re in a new environment. Sometimes, as Indians, we are taught to interact with everyone, but it’s important to recognize when to step back if someone isn’t reciprocating. It’s about finding your tribe and connecting with those who make you feel comfortable. In London, you will definitely find your tribe, whether it’s friends, companions, or partners.
How did your experience in London shape your career goals? What kind of opportunities did you have to network and gain professional experience?
London really opened my eyes to the various specializations within international law. Early on, I realized there were numerous fields I could explore that I hadn’t even considered before. For example, I was introduced to niche areas through professors who encouraged us to write research papers and engage in practical exercises.
Networking was a significant aspect of my time in London. Considering that law is one of the key industries in the city, there were numerous events and opportunities to interact with professionals. I attended events hosted by law firms and barristers, and one of the highlights was meeting barrister Khawar Qureshi, a professional I deeply admire. He has represented both India and Pakistan in various international cases and is now based out of Qatar. His advocacy skills and professionalism were inspiring, and meeting him was an enriching experience.
The city offers access to institutions like the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Supreme Court, which are not far from each other. These places are accessible to students, unlike in India, where visiting the Supreme Court often requires passes and procedures. In London, it’s much more open, allowing students to immerse themselves in the legal culture and learn directly from these institutions.
That sounds like an incredible opportunity to network and build connections. You seem to have maximized your time there by engaging with key figures in the field.
Absolutely. The city’s legal network is expansive, and if you’re proactive, you can meet professionals who inspire and motivate you. It’s all about taking advantage of the access you have and making meaningful connections that can shape your career.
Could you share a memorable experience or anecdote from your time studying abroad?
There are so many memorable experiences, but one that stands out is related to the pub culture in London. In India, pubs are seen primarily as places for drinks, but in London, the term “pub” comes from “public house”—it’s essentially a gathering spot for the community. During my first semester, I had six hours of classes on Mondays, so it was an intense day. By the evening, it was almost a tradition for us to head to the pub near our university to unwind.
What was interesting is that instead of the usual Friday night outings that you’d expect, we developed this routine of “Monday drinking” as a way to relax after a heavy day of classes. It was a fun and different way to bond with classmates and make friends in an informal setting.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently, or any advice for future candidates?
In hindsight, I don’t think there’s much I would change. It’s all about building your own experiences and learning from them. For those considering an LL.M., my advice is to thoroughly research the application processes for different universities and be prepared to adapt. For instance, I wished I had improved my French proficiency before applying to programs that had French requirements, like the Queen Mary program in Paris with Sorbonne University.
Ultimately, it’s all about being open to experiences and learning as much as you can. Each opportunity, whether academic or social, is a chance to grow.
What are your future plans, and how do you see international education influencing them?
International education offers a broad perspective, but it’s important to know that it’s not essential for everyone. If your goal is to gain a global perspective or understand different legal systems, then studying abroad can be incredibly beneficial. However, if your career path is more local or specific, international education might not be a necessity.
For me, it was about broadening my horizons and gaining experiences that I couldn’t have gotten back home. Looking ahead, I plan to use these experiences to engage in international dispute resolution, focusing on cross-border matters where my background in both common law and civil law systems will be advantageous.
While pursuing an international degree, it’s also important to have fun and make the most of your time. This period won’t come back, so it’s about finding a balance between academics, networking, and enjoying the experience. For example, engaging in local university sports events or joining student groups can provide a sense of community and help you network outside the traditional legal events.
That’s true; the learning experience extends beyond the classroom. It’s about taking advantage of all the opportunities available, both academic and social.
Exactly. Whether it’s through attending events, learning a new language, or even something as simple as participating in a sports league, every experience contributes to your growth. It’s important to be open and adaptable. Networking isn’t always about being in a formal setting; sometimes, it happens on the field or through shared interests.
Do you think this continuous learning mindset is crucial for legal professionals?
Absolutely. If you believe that your learning stops after law school or your LL.M., then you might be in the wrong profession. Law is constantly evolving, and as legal professionals, we need to adapt, learn new skills, and understand different perspectives. Whether it’s new regulations, cross-border disputes, or evolving areas like technology law, you have to be ready to engage with and learn about these changes.
(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.)
