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 our guest is Mr. Vishal Aggarwal, a distinguished Solicitor-Advocate and triple-qualified lawyer with professional qualifications in England, India, and Ireland. Mr. Aggarwal currently holds Higher Rights of Audience to appear before the Senior Courts in England and Wales and the Courts of AIFC in Kazakhstan. He is also an Accredited Tribunal Secretary with the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) and the Australian Centre for International Commercial Arbitration (ACICA).
With a robust career advising both private and state parties in domestic and international arbitration proceedings, Mr. Aggarwal has handled complex cross-border disputes and high-stakes litigations across various jurisdictions. He has also served as Tribunal Secretary in multi-million-dollar disputes in Singapore, Malaysia, Africa, and the UAE.
What inspired your journey into law? Was there a specific reason why you chose to pursue it as a career?
To be honest, I never anticipated a career in law. My first degree was in Economics, and I was entirely focused on pursuing a career in that field. After completing my bachelor’s in Economics, I was keen on finance, but things didn’t work out as planned in India. Coincidentally, I decided to give law a try for six months, thinking it was worth exploring. If it didn’t work out, I could always pursue a master’s in Economics. However, as I started my law studies, I became increasingly interested.
I found myself drawn to reading legal texts, commentaries, and jurisprudence, which initially felt overwhelming but soon became a passion. I realized that it wasn’t just the academic side of law that fascinated me; it was also the adversarial aspect of the field. This combination of intellectual and practical challenges kept me engaged, and I decided to continue my legal journey.
During your time at Amity Law School, you participated in various moot court competitions, including client counseling, trial advocacy, and mediation. What do you see as the advantages of participating in such competitions during undergraduate studies?
Participating in moot court competitions was one of the best highlights of my law school experience. It built my confidence in public speaking and presenting arguments before an audience and judges. My primary intention was to test myself against the best law students across India. I wanted to see how I performed at a pan-India level, as it’s easy to excel in internal competitions, but the real challenge is competing against students from top law schools nationwide. This gave me a reality check and helped me build self-belief, proving that I could compete and succeed at this level.
You explored different formats in competitions rather than focusing on mastering one type. What was the reasoning behind this approach?
The idea was to hone different skills necessary for a good advocate. Once I had achieved a level of satisfaction in traditional moots, such as constitutional and competition law moots, I felt it was time to diversify. I participated in mediation competitions, client counseling, trial advocacy, and others to test myself in different scenarios and develop new skills. It was about pushing my limits and seeing what else I could excel at. I had only three years to participate due to the structure of my law school program, so I made the most of those years by participating in a variety of competitions to gain comprehensive experience.
You pursued several short courses from institutions like Columbia University and underwent training with the ICC International Court of Arbitration. What motivated you to pursue these courses, and did they influence your decision to pursue a foreign master’s degree?
I have always had a thirst for knowledge, especially in international law. I aimed to learn things beyond the classroom and gain an edge over others. These courses allowed me to gain transferable skills that weren’t typically part of the standard curriculum. For example, the training I received at the ICC in Paris taught me how arbitrations are managed under their rules. Such experiences provided me with practical insights and increased my employability. While these courses sparked my curiosity and played a role in my decision to pursue a master’s degree, they were part of a broader goal to gain international exposure and deepen my knowledge in international law.
You decided to pursue your LL.M. at the London School of Economics (LSE), which has a prestigious international law program. What key factors did you consider when selecting this program, and what convinced you it was the right choice?
Choosing a master’s program is not as straightforward as many students think. It requires deliberation because what you study during your master’s degree influences your future career trajectory. My shortlisting process was based on the area of law I wanted to specialize in, which was international dispute resolution. I knew that London is a global hub for international disputes, making it an ideal location for my studies.
Additionally, I meticulously researched the curriculum and the professors. For instance, I was interested in how in-depth LSE’s program covered international arbitration. I wasn’t looking for an overview but a specialization. Knowing that Professor Jan Kleinheisterkamp, who had a long history at LSE, was teaching when I applied, further solidified my choice. Lastly, proximity to the industry was crucial. Studying in London allowed me to be near the professional environment I aimed to work in, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
What approach did you take when writing your Statement of Purpose (SOP) for LSE, and what elements do you believe made it stand out?
I went through 20 to 30 iterations of my SOP. It’s essential to craft your own story, connecting your past experiences, current ambitions, and future goals. Universities want to know how you will use their program to achieve your objectives. I always advise students to be honest and authentic. Avoid borrowing someone else’s story. Be clear about your short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans, and show how the master’s program aligns with those goals.
It’s also crucial to follow the university’s guidelines to the letter. This includes adhering to the page limits, font structure, and specific pointers they provide. If you ignore these, universities may not even consider your application. It’s okay if you don’t have complete clarity, but having a medium-term plan is essential. Universities want to see that you have a roadmap, even if it evolves over time.
How long did you take to write your SOP, and what was your writing process like?
I recommend taking around three to four months to write an SOP. It doesn’t come together overnight. My process started with bullet points, covering sections like the university curriculum, professors, societies, and industry connections. I then expanded these into drafts, refining them over time. It’s important not to rush. Give yourself enough time and plan in advance, as great writing takes time to develop into a refined version.
Letters of Recommendation (LOR) are also a crucial component of the application process. How did you choose your recommenders, and what advice would you give to students with work experience on selecting the best ones?
First, always follow the university’s guidelines regarding LORs. For example, some programs, especially in the US, require both professional and academic recommendations. Choose recommenders based on the subject area you wish to pursue in your master’s program. Ideally, someone who taught you the relevant subject should write your recommendation, as they can attest to your knowledge and expertise.
The recommender should also be able to evaluate your analytical ability, not just in legal concepts but in case analysis and reasoning. Lastly, they should be able to vouch for your potential and caliber, stating how you could benefit from the master’s program. It’s essential to give your recommenders ample notice to prepare a thoughtful letter, rather than rushing them at the last minute.
What are your thoughts on choosing professors who you’ve worked with as teaching or research assistants for letters of recommendation?
It depends on who can best judge your abilities. If you’ve worked as a teaching or research assistant under a professor, that person is well-positioned to vouch for your grasp of the law and your analytical skills. They can provide detailed insights about your capabilities and work ethic. However, not everyone has the luxury of such positions. In such cases, the best approach is to seek recommendations from professors who have taught you directly and can speak to your class participation and potential.
Based on your experience, what are the common mistakes students make during the application process, and how can they avoid them?
A common mistake is insufficient research. It’s crucial to thoroughly understand the subjects, professors, societies, and industry connections offered by a university. Superficial research often results in generic applications, which don’t stand out. A well-researched application demonstrates that you understand the university’s strengths and shows your commitment to pursuing your chosen field.
Another mistake is not having a clear roadmap. Universities want to see how their degree fits into your long-term plans. It’s important to articulate how the program will be a stepping stone for your career. Lastly, some students choose subjects based on market trends rather than their interests. It’s essential to pursue areas you’re genuinely passionate about; otherwise, you risk studying something you don’t enjoy, which can impact your performance.
Universities require proof of English proficiency for foreign students. Did you take the TOEFL or IELTS? What is your recommendation for students?
I took the IELTS, as it was the straightforward option. While seeking a waiver is possible, it’s often a tedious process, and I recommend taking the exam. It may seem ironic, especially since many Indian law schools teach in English, but it’s a requirement. IELTS scores are valid for up to three years, which can be helpful not only for university applications but also for job applications, as they demonstrate fluency in English.
During your LL.M. program, you interned with UK-based firms. How did you secure these opportunities, and what strategies would you recommend for maximizing such experiences?
Interning during your studies is a valuable opportunity, but it’s important to align your internships with your area of study. Some students intern just for the sake of it, without a plan for how the experience will benefit them. My strategy was to identify a common connection between myself, my university, and the firm or individual I wanted to work with. For example, I interned with Vardags, a UK media law firm, by leveraging my role as Vice President of the Arbitration Society at LSE. I organized an event, inviting industry veterans who were LSE alumni. This gave me a chance to make a personal pitch, leading to an internship opportunity.
You are now a triple-qualified lawyer in England, India, and Ireland, which is impressive. Can you share your journey from undergraduate studies in India to qualifying as a lawyer in the UK?
The journey was long and challenging, with obstacles along the way. After my LL.M., I realized that if I wanted to work in international disputes, dual or multiple qualifications were essential. So, after completing my master’s, I started working at a firm in the UK. When COVID-19 hit, I used the lockdown period to study and prepare for the UK qualification exam. By 2021, I qualified as a solicitor in the UK, which opened more opportunities.
Additionally, I pursued higher rights of audience to enhance my advocacy skills. This qualification allows me to represent clients in any UK court, providing me with the flexibility to engage in both solicitor and barrister roles. It was a gradual process, but I recognized the need to continually enhance my qualifications to remain competitive in the legal industry.
Moving to a new country and transitioning from India to the UK must have been challenging. How did you adapt to life in the UK, both personally and academically, and what were some of the challenges you faced?
Adapting to life in the UK was indeed challenging. Coming from India, where we are constantly surrounded by family and friends, the solitude in the UK hits hard. You realize you are alone, and you have to navigate everything by yourself, from the rejections to the competitive nature of the legal industry. To cope, I made sure to keep myself engaged. For example, I took up a Spanish language course alongside my studies and was active as the Vice President of the Arbitration Society. These activities kept me busy and helped manage the feeling of homesickness.
Academically, the experience was also demanding. You need to stay on top of your readings and engage in class discussions, as the professors are experts and expect you to come prepared. My advice is to dive headfirst into the experience, as you need to get lost in the process to truly find your footing.
The cost of studying abroad is often a concern for many students. How did you manage your finances during your time at LSE, and do you have any financial advice for other students?
Financing is subjective and varies for each person, but there are ways to manage expenses effectively. One of the first things I did when I arrived in London was to buy a bicycle. It became my primary mode of transportation, saving me money on public transport. I also explored discounts available to students, such as student Oyster cards for reduced transport fares and food vouchers. Every small saving counts, especially when studying an expensive course abroad.
It’s essential to be mindful of your spending. Look for cost-efficient ways of doing things without compromising your experience. Being frugal doesn’t mean compromising on quality but rather being smart about managing your resources.
The UK offers a graduate visa, allowing international students to stay for two years after completing their courses. Do you think this time frame is sufficient, and what strategies would you suggest for making the most of it?
Two years is a sufficient period if you manage it well. I only had a four-month post-study work visa, so when I look at the two-year timeframe, it feels like a lot of time. However, the danger of having such a period is that some may become complacent, thinking they have ample time. My advice is to start early—connect with people, attend networking events, and research firms that are expanding. It’s important to transition from the graduate visa to a skilled worker visa as soon as possible to secure your stay.
Be proactive in reaching out to people in your field and watch for opportunities in firms that align with your career goals. Staying on your toes and making the most of the early months is crucial.
You returned to India briefly after your time at Gresham and then moved back to London to work for Albertsen. How was the transition between these countries, both personally and professionally?
The transition wasn’t easy. Returning to India and then moving back to London required me to keep my network active. Many UK firms don’t consider applicants who are not based locally, so I maintained my connections from my time at LSE and through networking events. I kept them updated on my qualifications and professional progress, which helped me secure an opportunity to return.
Maintaining connections is vital, especially when you aim to move between countries. Keeping people apprised of your professional journey and showing how you’ve advanced helps open doors when opportunities arise.
You are the Co-Chair of the Young Members Group at the Energy Disputes Arbitration Center in Istanbul. Can you tell us more about your role and responsibilities?
The UK Energy Disputes Arbitration Center, based in Istanbul, is a pioneering institute specializing in energy disputes, including arbitration and mediation. The center is geographically positioned at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it ideal for handling cross-border energy disputes. As the Co-Chair of the Young Members Group, I’m responsible for engaging young practitioners interested in energy arbitration. We are organizing events, including Istanbul Arbitration Week, and spearheading initiatives like a national-level energy arbitration moot called Word Settlement.
My role involves planning these events, setting up committees, and creating awareness through webinars and seminars. It’s an exciting opportunity to engage with emerging professionals and promote energy dispute resolution practices on an international scale.
What are the benefits of being a member of professional groups such as YIAC and YAG, and how can one maximize these memberships?
Being a member of these groups offers tremendous profile-raising opportunities, whether through publications or participation in webinars and seminars. It provides a unique platform to interact with senior members and new practitioners, offering one-on-one engagement that isn’t typically accessible in everyday professional life. I always advise people to be proactive. It’s not enough to be a passive member on paper; you need to capitalize on these memberships. If you’re interested in mentorship, actively seek it. If you want publication opportunities, pursue them. Make your membership work for you by contributing and engaging meaningfully with these organizations.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently during your LL.M. journey, or any advice you wish you had received before starting?
In hindsight, I might have considered gaining some work experience before pursuing my master’s degree. Having practical experience could have provided a clearer perspective and allowed me to make better sense of the concepts taught during the program. While I don’t regret how things turned out, I believe that work experience before a master’s can enhance the learning process.
My advice to others is to treat their master’s as a crown jewel and a stepping stone for the long term. Don’t assume that completing your degree will automatically open doors. It’s crucial to have a long-term plan and be prepared for fierce competition, especially in fields like international disputes and arbitration. The industry is extremely competitive, with professionals from all over the world vying for opportunities. It’s important to be ready for this level of competition and to put in the hard work needed to differentiate yourself.
What advice would you give to someone aiming to stand out in such a competitive field as international disputes and arbitration? Is it about skill-building or gaining specific experiences?
It’s crucial to first identify your end goal—whether it’s getting into a master’s program, applying for a job, or breaking into the industry. Once you know your objective, tailor your actions to achieve that specific goal. For example, I aimed to work in international disputes, so I pursued a dual qualification, which provided me with an edge over others.
Additionally, language skills are incredibly valuable and often underrated. Proficiency in languages like Spanish, French, German, or Arabic can significantly enhance your profile. In international disputes, the ability to communicate in a client’s native language can make you immediately more employable and valuable. It’s not just about being proficient in English; it’s about having the linguistic skills that set you apart. My advice is to figure out what you want to achieve and then determine what additional skills or qualifications will give you a competitive edge.
(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.)
