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What encouraged you to pursue a degree in International Commercial Law?
I studied the LLM specialism in Litigation and Dispute Resolution. I’m from Chile and as a developing country, Chile needs continued specialisation in all areas of the economy, not least in dispute resolution matters. More than ten years have elapsed since the publication of the International Commercial Arbitration Law, and Chilean court precedents have been respectful towards arbitral agreements - having consistently recognised and enforced foreign arbitral awards. As a result, Chile is now the perfect candidate to be the venue for international dispute resolution in Latin America.
This vision for Chile, coupled with my career goals of becoming an expert counsellor for both domestic and international disputes, led me to apply to UCL due to the specialised LLM in Litigation and Dispute Resolution.
Why did you choose to study at UCL Laws?
The modules Law and Policy of International Courts and Tribunals, and International Arbitration were of special interest to me. Indeed, the opportunity of studying such modules under Professor Philippe Sands and Dr Martins Paparinskis, respectively, was a bonus in my decision to attend UCL Laws.
What is your fondest memory of your time here?
My best memory of UCL Laws would be interacting with highly regarded lecturers and students; studying in the heart of London; and the diverse learning experience. All these factors helped expand my understanding of the world.
What have you gone on to do since graduating?
After graduating, I worked in London in the international arbitration group of Baker Botts. A partner and I founded a boutique dispute resolution firm in Chile - Abogabir Miranda - which now has three partners and three associates. I also became an arbitrator for the Arbitration and Mediation Centre of the Santiago Chamber of Commerce, which is by far the most respected arbitration centre in Chile and very well regarded in Latin America.
What advice would you give to prospective or current students at UCL?
My advice for prospective students would be to work hard and make use of the opportunities in London, as you will be living in the coolest city in the world. For me, working in a London-based law firm was the best way to complete my experience, so I would also advise students to start networking early on to help boost your career prospects.
