Meet Gauri: WTI Alumni Stories

Q: Why did you choose this program, and what made it stand out compared to other options? 

A: I was drawn to the WTI because of its strong interdisciplinary approach, which integrates both law and economics. In trade law, understanding the economic principles behind each provision is essential to grasp the broader purpose and impact of the law. The program at the WTI offers a holistic view that I believe is crucial for truly understanding the complexities of international trade and investment.

Q: How did the program’s curriculum and faculty support your learning and career goals? 

A: I found the teaching at the WTI to be highly practical and top-quality which was instrumental in supporting my academic and career aspirations. Alongside the general courses, the curriculum included specialized courses such as International Economic Law in pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Digital Trade Law, Advanced Investment Law, etc. These courses addressed some of the most pressing issues in trade and investment today, making the learning relevant and current.

Additionally, we benefited from guest lectures by professionals from the public and private sectors, as well as international organizations. This exposure kept me up to date with the latest developments and real-world applications in trade and investment law.

The WTI faculty was incredibly helpful. I found them to be approachable, helpful and truly committed to supporting students. Their guidance and willingness to answer questions deepened my understanding of the field and helped me shape my career goals.

Q: How did the program challenge you or push you to grow both academically and personally?

A: The program at WTI is rigorous, and I found it academically challenging in the best possible way. The program structure — incorporating moot court exercises, research papers, exams, and presentations — prepared us to bridge theory and practice, equipping us with the skills needed to transition smoothly into the professional world. Each component of the course helped me to apply what I’d learned in real-world scenarios.

On a personal level, the experience has been transformative. The diversity in our class allowed me to learn from a variety of cultures and perspectives, broadening my worldview. I’ve also grown to be more independent, and one of the most valuable lessons I’ve taken away from my time at WTI is the importance of efficiency. This program shaped not only my academic path -- but also my approach to life.

Q: What was the community or culture like among students, faculty, and alumni? 

A: The student community at WTI felt close-knit. We did so much together, from studying to exploring Bern, and we were always ready to help each other out - it made every day a lot of fun. The faculty was encouraging and supportive, especially my supervisor, Prof. Dr. Peter L.H. Van den Bossche, whose mentorship and guidance made a huge difference in my journey. The in-house staff were amazing, too. They were there for us with anything we needed and were incredibly kind. We even celebrated birthdays with cake at the institute, which made me feel warm and welcomed.

Q: Did you feel that the alumni network helped you after graduation? If so, how? 

A: The WTI alumni network is fantastic. We had alumni talks at the WTI, where former students would share their journeys and experiences with us. These sessions helped learn from their insights and navigate our own career paths. They also provided great opportunities for building connections and expanding our professional networks.

Q: How did the program prepare you for your career path or your next steps after graduation? 

A: The WTI program prepares us for internships, jobs, and career opportunities. One example is the course on International Courts and Tribunals, where we were required to write a seminar paper on a specific aspect of WTO law. Coming from a non-trade law background, this was invaluable, as I could use this paper as a writing sample—a requirement for many internship applications in the trade law field.

Another key course was Border Measures and Trade Facilitation, offered during the Winter Academy. We covered topics like tariffs, HS classification, free trade agreements (FTAs), and FTA rules, which were directly relevant to my current role. Among other things, the content of this course aligned well with the job requirements and helped me secure the position. The program’s focus on practical, relevant skills really made a difference in my career preparation.

A specific example of how the WTI supported me was when I reached out to the faculty for feedback on my resume and job applications. They provided detailed and constructive feedback that significantly improved my applications. Since I come from a different country and am not as familiar with the job market here, their advice was invaluable. I’d especially like to thank Dr. Rodrigo Polanco for his guidance, which truly made a difference in my job search.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who is considering joining the program? 

A: My advice would be to stay proactive right from the start. The program moves quickly, and it can be challenging to catch up if you fall behind. I’d especially recommend focusing on the first semester, as it lays the foundation for the specialized courses that come later. Building a strong base early on will make it much easier to dive into the advanced topics.

Q: What do you wish you had known before starting the program, and what would you tell incoming students to make the most of it? 

A: Looking back, I only wish I had fully believed the warnings about the intensity of the program and how busy it would be. I would advise incoming students to take this seriously, so they can manage their time well and avoid feeling overwhelmed. This way, in addition to focusing on their studies, they can also take the opportunity to explore Switzerland, which is incredibly beautiful. Balancing both academic demands and personal exploration will make for a much more rewarding experience.

Q: What does being a part of this program mean to you now? 

A: Looking back, being a part of this program has been truly fulfilling for me. It has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally, providing me with valuable knowledge, skills, and perspectives that I will carry forward in my career. I had an unforgettable experience, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to be a part of it.

Q. If you had to summarize your experience in the program in one sentence, what would it be?

A: I’d like to describe my experience in one word, ‘phenomenal'.