Meet Satish: WTI Alumni Stories

Q: What brought you to study in the WTI's TRAIL+ program?

I am a trade lawyer, and I practiced trade remedy and customs law in India for over a decade before coming to the World Trade Institute. Having gained practical experience in WTO laws, I have always wanted to do go back to school and learn the theoretical intricacies of international trade and investment law.

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

The World Trade Institute is not only known for WTO and investment law but prominently for its interdisciplinary approach dealing with political economy, econometrics, border measures, international negotiation, digital trade, trade policy-making, and contemporary topics like sustainable development and interlinkages with trade. Having past Appellate Body Members, eminent scholars and professors, law firm partners, WTO Secretariat officials, as professors and lecturers set the program class apart.

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

The course was expectedly intense as it was an advanced master's program. At the same time, the curriculum was carefully designed to not only focus on the fundamental aspects but also explain the intricacies of the subjects. Also, the curriculum also helps students relate the laws with contemporary issues, helping them to apply them as soon as they start working in various capacities.

The faculty and administration is always available to support students, whether it be studies, career or personal support.

The course exposed me to various other aspects of law and subjects that I did not encounter before. Further, I belonged to a cohort from 16 nationalities with varied work experience, cultural and belief systems. A multi-cultural setting helped me understand and appreciate the various angles on the same issues. WTI is indeed a remarkable melting pot of culture and talent.

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

I always knew what I was signing up for - a year-long intensive course. Having set my expectations – I set my process to prepare for every lecture daily. Every course was given equal importance. The fast-paced nature of the program helped me keep focus and manage time effectively – while allowing me sufficient time to network and (also take time off to visit all the nice places around).

The above process eventually paid off when I had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to briefly help Prof. Peter Van den Bossche and Prof. Werner Zdouc. Also, participating as a speaker at this year’s WTO Public Forum was an unforgettable experience.

Working with Iryna Polovets during our moot court competition eventually helped me network better, eventually leading to my internship at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). IISD, in turn, allowed me to attend closed discussions and further interact with experts and delegates. To be able to publish two articles for IISD was a cherry on the cake.

Looking back, I realize an opportunity can appear anytime and anywhere. One just needs to trust the process and be prepared and ready.

Q: Looking back, what does being a part of this program mean to you now?

There is a saying in Sanskrit, which also happens to be a motto of a famous domestic cricket league. The quote reads - "Yatra Pratibha Avsara Prapnotihi" meaning "where talent meets opportunity".

The quote is apt for the World Trade Institute. For anyone interested in trade and investment law and policy, WTI is a great launch pad. The intensive and fast-paced course has year-long activities, seminars, guest lectures, and networking opportunities. Hence, staying focused, managing time, and trusting the process is essential. If done well, the sky is the limit. This is apparent from WTI’s vast alumni network spead across continents and organizations.

At the same time, coming and living in Switzerland and Europe is once in a lifetime opportunity. Making friends and going around Switzerland should not be compromised in any way.

My advice to incoming students is that if you have made it till here – you are already among the best. Make the most of your multicultural cohort and lectures delivered by the very best of trade and investment law. You may perhaps be the next trade diplomat, WTO Secretariat official, law firm partner or a distinguished expert in the field of trade and investment law. Being an ignoramus helps – keep posing questions and keep the learning process on.