Be a TRAIL-blazer: Vishal Shrivastava

What’s your name and where are you from?
My Name is Vishal Shrivastava and I am from Delhi, India.

What’s your academic background?
I graduated with a B.B.A. L.LB (Bachelors in Business Administration and Bachelor of Laws) degree from Symbiosis International University in 2019.

How did you hear about the WTI?
I had developed an interest in International Trade during my third year of law school, which led me to an Internship at the Centre of WTO Studies (CWS) under Ministry of Commerce, Government of India in May- June 2018. While working there, I learnt about the Joint Academy hosted jointly by CWS and WTI and subsequently about the WTI as an institution itself from the staff there and the programs offered there.

Why did you choose the TRAIL+ programme?
My selection of the programme was based on variety of factors. The primary motive behind the selection was the subjects offered, which includes a mix of both law and economics and the professors who teach the subjects. The close proximity of WTI to Geneva, was another factor in consideration, since the city has headquarters of the WTO, allowing for greater interaction with the professionals working in the field.

What do you like about the TRAIL+ programme?
TRAIL + programme has given me an opportunity to explore and understand International trade and other allied concepts of politics and diplomacy in minute details. The programme has been quite intense, but rewarding, since it has constantly challenged me to understand and think about the current issues in the international trade and other fields. Economics gave an extra dimension to the programme, which greatly improved my understanding of International Trade and its allied concepts. The programme has offered constant interaction with various professionals in the field, who shared their knowledge and gave wonderful advice about future careers in this field, is highly appreciative.

How has life in Bern been so far?
Life in Bern has been very exciting and rewarding. The joy of seeing the greenery and the snow-capped mountains has provided a soothing effect to cope with the rigours of the programme. I have used every opportunity to explore the cities, town and villages of this beautiful country and made many friends along the way.

What are your plans for the future and how will a degree from the WTI help you in achieving them?
My plans for the future are to pursue a career in Academics and a researcher in International trade. The degree from WTI will help me in applying at the right places and give me the impetus in achieving my career aspirations.

Would you recommend the TRAIL+ programme?
Yes, I would definitely recommend this programme to all those who aspire to have a career in this field of International Trade and Economics.

Thank you for the interview!