Course Spotlight - LL203: International Commercial Litigation and Arbitration

We sat down with Roberta to hear about her experience of studying LL203: International Commercial Litigation and Arbitration at Summer School - read on to hear her thoughts on the course content, her favourite parts and what it was like meeting fellow Summer School students. 

 

Why did you decide to attend LSE Summer School?

I decided to attend LSE Summer School as LSE is undeniably one of the world’s top universities, and its Summer School programme is expertly designed to meet every student’s need, offering a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills and experience that significantly enhances a CV.

Why did you choose your course?

I chose LL203 because the course content and topics were highly relevant to my field of study and aligned with my interests. I was also eager to experience a different academic teaching style and perspective from the professors, offering fresh insights compared to the approach typically found at universities in my home country (Italy).

Tell us about an average day as a student on your course.

My course was structured around morning seminars and afternoon lectures. After starting my day with breakfast at the LSE café, I would attend the seminars, lasting around an hour and a half, involving small group discussions on key topics. Following the seminar, I’d meet up with friends for lunch near campus before heading to the three-hour afternoon lectures. In the evenings, I often made use of the quiet study spaces in the LSE library to review course material or work on assignments. Afterward, I would hang out with my classmates around campus. Our evenings would typically end with a relaxed dinner, followed by either unwinding at the campus pubs or heading into the city to explore London's vibrant social scene and take part in fun activities.

What was your favourite part of your course?

My favourite aspect of the course was delving into the intricacies of arbitration procedures in an international context, guided by the insightful teachings of my exceptional professors. I was particularly fascinated by how arbitration provides a more flexible and efficient solution to cross-border disputes. Moreover, gaining an in-depth understanding of how the enforcement of arbitral awards varies across different legal systems significantly broadened my perspective on global dispute resolution and equipped me with valuable skills for my future career.

What advice would you give to students considering your course?

If you’re considering enrolling in this course, I highly encourage you to embrace the challenges that the coursework entails, as the course is specifically designed to sharpen your analytical and problem-solving skills, both of which are vital in the field of International Commercial Litigation and Arbitration. Moreover, actively participating in class discussions with your peers and professors will significantly enrich your understanding of the material. By approaching the course with an open mind, you’ll not only maximize your learning experience but also lay a strong foundation for future success in your career.

What are your short-term professional goals, and how does your course contribute to these goals?

I aspire to pursue a career in International Commercial Law after graduating, and I am confident that the course I completed at LSE Summer School has equipped me with knowledge and skills that will help me in achieving this goal. Through an in-depth analysis of arbitration processes and of various dispute resolution mechanisms, I have gained foundations for understanding the complexities of international trade. Furthermore, the practical applications of arbitration in resolving cross-border disputes have significantly enhanced my ability to navigate the challenges I may face as a legal professional in the future.

Was meeting and talking to other students on your course easy?

Meeting and connecting with other students on the course felt natural and effortless, largely due to the welcoming and collaborative environment of LSE Summer School. From the start, it was clear that we all shared a genuine interest in law and international disputes, which created a sense of common ground and made conversations flow easily. The structure of the course itself, with its emphasis on group discussions and case studies, encouraged deeper engagement. However, what made the experience even more enriching was the diversity of my course mates, each bringing unique cultural perspectives to the pot. I’m grateful to have made meaningful connections with my course mates, who not only enhanced my learning but also made the entire experience at LSE truly memorable.

How would you explain your course to someone who has never heard of it?

The course introduces students to how disputes between businesses or parties from different countries are resolved. Especially in a globalised world, companies often do business internationally, and when disagreements arise, it is important for a law student to know ways to settle them efficiently. In particular, the course focuses on two possibilities: litigation and arbitration. Litigation refers to the processes of formal court systems, while arbitration is a private method in which both parties agree to have their case decided by an independent third party, who is called, of course, an arbitrator. Moreover, the course focuses on the interaction between different countries' laws, involving real-world case studies.

How has your course helped you in your undergraduate degree/career plans?

Academically, the course deepened my understanding of dispute resolution, which has been valuable in complementing my legal education, especially in comparison to my previous legal knowledge. In terms of my career, participating in the course solidified my passion for international law and dispute resolution, confirming it as a potential career path. The skills I developed, such as case analysis and understanding how different legal systems interact, are appliable across various legal sectors I’m interested in. Lastly, the course shed light on the increasing role of arbitration in global business law, which has inspired me to seriously consider specialising in this field in the future.

What was your favourite part of studying at LSE?

What I loved most about studying at LSE was the incredibly vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment. Being part of a community where students and professors were not only passionate but also came from such diverse backgrounds made every class feel dynamic and enriching: the exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences constantly pushed me to think critically and expand my worldview. Moreover, the international mix of students added a valuable richness to conversations, making them more meaningful and eye-opening. Beyond the classroom, the fact that LSE is located right in the heart of London was a huge bonus. The opportunities for cultural immersion, professional networking, and just soaking in the energy of the city made my time there unforgettable. It was more than just an academic experience, it was a deeply personal and transformative journey that I’ll always cherish!

 

This interview was written by one of our 2024 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.