Ishan Kapoor

Before joining UCL Laws, Ishan Kapoor built a strong legal foundation in India, working at the Supreme Court and alongside senior members of the judiciary. Drawn by UCL Laws’ intellectually open environment and global outlook, he came to explore how law can advance social justice. Reflecting on his year in London, he shares how he grew academically, gained personal independence, and discovered the city’s rich history and culture.

Give us a brief overview of your academic and personal journey before joining UCL Laws.

I completed my undergraduate degree (BA. LLB) in 2019. I have served as a Law Clerk-cum-Research Assistant at the Chambers of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Hrishikesh Roy (Judge, Supreme Court of India). I learnt the nuances of criminal law at the Chambers of Mr. Sidharth Luthra, Senior Advocate (equivalent to King’s Counsel) and Former Additional Solicitor General of India. I also handled independent cases as an arguing counsel in matters pertaining to criminal law before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India.

What has surprised you most about UCL Laws or your time in London?

London had many surprises in store for me. Back home in India, Sunday is a busy day for markets, but in London, most shops close by 6 PM. In my first week itself, I learnt the lesson to buy groceries early on Sunday!

I was also surprised by the E-Library feature, which was something new for me, as my undergraduate university did not provide such facilities. The E-Library was very useful, as I could access the latest books from the comfort of my room while sipping Indian Masala Chai.

Can you share some of the challenges you faced during your studies and how you overcame them?

The first challenge was coping with the pressure of returning to college after a gap of five years. Fortunately, I was not the only one; there were a few others who had taken a break from the profession before pursuing a master’s.

Another challenge was adapting to the education pattern in England, which is quite different from back home. The faculty were always ready to help. I frequently used office hours to meet professors, who gave me a patient hearing and cleared my doubts. Academic staff at UCL have multiple commitments and are extremely busy, but I can vouch from personal experience that they are only an email away.

A favourite moment from the course, class discussions, mooting, a project, or an internship?

My favourite moment was when Professor David Ormerod took us to the Crown Court. His lectures were truly the highlight of my time at UCL.

How have you grown during your time here – as a student, aspiring legal professional, or personally?

After coming to London, I learnt to cook and wake up on my own to the beep of an alarm, as there was no one to tell me I’d miss the lecture if I didn’t get out of bed. I became independent to a certain extent.

Further, UCL broadened my understanding of law. My perspective is now more global. During my time here, I learnt some very interesting aspects of the English legal system that I believe India should adopt. I will try to pitch my ideas to the appropriate forums when I return.

What are your summer plans, and what’s next after graduation?

I plan to spend my summer exploring the United Kingdom. I admire Shah Rukh Khan (Bollywood actor), and many of his movies have been shot in London. I’m trying to visit as many of these filming locations as possible.

After graduation, I will return to India to continue my litigation journey, as I have my own private practice there. In May this year, I was also empanelled as Assisting Counsel for the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee. In fact, throughout the course, I have been working remotely for my practice in India.

⁠⁠What advice would you give to new students joining UCL Laws this year?

Don’t leave things until the last minute. Keep a fine balance between studying and exploring London. Choose your modules wisely. And do sign up for the Academic Legal Writing class — I signed up a little late!

Follow Ishan Kapoor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishan-kapoor-a23964134/