Yasmin Hanan

Originally from Indonesia, Yasmin Hanan joined UCL Laws after working as an associate at a corporate law firm. She reflects on the rewarding intensity of the LLM experience, the sense of community that helped her thrive, and the friendships built within a truly global and diverse cohort. As a Student Representative at the faculty, she was recognised with the Academic Reps of the Year award in 2025. Her advice to new students: embrace every challenge, support each other, and make the most of UCL’s vibrant, diverse environment. 

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

Before joining UCL Laws, I worked as an associate at a corporate law firm in Indonesia, where I focused on matters related to competition, antitrust, and consumer protection. Prior to entering professional practice, I earned my LLB from Universitas Indonesia, which laid the academic foundation for my interest in legal development and policy.

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

London, in many ways, reminds me of Jakarta, my hometown — it’s vibrant, diverse, and full of life. It’s a true melting pot where you meet people from all walks of life, each bringing unique stories and perspectives. The city offers endless learning opportunities, both inside and outside the classroom.

As for UCL Laws, I’d describe it as ‘stressful fun’. Completing an LLM degree in under a year with reading materials and assignments constantly piling up, alongside exams and essays, is quite literally not for the faint-hearted! Yet, every challenge overcome has been incredibly rewarding. Each module has left me feeling more capable, informed, and resilient.

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

One of the biggest challenges was balancing my academic workload with my responsibilities as a Student Representative for the LLM cohort. It was challenging to support peers going through similar pressures while managing my own. But surprisingly, knowing I wasn’t alone brought comfort and motivation. When others came to me for advice or simply to talk, it created a shared space where we could navigate our difficulties together. Sometimes, helping others find solutions helped me reflect on my own challenges, and vice versa. This shared experience fostered a strong sense of community and mutual growth.

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

Rather than one single moment, my favourite part of the LLM programme has been the cohort itself. Despite our diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ages, we formed an incredible community marked by genuine camaraderie. At social events hosted by the Graduate Law Society, everyone mingled and connected effortlessly. More importantly, when academic challenges arose — whether about modules, exams, or referencing — the cohort became a supportive forum where ideas and solutions were freely exchanged. That spirit of collaboration was truly special.

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

I've become more grounded and self-aware. This experience has enriched me far beyond academic gain. Personally, I discovered how much I enjoy being around brilliant, intellectually curious people. The discussions we had — full of passion, insight, and curiosity — rarely felt unproductive. Everyone brought something valuable to the table.

It was also humbling to see that even the most gifted students faced struggles. That shared vulnerability made our community stronger and more inspiring. I came to UCL Laws hoping to explore legal development and comparative legal perspectives. I’m leaving with much more: a broadened worldview shaped by rigorous academics and a community that constantly challenged and uplifted me.

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

I plan to stay in London over the summer and explore professional opportunities here. I’m also considering branching out beyond traditional legal roles. My journey at UCL and before showed me that while the study of law is fascinating, the people in the legal industry are equally compelling.

I’m open to roles that involve engaging with legal professionals and students, even if not as a practising lawyer. Whether that path leads to legal education, policy, or something entirely new, I’m excited to see where it takes me.

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

Savour every moment — this experience goes by faster than you think. One day, you're sitting next to someone you’ve just met at orientation; before you know it, that person has become a close friend, and you're both wearing graduation gowns.

Embrace the highs and the challenges. This journey is as much about personal growth and the connections you build as it is about academics. Make the most of it.

Follow Yasmin:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasmin-hanan/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminhanan/