Please, tell us something about yourself

My name is Ali Chaudhry, and I am currently pursuing a PhD in Law. My research looks at artificial intelligence, technological change, and the future of law. I currently teach on LL1005 English Legal System and LL2001 Land Law and am hoping to pursue a career as a lecturer in law upon completion of my doctorate. Outside of law and teaching, I am an avid guitarist, gamer, and follower of combat sports.

Why did you choose to study Law at Royal Holloway?

I initially chose to study Law at Royal Holloway due to the novelty of the course. When I was applying to study Law, Royal Holloway had just launched an LLB Law programme. I enjoyed the prospect of becoming one of the first cohorts and benefitting from a closer-knit community compared to other institutions I had seen.

What was your experience like at RHUL? What did you enjoy the most?

Incredibly positive! Royal Holloway attracts students from across the globe, introducing me to individuals from diverse backgrounds and aiding me in forging friendships for life. What I enjoyed most was the student life at Royal Holloway. Courses were academically rigorous but flexible enough that you could undertake further reading and develop your own interests. This encouraged students to feel scholarly. It is hard to pinpoint a favourite module, but I developed a particular interest in Land Law and Equity & Trusts as they had a day-to-day reality to them. 

Did you take advantage of any of the extra-curricular activities organised by the Department? Do you think they helped you? How and why?

During the three years of my degree, I took advantage of most extra-curricular activities organised by the Department as I was unsure about what career path I wanted to pursue. In my first year, I attended voice training sessions with a professional vocal coach and participated in mock court where I represented the university in a Varsity competition. I also served as a first-year course representative for the Department. Throughout my degree, I was a regular attendee of the law networking evening which was incredibly useful in building my confidence.

How did your experience at the Department prepare for your career?

My experience at the Department prepared incredibly well for my career as both a researcher and a teacher. Regarding the former, I was able to choose optional modules with an independent research component and encouraged to form my own opinions when it came to assessing literature. Regarding the latter, I was offered the opportunity in my final year to deliver a lecture to non-law mooting students on the court system in England and Wales. This experience was very impactful, as I developed a deep interest in how students learned and how to plan as well as deliver an effective lesson.

Are there any members of the academic and administrative staff who you would like to commend for the support they gave you?

I’d like to commend all members of staff that I came into contact with in the course of my studies. Dr Lawrence Newport encouraged me to be fearless in the pursuit of truth and fostered my academic interests in law, history, philosophy and psychology. Dr Tim Sinnamon and Dr David Yuratich both provided incredible pastoral support in their capacity as my personal tutors and contributed greatly to my personal development whilst at university.

Did you enjoy your years at RHUL?

My years at Royal Holloway were the best three years of my life. I loved the academic environment, the inspiring staff I encountered, and all the memories I made. When I look back at who I was before attending university and who I am having completed my degree, the difference is remarkable. I am much more confident, intellectually curious, and prepared to tackle future challenges.

Any tips for applicants or newly-enrolled students?

Take advantage of all opportunities available. There is so much your degree and the Department have to offer, so go and seek it out. If you think you have an idea of what you would like to pursue in the future, experiment and try new things. You may find interest in something you had previously not considered, like me, or your previous interest may be reinforced. Additionally, make memories. Your time at university is not just a stage in education, it is a stage in life. Spend it doing what makes you happy and fulfilled.