Alumni Spotlight: From Trade Law to Consulting

What motivated you to study at the World Trade Institute (WTI), and what drew you to Switzerland?

My motivation to study at the World Trade Institute came from a strong interest in international trade, economic law, and the way global rules shape business decisions. Coming from a legal background, I was fascinated by how WTO rules, free trade agreements, sustainability regulations, tariffs, customs procedures, and supply chains influence companies, governments, and markets in practice.

WTI stood out because of its truly interdisciplinary approach. It was not only about legal provisions, but also about economics, policy, negotiations, development, sustainability, and real-world implementation. That combination was exactly what I was looking for.

Switzerland was also a natural choice. Its position at the centre of the international legal and economic system, combined with its proximity to international organisations and diplomatic networks, made it an ideal environment for someone interested in global trade and policy. At the same time, it offered a structured and academically focused setting that supported both personal and professional growth.

What were your first impressions of studying and living in Switzerland?

My first impression was how structured, thoughtful, and well-prepared everything was. Even before classes began, WTI provided detailed welcome materials and programme information, which helped me understand the expectations of the programme and prepare in advance.

Coming directly from my bachelor’s degree, I was initially concerned about subjects such as economics and quantitative analysis. Having access to study materials early allowed me to build confidence before arriving.

The induction programme was particularly memorable. It was not just a formal welcome; it helped us connect with classmates, understand the programme structure, and settle into the academic environment. What stood out most was that the international exposure started immediately. Early in the programme, we attended events such as the WTO Public Forum and the Trade for Sustainable Development (T4SD) Forum, which gave us direct exposure to real-world trade policy discussions and networking opportunities.

Which aspects of the WTI experience had the biggest impact on your personal and professional development?

Professionally, WTI broadened my understanding of trade law by exposing me to WTO law, investment law, dispute settlement, trade and sustainability, digital trade, negotiations, and economic analysis. It helped me move beyond a purely legal perspective and understand how trade issues connect with business strategy, regulatory risk, development priorities, and geopolitical developments.

Personally, WTI gave me confidence. Being in classrooms with people from different countries, legal systems, and professional backgrounds taught me how to express my views, defend my arguments, and engage with diverse perspectives. It also taught me the value of listening and learning from others.

Equally important was the sense of community. While academically demanding, WTI was also welcoming, supportive, and genuinely enjoyable. The combination of engaging discussions, inspiring professors, and a close-knit student community made the experience especially meaningful.

How did your studies at WTI prepare you for your current role in consulting?

WTI prepared me for consulting in two key ways.

First, it provided a strong theoretical foundation. Through courses on WTO law, free trade agreements, trade remedies, sustainability regulations, economics, investment law, and dispute settlement, I learned how to analyse trade issues in a structured and interdisciplinary way.

Second, WTI provided valuable practical exposure. Through guest lectures, post-class discussions, the Winter Academy, the Summer Academy, and networking events, I had the opportunity to interact with professionals from consulting firms, multinational companies, international organisations, government institutions, and academia.

These experiences helped me understand that trade law is not only about interpreting rules, but also about helping businesses make informed decisions in an increasingly complex global environment.

Can you tell us about your career journey after graduating from WTI?

After graduating from WTI, I became increasingly certain that I wanted to work at the intersection of trade law, regulation, and business. Consulting felt like a natural fit.

The guidance I received from WTI faculty was instrumental in that process. Faculty members helped me think strategically about my career path, refine my professional profile, and identify opportunities aligned with my interests and strengths.

The wider WTI network also played an important role. Through the Winter Academy, Summer Academy, guest lectures, and professional events, I connected with practitioners from consulting, in-house legal teams, international organisations, and the corporate sector. These interactions helped shape my understanding of potential career paths and ultimately supported my transition into consulting.

What skills or perspectives from your time at WTI do you use most in your work today?

The skill I use most is the ability to connect legal rules with business realities.

In consulting, it is not enough to understand what a regulation says. You also need to understand what it means for a company, a supply chain, or a market. WTI trained me to approach trade issues through multiple lenses, considering legal, economic, policy, and commercial implications simultaneously.

The international environment at WTI also helped me become more adaptable and culturally aware, which is invaluable in client-facing work.

How has an international education influenced your career opportunities and professional outlook?

An international education broadened my perspective considerably. It taught me to view trade issues as inherently cross-border and multi-layered rather than limited to a single jurisdiction.

Studying alongside people from different countries and professional backgrounds exposed me to a wide range of perspectives and approaches. It also expanded my understanding of possible career paths, from traditional legal practice to consulting, policy, compliance, international organisations, and business-focused advisory roles.

What differences did you notice between academic or professional cultures in Switzerland and elsewhere?

The biggest difference I noticed was the emphasis on structure, preparation, and precision. There is a strong respect for organisation, clarity, and independent thinking.

At WTI, the academic culture was rigorous but also remarkably open. Professors were approachable, and students were encouraged to engage actively in discussions and challenge ideas. Compared to more hierarchical educational environments, this felt both refreshing and empowering.

I also appreciated the diversity of perspectives represented in classroom discussions. Trade issues were regularly examined through European, Asian, African, and Latin American lenses, which enriched the learning experience considerably.

Looking back, what was the most valuable part of your experience at WTI?

The most valuable aspect of my experience was the combination of academic learning, mentorship, and community.

WTI provided a strong foundation in international trade law and policy, but it also connected me with professors, practitioners, and peers who helped me think more clearly about my career and professional development.

The network I built through classes, academies, conferences, and events continues to be valuable today. Just as importantly, WTI was a place where I felt challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering WTI and an international career path?

My advice would be to arrive with curiosity and make full use of the opportunities available. WTI is much more than a classroom experience. Some of the most valuable lessons come from conversations with classmates, interactions with professors, participation in events, and the networks you build along the way.

The more actively you engage with the community, the more rewarding the experience will be. WTI offers a unique environment where academic learning, professional development, and international exposure come together, and taking advantage of all three can have a lasting impact on your career.

About Shruti

Shruti Jhanwar is an LL.M. candidate in International Trade and Investment Law and a Diploma candidate in International Law and Economics (TRAIL+) at the World Trade Institute (WTI), University of Bern. She holds a B.B.A., LL.B. (Hons.) from Jindal Global Law School, O.P. Jindal Global University, India. Her academic and professional interests lie at the intersection of international trade law, economic regulation, sustainability, and business strategy. Currently working in consulting, she advises clients on complex trade, regulatory, and compliance matters in an increasingly interconnected global economy.