"It has been one of the best experiences of my academic life."
For the 23rd consecutive year, Deakin Law School (DLS) was honoured to have nine participants compete in the coveted Vis Moot in both Hong Kong and Vienna.
DLS Lecturer Dr Benjamin Hayward coached the students intensively through hypothetical disputes, raising complex issues of international commercial arbitration law and international sale of goods law, as well as developing written submissions on those legal issues for both sides in the dispute.
Paola Ramirez and Andrea Anastasi competed in the Hong Kong round of the trip and shared their experience with us.
Paola Ramirez
‘For me, the Vis Moot was great and unforgettable. It was an amazing opportunity to meet outstanding law students from all over the world in beautiful cities such as Hong Kong and Vienna and not only that; a privilege to argue against professionals and distinguished academics.
The experience was valuable on an academic level, as the research undertaken and the feedback given in every single practice moot, helped me to develop my oral advocacy and written legal skills.
As an international student with English as a second language, participating in this international competition definitely built my confidence with the language and my writing and speaking skills have also significantly improved.
When I started my law degree, I did not imagine I was going to be able to go overseas to represent Deakin University in an oral advocacy competition. Moreover, I did not think I was going to be selected to go overseas when I applied to the program. However, it has been one of the best experiences of my academic life and I would definitely do it again if I had the opportunity.’
Andrea Anastasi
‘Since high school, practicing international law has been one of my career aspirations. I was so excited when I found out in first year that Deakin has participated in the world-renowned Vis Moot. I thought it would be an incredible opportunity to do “real” legal work and a great chance to test out if I actually liked the area of law I wanted to work in.
The most challenging part of the Vis Moot for me, was the oral round presentation, because although I was very confident with my knowledge of the law, I wasn’t as confident with my ability to convey information clearly, calmly and persuasively. Practicing continuously in front of my teammates, professionals and even my friends, gave me the boost I needed.
The actual competition was very satisfying especially as I could look at the judges, quote what the opponent had said and completely discredit their arguments. Essentially the journey provided me a unique academic experience.’
Don't forget to check in later this week and read about D’Arcy Hope and Joseph Braverman's experience who competed in the Vienna round.