'My Unforgettable Summer at ECUPL in Shanghai' - A UCC Law Student’s Experience

2 Sep 2024

In the article below, LLM Business Law student, Tara Geraghty, reflects on her experience at East China University of Political Science & Law's Summer School in Shanghai, which she attended this summer. 

''This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to attend East China University of Political Science and Law Summer School in Shanghai. This experience was made possible by the generous scholarship awarded by UCC, on behalf of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, that included accommodation, tuition fees, meals on campus, insurance and educational travel excursions. The programme brought together students from eleven different nationalities to learn about Chinese Political and Legal Culture. The experience was both enriching and inspiring, offering a unique blend of cultural immersion and academic growth.

Immersing in Chinese legal and Political Culture

As an aspiring international lawyer, this programme gave me the opportunity to  immerse myself in a different legal framework. From the moment I arrived in Shanghai, I was struck by the cities vibrant blend of ancient culture and modern dynamism. The Summer School spanned a month, during which I delved deep into the intricacies of China’s legal framework. The curriculum was thoughtfully structured and covered a wide range of topics such as Chinese Foreign Investment law, Constitutional law, and introductory mandarin classes! Additionally, we explored the historical evolution of Chinas political institutions and their impact on contemporary governance. The programme emphasised that while China gets a great deal of negative press, it is also one of the most beautiful countries in the world and deserves greater recognition for its positive attributes.

A Collaborative Learning Environment

The classes were intellectually stimulating and were conducted by distinguished faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. Their comparative analyses between Chinese and Western legal traditions highlighted both convergences and divergences. A highlight of the programme was having the opportunity to attend a discussion on Financial law and International Arbitration by the esteemed Sir William Blair. Each scholar brought their own unique insight and perspective on the issues discussed, providing a holistic approach to learning.  I enjoyed discussing the Irish legal system and culture with my international colleagues, and learning about their legal systems and cultures in return. Group projects and interactive sessions facilitated a deeper engagement with the material and helped forge lasting friendships. I am immensely grateful to my classmates for their camaraderie and the stimulating intellectual exchanges we shared.

Beyond the Classroom

Shanghai itself was a classroom. Exploring landmarks, such as the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and the Shanghai Tower, provided insight into China’s history and rapid modernisation. Cultural excursions organised by ECUPL, included visits to the prestigious ZHIHE PARTNERS law firm and Shanghai’s First Intermediate People’s Court. Both experiences crystalised my theoretical knowledge into practical reality. Throughout the month we learned about specific aspects of Chinese culture including Characters, Calligraphy and Opera.  Visiting neighbouring cities such as Suzhou, Hangzhou and Zhujiajiao with this cultural knowledge enabled us to holistically view Chinese society.

Gratitude to UCC

During my trip, I had the privilege of meeting the Dean of UCC School of Law, Professor Mark Poustie, during his two-week teaching engagement in Shanghai. His invaluable advice and willingness to help made a significant positive impact on my experience.  A special thank you to Dr. Henrietta Zeffert for her unwavering encouragement and support throughout the programme.

Thank you to UCC School of Law for giving me this fantastic opportunity. The scholarship not only made this experience financially feasible but also underscored the universities commitment to offering its students global learning opportunities. I am deeply appreciative of UCC’s investment in my education and their belief in the importance of cross-cultural academic experiences.

Attending the ECUPL Summer School was more than just an academic endeavour, it was a transformative experience that broadened my horizons both personally and professionally. I return to Ireland with a profound appreciation for the complexities of the Chinese legal system and a network of international peers who share the same passion for law. This experience has undoubtedly enriched my legal education and will continue to influence my career in the years to come.''