Giorgia
Zollino

Best Mediation Advocacy at the International Chamber of Commerce International Mediation Competition 2021

This competition was a unique experience I was asked to partake in. From the beginning, a meeting was set up by the coaches to get to know the team better. I must admit I did not know the coaches or the students participating prior to this event, so it was quite intimidating. However, with lots of preparation and genuine commitment, intimidation turned into excitement.

There were a lot of aspects which were not clear at first. As an international competition it is expected to find a number of rules and regulations that can be confusing. However, there was availability as a team to ask questions and get answers. The coaches were extremely well informed on the rules of the competition and in explaining different mediation methods, while the University provided books with further information on the topic. Honest and detailed feedback from each other and the coaches was very important also, as it helped us improve our plans and strategies to be fully prepared for the preliminary rounds.

When the first scenario finally started, there were a lot of technical difficulties that pushed back the expected starting time. However, our coaches, the IT team and supervisors all worked quickly to help the competition continue smoothly. It was such an amazing opportunity getting feedback from esteemed mediators and experienced judges to apply to following rounds. The coaches had a lot of confidence in us as a team and ultimately reminded us to enjoy this experience. I believe that is how we were able to stand out and I am extremely proud of our team and our coaches representing Nottingham Law School for being awarded ‘Best Mediation Advocacy’.

The competition overall was a distinctive experience from which I have learnt so much. I am now able to apply the knowledge acquired to future events and interviews: the ability to meet and work with new people of all ages and experience; taking on criticism with an open mind to use it for further development; having had a great way to network with students and professionals for inspiration and much more. As a team member I am grateful for having had the chance to participate and I invite students to take part in similar events should the opportunity present itself.

Why did you choose NTU and Nottingham Law School?

The choice to study at NTU and Nottingham Law School was primarily influenced by student reviews. Moving to Nottingham meant I was leaving everything behind and putting my faith in the University, therefore it was important that I chose a University that cares for the students.

Why did you choose your course at NTU?

Mostly, I chose my course because of the Law School. They provide such great opportunities like NLS Legal, workshops and great networking experiences.

Why did you choose to study law?

Once I started looking into the course at NTU with the admirable achievements and reviews of Nottingham Law School, Law was everything I aspired to learn. From a variety of modules to the competitive aspects of the course.

What have you enjoyed about your course?

What I am enjoying the most is the opportunity of completing a dissertation. This allows me to explore independently a specific area of law which is a superb way to showcase research skills.

What marks out of 10 would you give for course facilities and why?

10 out of 10. I was lucky enough to have roughly 2 years of University with the ability to explore the City campus. There is a great space for studying in all of the buildings, even when it gets busy!

How would you promote NTU to potential students in 10 words or fewer?

A great community and welcoming environment to study.

What’s next for you after NTU?

This is something I was unsure about. However, with the support of staff at NTU I was able to plan some options that gave me confidence despite the uncertainty we currently face due to the pandemic. My most preferred option for next year is to continue searching for a training contract while pursuing a Master Degree; likely to be at NTU.

Has the employability team helped you plan for live beyond NTU?

Throughout this ambiguous year, the employability team has been interactive and always open for students. Their emails for postgraduate plans are always appreciated and very helpful.