Jesse Soria

Security and International Law MA

What has been the highlight of your course so far?

I chose to study Security and International Law because I wanted to develop skills that would enable me to analyse legal issues surrounding international conflict and security and the professors, all renowned experts in their fields, have challenged me every step of the way.

The University of Manchester also has an impressive global reputation and I'm confident that a degree from here will provide many opportunities for me in my field.

What do you most enjoy about studying here?

I enjoy the conversational style of teaching that experts in the field are able to provide. I also enjoy meeting people from around the world who are as driven and motivated to make an impact in the communities we serve. 

What has been the highlight of your course so far?

The highlight of my course has been an intense week-long module on International Nuclear Law. It was an interdisciplinary course in which the classroom consisted of 50% nuclear scientist PhD candidates and the other half of us were law students. We worked together to find solutions to contemporary issues, as we would in the outside world, and learned from each other.

We became so close in that one week that we still keep in touch. 

Have you been involved in any of the Law societies and events or other activity which complements your study? 

I have been involved with Amnesty International. I went to a human rights conference that they hosted at the University of Lancaster and coincidentally ran into someone from The University of Manchester. We exchanged information and we’ve been working hard to get the society up and running.

What aspects of your learning experience do you think will help in pursuing your future career?

My learning experience has been shaped by both my peers and my lecturers. My peers have very interesting backgrounds many of which tie into our current course. They have provided me with insight into the realities of work within international law.

My lecturers have exposed me to various schools of thought, which often conflict with each other, to maximize our knowledge and keep our minds open to other ideas.

Is there anything that you will take away with you that you could have only experienced at Manchester?

The University of Manchester Law School is truly an international school and I don't think I have ever been exposed to working with and befriending so many skilled, intelligent, and empowering people with different nationalities. It is an experience that has shaped how I interact with others and that I will cherish for years to come. 

What are your plans after graduation, and how do you feel studying at Manchester has prepared you for this?

I plan on working for an international organisation, either in my home state or perhaps elsewhere in the world.

I feel like my experiences whilst studying at The University of Manchester have instilled a confidence that encourages me to work with people of different disciplines, cultures, and backgrounds.

What advice would you give to new Law students at Manchester?

I would encourage new students to break out of their shell. Whether you're an international student or a domestic student, don't be afraid to talk to people around you. Everyone who is here has worked really hard to be here and the people you meet here will be the next generation's politicians, scholars, and lawyers.

This is a time for learning, networking, and building. The University has a lot to offer but you will only get from it what you put in.