JD Student Profile: Ananya Bhargava
CBL Assistant
Jul 10, 2024
Why did you decide to pursue the Business Law Concentration program?
I entered law school with a literature background and vague notions about what legal education would look like. Initially, I anticipated my interest would lie in constitutional law, given my enjoyment of philosophy courses that examined concepts of individual rights and state power. But I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked contracts and property and how applicable they were to everyday life. Enrolling in the Concentration was a no-brainer for me because the courses I would have pursued in 2L and 3L were either required by or offered as electives in the Concentration.
What are some of the highlights of the Business Law Concentration for you?
The insolvency courses I took with Professor Aminollah Sabzevari, trust law with Professor Dennis Pavlich and of course, the Capstone were some highlights of the Concentration for me. One of the most valuable aspects of the Concentration was finding excellent mentors who provided invaluable guidance throughout my studies.
What was your experience in the Business Law Capstone like?
Participating in the Capstone was the perfect way to end my JD journey. The Capstone effectively bridged the theoretical knowledge I gained through the Concentration with practical application. Learning about M&A from M&A lawyers at Bennett Jones was an unparalleled experience. The Capstone also gave me insight into the roles of different legal professionals, like tax lawyers, in a M&A transaction and taught me the nuts and bolts of drafting and due diligence. Working with in-house counsel from Wheaton taught me a lot of client management in a corporate context and the expertise corporate lawyers can offer to in-house counsel. I had zero knowledge about mining before taking the Capstone and now I can proudly say that I know more about mining than I did before!
How do you think the program helps prepare students to work in business law?
The business law courses taught me foundational legal concepts, which you encounter not just in corporate law but everywhere. Knowing the basics about securities regulation or tax gives you a leg up in practice as you are able to learn faster and feel more comfortable with complex tasks. I would also add that the Concentration not only prepares students for careers directly in business law but also equips them with transferable skills and knowledge that enhance their capabilities in various legal fields. I am articling at a civil litigation firm and I frequently encounter and apply concepts I learned from business law courses. I am also more comfortable with complex litigation after studying complex cases in courses like tax and insolvency.
Published Summer 2024
- Centre for Business Law
