Competing against teams from India, the Czech Republic, and Lebanon exposed me to diverse negotiation styles and legal perspectives, broadening my understanding of mediation in different jurisdictions. Placing 15th out of 48 teams in our first competition was a testament to the dedication and effort my partner, Jolene, and I invested in our preparation. 

This competition provided a practical application of the theoretical concepts I study in law and politics. This competition allowed me to engage in real-time problem-solving, negotiation, and client representation. Acting as a client, I had to think strategically, communicate my interests clearly, and collaborate with my legal counsel to develop solutions. The experience reinforced the importance of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in legal practice and its growing role in resolving international conflicts efficiently. Furthermore, the cultural awareness that we were able to develop was very beneficial, as it was interesting to see the different techniques employed by the various countries in tackling negotiation and collaborative work.  

Also, this competition significantly enhanced my negotiation, advocacy, and critical thinking skills. Working alongside professional mediators was particularly valuable, as their guidance provided insights into how to move negotiations forward constructively. They demonstrated how to balance assertiveness with cooperation, ensuring all parties felt heard while achieving beneficial outcomes. The feedback from expert judges also helped refine my approach, improving my communication techniques, strategic thinking, and adaptability under pressure. 

Additionally, the intensive preparation process strengthened my teamwork and resilience. My partner and I dedicated significant time to refining our negotiation strategies, ensuring we presented ourselves as a strong and cohesive team. We couldn’t have done this without the brilliant help of our coaches Lucy and Ven, and our teammate Anna, alongside the backing of the rest of the ADR committee.  Competing at such a high level, despite ADR at QUB being a student-led society, demonstrated our commitment and ability to perform under pressure. 

Beyond the competition itself, traveling to Paris independently was a valuable learning experience. Navigating the city, managing our schedule, and immersing ourselves in a different culture fostered independence and adaptability. Exploring Paris, from its historic landmarks to its vibrant atmosphere, broadened our cultural awareness, an essential skill in international negotiations. Understanding cultural nuances and communication styles played a key role in our mediation sessions, helping us adapt to different perspectives and negotiation techniques. 

This experience reinforced my passion for dispute resolution and provided tangible skills essential for my future career. As I aim to work in international dispute resolution, the competition gave me hands-on experience managing cross-border conflicts, understanding different negotiation styles, and adapting to diverse legal frameworks. The ability to think strategically, negotiate effectively, and facilitate productive discussions is crucial in legal, diplomatic, and commercial settings. 

Moreover, the networking opportunities at the competition allowed me to connect with professionals and students from around the world, expanding my global perspective and professional network. Engaging with industry experts provided deeper insights into career pathways in ADR and international law, further motivating me to pursue this field.