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

31 Aug 2026

''This summer, I had the opportunity to attend the East China University of Political Science and Law (ECUPL) Immersion Summer School in Chinese Political and Legal Culture through a scholarship facilitated by the UCC School of Law. Spending four weeks studying in Shanghai was an unforgettable experience to develop my legal knowledge while immersing myself in Chinese culture.

The academic programme was engaging and diverse. Throughout the four weeks, we attended lectures delivered by ECUPL academics and guest lecturers covering topics including tax law, intellectual property law, Chinese legal culture and international trade law. Coming from an Irish legal education, it was interesting to examine how China's legal system has developed within its own historical, political and cultural context, while drawing comparisons with legal systems that were more familiar to many of us.

What stood out most was the interactive nature of the programme. Rather than being limited to traditional lectures, classes encouraged discussion and collaboration between students from a wide range of jurisdictions. Working alongside students from different backgrounds created an environment where everyone brought a different perspective to the conversation. These discussions often continued outside the classroom and became one of the most valuable aspects of the programme, demonstrating how much can be learned simply by exchanging ideas with others studying law around the world.

Alongside our legal studies, we also took introductory Mandarin classes. Learning the basics of the language was both enjoyable and practical, helping us engage more confidently with daily life in Shanghai while providing a greater appreciation of Chinese language and culture.

The programme also placed a strong emphasis on connecting legal theory with practice. Visits to ZHIHE PARTNERS and the Shanghai Financial Court provided valuable insight into the practical operation of the Chinese legal system and allowed us to see many of the concepts discussed in class in a professional setting.

One of my personal highlights of the programme was meeting ECUPL's debate team. Having previously served as Debate Convenor of the UCC Law Society, I enjoyed the opportunity to listen to students who shared an interest in debate and public speaking. It was a fun and memorable experience that reinforced the importance of advocacy in legal practice.

Outside the classroom, we were able to explore Shanghai and visit the historic city of Suzhou. Being able to experience China's rich history alongside one of the world's most modern cities complemented what we were learning throughout the programme and made the experience even more meaningful.

Looking back on my time in Shanghai, I think what I will value most is the opportunity to learn about a legal system by immersion in the culture that shapes it, while meeting people from all over the world and experiencing life in a completely different environment. The scholarship made this experience possible and is a great example of the opportunities UCC provides its students to learn beyond their usual surroundings. I am very grateful to the UCC School of Law, particularly Dr Henrietta Zeffert, for facilitating my participation, and to the East China University of Political Science and Law for their warm welcome throughout the programme. It is an experience that I will take with me into the next stage of my legal education and will look back on with great appreciation.''