Singapore Army Veteran and Drapers' Scholar Euan Davies Sets Course for London Post LL.M. Achievement
Euan Davies LL.M. ‘24 always knew he wanted to enroll in an LL.M. (Master of Laws) program after completing his undergraduate studies, but he hadn’t quite decided on the location yet. While attending Queen Mary University in London, Davies was presented with an opportunity that would change the trajectory of his life and legal career.
Having lived extensively in Singapore and London, Davies was accustomed to bustling city life but found solace in the serene pace and environment of Williamsburg, Virginia.
“The small community at the law school provides for a very encouraging and ‘homey’ environment that allows you to really get to know your peers that larger programs might not be able to provide,” Davies says.
Before pursuing a career in law, Davies served two years in the Singapore Army as a Combat Medical Sergeant. He then went on to earn a Bachelor of Law at Queen Mary.
During his final year, he learned about the Drapers Scholarship Program, and he was inspired to take the opportunity to learn about the American legal system.
Every year, William & Mary Law School appoints a recent graduate as the Drapers Scholar, selected from alumni who have completed their degrees within the past two years. The recipient of the Drapers Scholarship is granted the opportunity to pursue further studies in law.
This scholarship is made possible thanks to the support of the Drapers Company of London, a long-standing partner of William & Mary.
Under the guidance of Professor Neal Devins, Davies found Constitutional Law particularly captivating within the rich array of courses provided by the LL.M. curriculum at William & Mary. Embracing the challenge of larger class sizes and heightened student participation, Davies actively engaged in vibrant discussions, enriching himself in the dynamic learning environment.
“I have gained a significantly better understanding of the American legal system and its role within American Society,” Davies says. “I found most interesting, the contrast between the application of British law and American law despite having common foundations. The importance of law in society cannot be understated and I gained a huge appreciation of its impact on America and the wider influence of American law internationally.”
Outside of the classroom, Davies became a member of the International Competition Team (ICT), which gave him the opportunity to work closely with other William & Mary students while also gaining practical skills. One of his fondest memories as a member of the team is when he represented the law school at the Philip C. Jessup International Moot Court Competition in New Orleans. He enjoyed interacting with students and judges from law schools all over the United States.
Although Davies has successfully completed his mission, there were some challenges along the way to earning his LL.M. Initially, he experienced some difficulties learning how to adjust to a new academic and social environment. He had to quickly learn new social norms and adjust to the structure of the American education system while meeting the demands of rigorous coursework.
Davies says he found unwavering support from mentors, fellow students, and the law school administration.
“The law school has a great mentoring program, and J.D. students were always keen to learn and understand the various challenges that I was facing while in this new environment,” Davies says. “Dean [Brian] Wall, the head of Student Affairs, and Brenda Stone, the international programs facilitator, in particular, were always extremely helpful and contributed greatly to helping with any challenges that I faced during my time here.”
Davies highlights the development of interpersonal skills and adaptability as key takeaways from his time at William & Mary. This experience has broadened his perspective on law's role in society, emphasizing its impact both domestically and internationally.
As Davies prepares to take on new challenges in his career, he offers advice to other students who wish to pursue an LL.M. at William & Mary.
“I would advise prospective students to really seize the opportunity to work with J.D. students at every avenue,” he says. “The student body at the law school is an incredibly motivated and friendly group of individuals who will always go out of their way to assist their classmates in times of need. I learned a lot from the J.D. students, and my only regret is not having more time to meet more of them.”
After graduation, Davies plans to return to London to pursue training as a Commercial Barrister under the Lord Justice Holker Scholarship granted by Gray’s Inn.