Priyankaa Tikoo

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Department of Justice Canada

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

Since graduating from Exeter, I returned to Canada to complete my bar admission requirements and qualified as a criminal defence lawyer. I have always been drawn to public service and to organizations that have a direct impact on people’s daily life. Practicing criminal law provided invaluable experience in access to justice, advocacy (oral and written), and navigating complex legal issues, while reinforcing the importance of empathy, resilience, and sound judgment.

Continuing to work within the public sector, I have since transitioned roles and I now serve as Legal Counsel with the Department of Justice Canada in the National Litigation Sector. In this role, I provide civil litigation and advisory services across portfolios, specializing in litigation, administrative, and business regulatory matters. I find the work both fulfilling and deeply rewarding, as it allows me to contribute to issues that have a meaningful impact on the public interest and the administration of justice.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

During my time at Exeter, I was an active member of the University of Exeter Law Society (formerly the Bracton Law Society) and the Canadian Law Students Society.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

What I treasure most about my time at Exeter is the warm people I met. I was fortunate to form lifelong friendships and become part of a welcoming and supportive community as an international student.

I also greatly value the quality of my legal education, the engaging academic environment, and the opportunity to learn from exceptional faculty and classmates from around the world. Combined with Exeter’s beautiful campus and vibrant city, these experiences made my time there both academically and personally enriching. Looking back, my time at Exeter was a chapter in my life that laid the foundation for my career in law and it will always hold a special place in my heart.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

I would say that the most valuable skills in my career have been strong analytical thinking, clear and precise communication, and sound judgment under pressure. The ability to break down complex issues, identify key risks and priorities, and translate that analysis into practical, actionable advice has been essential in delivering meaningful outcomes.

In my opinion, equally important has been the ability to communicate effectively. In practice, this means being able to explain complex legal or technical concepts in a way that is straightforward, while still maintaining accuracy and professionalism. Listening carefully and understanding the needs of clients and colleagues has been just as important as articulating solutions.

Finally, I believe that consistent engagement in learning, whether through formal training, feedback from colleagues, or reflecting on day-to-day experiences has been critical. I have noted that the most significant growth I experienced has often come from stepping outside of comfort zones and taking on responsibilities slightly beyond what felt immediately comfortable at the time.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

A career in law is incredibly rewarding, but it is also demanding, so be prepared to work hard and remain adaptable. Focus on developing strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, but do not underestimate the importance of being respectful, considerate, and gracious.

Seek out opportunities through internships, mooting, volunteering, and networking, as these experiences will help you grow both personally and professionally. Stay curious, seek out mentors, and learn from every experience, even the challenging ones.

Most importantly, remember that careers rarely follow a straight path. Stay open to new opportunities, embrace testing times as opportunities to learn, and trust that each experience will contribute to your growth. The legal profession offers countless ways to make a meaningful difference, and with resilience and dedication, you can build a career that is both successful and fulfilling.

One quote I often return to comes from Billie Jean King that “pressure is a privilege.” It is a gentle reminder that the moments that test us most are often those that matter most.

Finally, no matter how late the night before was, or how rough the morning after feels, do your readings. It turns out your professors and tutors really do know what they are talking about.