Today’s interview is with Phornnapat Vutthithaveepat, a foreign law intern working with Foreign Law Specialist Sayuri Umeda in the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress.
Describe your background.
My name is Phornnapat Vutthithaveepat, but most people call me Tanoy. I am a Thai-qualified lawyer, born and raised in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. I have one older sibling, so I am the youngest in my family.
What is your academic/professional history?
I graduated with an LL.B. in business law (international program) from Thammasat University, Thailand, in 2017, and was admitted to the Thai Bar Association in 2020. After completing my undergraduate degree, I worked as a capital markets and transactional associate at a UK-based law firm, where I focused on cross-border public and private mergers and acquisitions as well as debt and equity capital markets transactions. After several years of practice, I wanted to deepen my expertise in business law, so I pursued my studies further in the United States and recently completed an LL.M. in corporate law at New York University School of Law (NYU) in May 2025.
How do you describe your job to other people?
As a foreign law intern in the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress, I work under the supervision of Sayuri Umeda. My responsibilities include researching and analyzing the legal framework of Thailand and other Asian countries in response to inquiries from Library of Congress patrons. In addition, I contribute to the Global Legal Monitor by writing articles on new laws, regulations, and other relevant legal developments for a global audience.
Why did you want to work at the Library of Congress?
Working at the Library of Congress has strengthened my research skills in international law, as I have conducted research on legal questions across different jurisdictions. This opportunity has not only broadened my understanding of legal frameworks but also helped me develop stronger writing and communication skills. In addition, it has given me the chance to network with wonderful colleagues.
What is the most interesting fact that you’ve learned about the Library?
The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library, with extensive collections of legal resources, including rare books and materials from jurisdictions around the world. I was truly fascinated by its scale and feel grateful for the opportunity to work here.
What’s something most of your co-workers do not know about you?
I love traveling to experience different cultures and meet new people. My favorite hobby is watching all kinds of sports, even though I do not know how to play them.
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