Caroline — Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Law
Why did you choose to study law?
I chose a double degree for the flexibility and the complementary nature of law and commerce. I also chose my specific degree as it didn’t include a major, which I found appealing given I was so uncertain as to what I wanted to study after I finished Year 12.
What is the best thing about your course?
The best academic element of my course was the way I was taught to think. A law degree teaches you to think abstractly, to consider alternatives, to argue facts and to reason. I was also fortunate enough to study in China and Denmark as part of my degree. These experiences pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to learn new languages, experience cultural differences and meet some pretty amazing people.
What is the worst thing about your course?
I would have to say that the worst part of my course is the duration. My double degree is five years in length, but because I deferred a semester of study to travel after my exchange program, I am now in my sixth year of study. When I started my degree I had no idea how long five years really was!
What does your course involve?
In the first two years of law, units usually involved lectures and a tutorial. Assessment has included everything from research essays to case analysis, problem solving tasks and practical application. I have also been required to obtain work experience, which I had to seek out independently, and have had to complete a compulsory practical legal assessment unit that aims to show students the practical aspects of applying the law and develop oral and written skills.
What are your job prospects after graduating?
I am hopeful that I will find work in the legal sector upon graduation. I am currently completing work placement in a law firm, which I may continue after my course. The legal sector is quite large and, given the competitive nature of law, it may be difficult to find the perfect role straight away.
What advice would you give to students considering studying law?
I wish that someone had told me how much reading would be involved in studying law! I devote a substantial amount of time per week to study. This time-balancing act was quite difficult to adjust to when I started my course, but time management becomes a skill that any university student has to learn. I would also advise potential law students to actively seek out work experience, research other opportunities such as student exchange or volunteer programs, and be active in their communities and society.
Will you complete further study?
To be admitted as a solicitor in Victoria, law graduates must either complete a traineeship under the supervision of an Australian legal practitioner or complete a practical legal training course. So, depending on my ability to secure a traineeship after my graduation, I may be undertaking further study for admission.
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