Ayatalla Lewih

What led you to choose UTS: LAW for your studies?  UTS: Law is renowned for its practice-orientated focus. It ensures that law students not only graduate with a well-informed understanding of the law, but also that they are work ready. This is extremely beneficial as employers are attracted to graduates who can demonstrate that they are knowledgeable of the industry. The Law School at UTS also ensures students’ development through various programs. This includes the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program, which is unique to UTS: Law. The volunteer program promotes leadership, justice and a sense of service among students. UTS: Law is a vibrant and innovative law school which has achieved great success. In 2012, UTS: Law research was recognised by the Australian Government’s Excellence in Research as ‘above world standard’. UTS: Law continuously strives for excellence, growth, prosperity and success for all students.    

If you are working while you are studying, what does your job entail?  During my time at UTS, I have developed a great interest in social justice. I am currently working at Anti-Slavery Australia, based within the Faculty of Law at UTS. It is the only specialist legal service that deals with trafficking and slavery in Australia. I am the Volunteer Youth Advocates Co-ordinator. My role requires me to coordinate the Youth Advocates Program, a peer-to-peer program designed to raise awareness and education around the issues of forced marriage and forced labour. Throughout my time at Anti-Slavery Australia, I have been involved in the first religious leaders forum on forced marriage at NSW Parliament and I have also presented at seminars and workshops on forced marriage. I am also involved in Amnesty International’s NSW Legal Network as the Communications Officer. The Legal Network comprises of lawyers, law students and people interested in the law to raise awareness about human rights. As the Communications Officer, I ensure that our events are promoted effectively. I am also a paralegal at a Sydney law firm which has provided me with great experience in the field of law. From attending property settlements, to filing defences in the local court, I am continuously learning and growing.

How do you balance your work and study commitments?  UTS:Law provides immense support for its students when it comes to balancing work and study commitments. Not only are there flexible class times, but you can also adjust your study load to suit you. I have found that the key to balancing work and study is to be organised but also realistic. It’s important to not over commit yourself. It is all about finding a balance.

How have/will your studies at UTS contributed to your career? How have they informed the way you work? When I first began law school I was introduced to the graduate attributes. These are attributes that UTS: Law envisions that its student will achieve upon graduation. As I am currently in my fifth year of studies, these graduate attributes have already informed the way that I work. I have developed skills in legal knowledge, research, self-management, ethics and professional responsibility, communication and collaboration, and critical analysis and evaluation.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Why? The most rewarding aspect of my degree is seeing my continual improvement and growth as a law student and as a soon to be lawyer. UTS: Law really fosters growth among its students by providing a supportive and friendly environment to undertake your studies. I am particularly grateful to all the hard-working and dedicated academics that ensure that we are receiving excellent legal education.

What would your advice be for someone who is looking to studying law at UTS?  UTS: Law is a vibrant, friendly and supportive place to undertake your law degree. With a focus on ensuring that students are work-ready and providing excellent legal education, UTS: Law will provide you with all the tools to succeed in a legal career.