Jamesina McLeod

Which high school did you attend? James Ruse Agricultural High School, Carlingford

Which degree are you studying? What year are you in? 4th year, Bachelor of Communications (Journalism)/Bachelor of Laws

What led you to choose UTS for your studies in Law? I had heard about how practical the course was compared to some of the other universities in the Sydney area – something I have found over the past 4 years to be true.

How have your studies at UTS helped you in finding a career path? My studies in both journalism and law have been instrumental in helping me discern possible careers. Many of our lecturers and tutors have led and currently lead colourful, distinguished careers as practitioners. As such, they are able to bring an extra dimension to legal concepts by way of analogies which they draw from their own experiences. I have also gained immensely enriching experiences from participating in different legal skills competitions the Faculty of Law and Law Students' Society run – particularly mooting. Such competitions are a great, social way to put what you're learning into practice.

Are you working while studying? How do you manage the competing demands of university and work? I've worked casually and completed a number of internships throughout my degree. UTS’ subject timetabling is very flexible. As a result, it's not too much of a headache to arrange my classes so as to give myself opportunities to work during the week. If possible, I'd recommend trying to get paid work in the field of your degree – it extends your learning and ensures the contrast between work and study is much less pronounced.

What sets UTS students apart in your field? The students who I've met who have gone on to excel at law have always been down to earth, social and focused. They tend to have a plan, a great work ethic, and a desire to participate in the many extracurricular programs UTS has to offer. Moreover, they appreciate the value of networking as much as academic excellence.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Why? The idea that I can eventually impact society in a positive way. Studying law is giving me the skills and knowledge to observe and understand inequities and resolve problems while giving others recourse to do the same.

What sort of work do you hope to be doing after you graduate? While I am still undecided, I know my career will definitely be law-based. If I obtain a graduate position, I may start off at a commercial firm to gain experience and contacts and then move to the Bar after a few years.

What is the most useful thing you have learned from your degree so far? How to research and how to think. How to be methodical and how to communicate complex ideas simply. It's a lifelong asset. 

Has anyone in particular at the University had a significant influence on your studies? I've had a couple of tutors who have really turned around the pre-conceptions I had about less dramatic sounding subjects. A great tutor engages their students and their interest in their subject area is infective. 

What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS? Talk to people – current students, graduates, practitioners. Think about what you want out of your holistic university experience – whether you want to go on exchange, do a certain elective, join clubs, combine with another degree, or do your PLT – and then see whether that aligns with what UTS can offer you. Chances are UTS will have what you're looking for.