Nicholas Koutsoukos

What led you to choose UTS:Law for your studies? 
A balance of reputation, course structure and location; UTS:Law is a highly regarded school, with great faculty experience and offering flexibility of delivery, suitable if you have professional commitments. Add to that the school's convenient CBD location and it was a compelling choice.

If you are working while you are studying, what does your job involve? 
I work as a professional in banking, managing corporate and structured finance across Sydney and Melbourne. It's kind of a diverse and sometimes demanding role that requires financial and risk management, maintaining business relationships, and engaging with a range of stakeholders across a variety of industries.     

How do you balance study and work commitments? 
It can be challenging, but for me the key is to make a real effort to plan your time, commit to your plan, and evaluate. It's probably the last one that most people forget - time management is a learning process and you have to continually reconsider what's working for you. it's also important to remember that the key to balancing work and study is fitting a life somewhere in-between!  

How have/will your studies at UTS contributed to your career? How have they informed the way you work? 
In studying a Juris Doctor you hear a whole lot of debate whether a law degree is generalist or vocational. For me it's clearly both; Law is universal and the methods, disciplines and knowledge required in my study really can be applied to most professions - It has already been a tremendous boost to my current career. Further, my study has opened up a whole range of new prospects and paths, both inside and outside of law.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Why?
The greatest reward is the personal development that further study brings. Whilst I have gained technical and theoretical knowledge, I have also been genuinely moved by the social aspects of the course such as the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program. This has allowed for more rounded and reflective development, and a much broader perspective to a career.   

What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS? 
Make the step! You will be impressed by the depth and availability of the faculty, off and on-campus delivery, and the support and connections you will make with a diverse student body.   

Is there anything else you'd like to add about your experience at UTS:Law, or the University as a whole? 
I have been very pleased with my choice to study at UTS:Law, both the school and broader university continue to impress. It is a progressive institution with a bright future.