Caroline McDonald

What led you to choose UTS:Law for your postgraduate studies? I wanted a unique qualification which would set me apart from others in my professional background of human resources.  My Masters of Dispute Resolution was certainly that – it has opened many doors and opportunities for me since.

What does your job involve? I am a management consultant in the IT industry.  I specialise in learning and change management. 

How have your studies at UTS contributed to your career? How have they informed the way you work? I had no sooner commenced the Masters of Dispute Resolution before I was offered a job working in an HR/industrial relations role.  I work with clients every day and experience many of the challenges I learned to address while completing my Masters, such as negotiations and collaborating with people to reach win-win outcomes. Demonstrating to my employer that I have been able to accomplish a Masters part-time has been invaluable in showing them how motivated I am to learn new things, apply myself any give back what I have learnt back to my work environment.

What sets UTS graduates apart in your field? For me, it’s the strong link which exists between UTS and the legal profession. I attended a technology university in Ireland when completing my degree and learned the most from those who had professional experience.

What was the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Getting to do something I loved but so far hadn’t found the opportunity to obtain a qualification in.

What is the most useful or important thing you learned from your studies at UTS? There are so many sources of information out there now it can be difficult to break it down, so I used the opportunity to work on my research skills throughout my studies at UTS.

Was there anyone in particular at the University who had a significant influence on your studies? My course coordinator Marilyn Scott.  She possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience.  I always felt that I could explore many new areas of Dispute Resolution studies with her advice and full support.

What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS? Consider not just what subjects are covered and how long it will take to complete the degree but also the support structure provided by the University, such as library facilities, student centre, availability of lecturers, etc.

Do you intend to maintain a relationship with or continue your involvement with UTS after graduating? I have enjoyed my time at UTS and want to develop what I have learnt there.  I am now working with my course coordinator and together we have formed a Dispute Resolution Alumni group.  I will be working with her to organise networking events for current and past students so we can all keep in contact, network professionally and learn from one another.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experience at UTS:Law, or the University as a whole? The students I met and the friends I made at UTS really enriched my experience at the University.

Find out more about our Master of Dispute Resolution program at our information evening.