Sarah Loewy

ICS Destination: France (Rennes)

Why I chose UTS

Like many idealistic law students, I had dreamt of working for a large international organization like the United Nations or the International Court of Justice. What I soon discovered was that I would probably need to learn a second language and get some real international experience before I started looking for a graduate position.

When I was choosing a university, I did lots of research and discovered that UTS was the only university that had a mandatory study abroad year for International Studies students. For me, this was a big advantage as this is already built into your study plan, which the stress out of exchange.

I also liked that during the In-Country study year at your host university you are free to choose subjects from any faculty that relate to your chosen culture. This meant I had the opportunity to study subjects such as French cinema, art history and Renaissance architecture which I would never have been able to do if I had only studied law. I found this really broadened my understanding of the French culture and allowed me to meet French students.

How studying at UTS prepared me for your career

I believe having an understanding of a different culture and living overseas for a year gives you a real edge and point of difference over other graduating students.

When I came back from overseas, I was able to undertake an internship at a not-for-profit based at the Federal Court of Australia, funded by DFAT, which teaches and trains people who work in the law and justice sector in developing countries across the Asia-Pacific region. When I interviewed for the internship being able to discuss how I had managed cross-cultural challenges in my year abroad and how my overseas experience contributed to an international perspective I could bring to their organisation. I believe is what helped me stand out from other students.

I’m still currently in the final year of my degree, but I’ve already undertaken some significant work experience. I’m currently working as a Paralegal at an international law firm that has offices all over the world, and clients based all over the Asia Pacific region.

I also did an internship in the not-for-profit sector, which is something I would like to continue doing in the future. As a student, I am excited about the professional opportunities open to me upon graduation and I am still committed to pursuing my dream of working or interning at an international organisation like the United Nations or the International Court of Justice.

My exchange experience (and how it changed my life)

During my exchange, I lived in a city called Rennes, which is the capital of Brittany and in the northwest of France. I lived in a rickety old three-story mansion with six other French roommates next to the canal.

In-Country Study provides an amazing opportunity to open up your eyes to other cultures which you weren’t expecting. You also learn a lot about yourself: it might sound clichéd, but without your home, your friends, your family and your country, you really have to think about how you define yourself.

The success of your In-Country Study year is really self-driven and defined by the decisions you make. It’s both a liberating and very challenging experience.

My advice to students

The possibilities of what you can do with your international studies degree are truly endless and limited only by your imagination. Its up to you to drive and create a life and career, which excites and interests you.

Gaining employment upon graduation can be scary and really competitive, it is very hard to stand out from the crowd. However, drawing from the skills an International Studies degree provides can give you an edge over other students. For example, language skills, cross-cultural knowledge or international experience in general are extremely valuable skills, which can be used and adapted, in many different industries. Framing these skills and your experience in the right way can help you get the type of job you want.