Congratulations on receiving the Postgraduate Medal for Academic Excellence. What does this recognition mean to you? 

I feel extremely honoured to receive the Postgraduate Medal for Academic Excellence. The recognition confirms my decision to move to Canberra and pursue the Juris Doctor was the right decision. Receiving the Medal reflects how much I enjoyed studying law and my time at ANU Law School. The recognition also means I gave the last four years everything I could, and while my mum is not here to share the recognition with me, I know I’ve made her proud. 

Why did you choose to study at ANU?

I chose to study at ANU because of its unique focus on public law and international law. The range of electives offered at both the undergraduate and postgraduate level stood out from the electives offered at other universities. I was also attracted to the opportunity to study law while living in the city at the heart of Australian politics and to gain access to unparalleled work opportunities.

What have been some of your highlights studying at the ANU Law School?

One of the highlights studying at ANU Law School was meeting my fellow students. The Juris Doctor attracts people from incredibly diverse backgrounds, and it was rewarding learning about the different paths that each person took to end up at ANU Law School. The different perspectives, among both students and staff, enriched my experience and broadened my understanding of the way the law operates to affect people differently.

Another highlight was the student placement I completed at Canberra Community Law. The capstone course requirement is an invaluable part of the degree at ANU, and it is a great opportunity to gain practical experience. 

Have there been any academics who were particularly influential to you throughout your law studies? 

I was very fortunate to learn from many amazing academics over the past four years, but Associate Professor Ryan Goss and Honorary Lecturer Kieran Pender are two that stand out. Ryan Goss was the course convener for Australian Public Law in the first year of my degree and Kieran Pender was the course convener for Labour Law in the fourth and final year of my degree. It was clear that both academics are extremely passionate about the area of law they teach, and they put great effort into ensuring students got the most out of their courses. 

Have there been any challenging moments? How did you overcome these? 

At the start of my second year, my mum passed away from cancer. It was the most challenging time of my life, but the ANU Law School staff were extremely supportive (a special shout out to Nicole King), and the flexibility of the degree allowed me to drop my course load and turn my three-year degree into a four-year degree. Despite not being able to control when or how life happens, the support I received from the staff and my fellow students gave me the energy and the courage I needed to keep going.

What is your best advice for prospective law students? 

Enjoy the journey! Being a student is fun and it may be the last degree you decide to pursue. If you’re interested in getting involved outside of class, whether it’s participating in a mooting competition, applying for an internship, or going to Friday night drinks with your fellow students, go for it! If you prefer to direct all your energy into your classes instead of extracurricular activities, that is completely fine too. It is an incredible privilege to be able to dedicate years of our life to learning at one of Australia’s top universities, so make the most of those years.  

What is next for you beyond graduation? 

I will be working as a graduate lawyer at the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office in Melbourne. While my time in Canberra has come to an end, I am still enjoying exploring the opportunities the public service has to offer.