What is your degree? 

I recently completed a Master of Laws (LLM) specialising in International Law and Human Security.

Why did you choose to study law at ANU?

I chose to study law at ANU because of the broad range of courses on offer in international law and human security. I was eager to learn among those who are dedicated to making an impact in their respective fields and I felt I would be exposed to a broad range of perspectives, both from the lecturers as well as my peers.

In essence, I saw the LLM at ANU as providing the ideal opportunity to expand my legal knowledge and skills, progress my career, and ultimately, step into a role where I can make a difference by contributing to addressing pressing and interrelated issues, such as climate change and development, which affect us all in our modern world.

What have been some of the highlights studying law at ANU? 

During my LLM, I have thoroughly enjoyed attending classes with those from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, and learning from lecturers who were knowledgeable and passionate about their area of law. 

It was great to attend classes that were small in size, where in-class discussions and activities were actively encouraged, and where I could pursue research that deepened my knowledge on climate change, the environment, human rights and international humanitarian law, as well as on governance and Indigenous legal issues.

Are there any scholars who have been influential to you throughout your law studies? 

As mentioned above, I found the ANU Law lecturers to be passionate and eager to share their knowledge and expertise. All of my lecturers encouraged me to pursue research topics that were of interest to me, even when they could be challenging. I found their feedback to be invaluable and influential in guiding me to improve my writing and academic skills as a LLM student.

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

Having completed my undergraduate law studies in Auckland, New Zealand, the biggest challenge in undertaking my LLM was familiarising myself with the Australian legal system and the Australian Guide to Legal Citation, as well as refining my academic style of writing. 

I found the feedback from lecturers and those at the University’s Academic Skills department most helpful in identifying ways I could improve my writing in order to formulate a strong thesis for my research essays. I also found the academic advisors at the ANU College of Law a great help in discussing specialisations, course credits and other general queries.

What is your advice for prospective law students? 

I would encourage prospective students interested in studying law at ANU to take the leap and to pursue courses they are interested in, even those outside the area of law and/or policy most relevant to their work. In pursuing courses outside of environment and planning law, I was able to broaden my legal knowledge and appreciate how interrelated the various branches of law are, as well as learn how to tackle issues from this broader mindset.

What is next for you beyond graduation? 

Looking beyond graduation, I will continue to practise as an environment and planning lawyer in Auckland and applying the knowledge and skills I have acquired throughout my LLM. Going forward in my career, I have a particular interest in addressing environmental, climate change and development issues that impact Indigenous peoples worldwide.