Ashleigh Best
I was drawn to the welcoming and progressive environment that characterised UTS
Are you working while studying?
I have been employed part-time in various jobs throughout my studies. Currently, I am a paralegal at Allens, having completed a clerkship at the firm over the summer of 2014-2015. Additionally, I have worked as a UTS Law Research Assistant for two academic members of staff and as a legal assistant to barristers.
What does your job involve? Is it related to your degree?
In my paralegal position, I am assigned to assist a team of Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution lawyers. As a major part of this role, I conduct legal research on issues relevant to a particular piece of litigation, which involves consulting cases, legislation and secondary materials. I then draft memoranda of my findings in a form most convenient for the lawyers to read. At times, I am required to undertake non-legal tasks, for example, analysing company data and monitoring media activity. This position has enabled me to apply the skills I have acquired at law school, particularly in terms of effectively researching legal databases, understanding regulatory frameworks, synthesising case law and writing in plain language.
What led you to choose UTS:Law for your studies?
I attended the UTS Open Day in August 2010, just as I was finishing my HSC, and was drawn to the welcoming and progressive environment that characterised UTS. The idea of a practice-oriented legal education appealed to me, as did the fact that the law school manages to be both relatively young and well established. I was also aware of UTS:Law’s reputation in the market and its impressive mooting program. The degree I am currently studying was accordingly my first preference, and I was thrilled to be offered a place to study at UTS:Law.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Why?
Studying law at UTS has presented me with a range of intellectual challenges, which have shaped my thought processes and the methods of analysis I rely upon. I have learned to critically evaluate not only legal problems, but government policies, social issues and my own practices. My understanding of justice has also been refined throughout my studies. In my third semester of law, I developed a deep concern for animal protection issues. I feel empowered by UTS:Law to have a successful career as a solicitor, barrister or academic, and to join a growing group of lawyers using their practice and skills to effect improvements to the legal protections afforded to animals.
Are you involved in extra-curricular activities such as the Mentoring program, Brennan program, Mooting, LSS? How has this experience aided your career/personal development?
I have been fortunate to participate in a number of extracurricular activities throughout my time at UTS:Law. In February 2015, I represented UTS at the Philip C Jessup International Law Moot Court, which was a demanding and rewarding experience. I also had the opportunity to moot in the Federal Court of Australia in July 2015 in the Red Cross International Humanitarian Law Moot at the ALSA Conference. Mooting has provided me with skills in advocacy, legal analysis and writing submissions for court. I have also participated in the High Achievers Mentoring Program, where I was paired with Richard Potok, director of the Aurora Project. My mentor encouraged me to be confident in my skills and to aim for the best possible results in my studies. In addition to these activities, I was a law student representative on the UTS Faculty Board in Law in 2012-2013 and the UTS Academic Board in 2015. My tenure within these organisations has improved my confidence and leadership skills, which will be useful as I embark on a career in law.
What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS?
I would most certainly encourage them to apply to UTS:Law. It is an academically rigorous institution, staffed by passionate academics with an interest in their students’ education and attended by welcoming and friendly students. The academic, professional, social and personal opportunities at UTS:Law are extensive.
