Thomas Macken

Which high school did you attend? St. Ignatius' College, Riverview

Which degree are you studying? What year are you in? 2nd year, Bachelor of Communications (Media Arts and Production)/Bachelor of Laws

What led you to choose UTS for your studies in Law? I wanted to combine my Law degree with Communications. UTS had a good reputation in both faculties, and seemed to offer the best course for both.

What influenced your decision? A lot of the people I knew who were already at UTS were really friendly but also really bright and interesting. UTS seemed to offer both a positive learning environment and a distinctive social atmosphere, and that appealed to me.

How have your studies at UTS helped you in finding a career path? To be honest, I am still trying to work out which career path is suitable for me. However, UTS is really good at providing information about prospective employment options and possible career paths. They have a number of student-run initiatives that keep you in the loop and notify you via email or other means of any upcoming events, information nights, etc. that may interest you.

Are you working while studying? How do you manage the competing demands of university and work? I currently work part-time, about 12 hours a week. At times it can be difficult to manage the two but UTS is good at providing flexibility and helping you structure your timetable around your working commitments.

How has your learning experience at UTS prepared you for your career? The opportunity to meet and interact with such a range of people from all sorts of different backgrounds is quite a change from high school. It provides a really positive experience before you move into the workforce and embark on your post-university career.

What sets UTS students apart in your field? I find a lot of the students at UTS are committed to their studies and are very bright, but also maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. They apply themselves to their studies but also understand the importance of making time to go out socially, join a sporting club or volunteer at a local organisation.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Why? Meeting new people and developing new friendships. UTS has a very social atmosphere and the people all tend to be really friendly, outgoing and amiable. Going to lectures and tutorials is much more enjoyable when you can do it with a group of close friends.

What sort of work do you hope to be doing after you graduate? I'm still looking at different options but I’m currently considering human rights or international law. Ideally, I'd like to use my law degree to assist those who experience hardship or disadvantage and lack access to justice. 

What is the most useful thing you have learned from your degree so far? The importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Has anyone in particular at the University had a significant influence on your studies? I've found most of the lecturers and tutors I've come across to be really engaging and passionate about their given subject. They are always happy to stay back after a lecture or tutorial to discuss any questions you might have or any issues that need clarifying. As well as being passionate, they're really friendly and approachable people as well. 

What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS? Look at all the options and see which university course most suits your interests – however know that UTS offers a really interesting and enjoyable course. If you have an interest in the law and want to study in an environment that is both challenging and rewarding, UTS will be highly suitable. UTS is also particularly well-suited for those who want a really social experience at university. It's a great place to learn and meet new people.