Gemma Sentance

Bachelor of Laws

Deciding whether or not to go to university straight after high school was a big deal for Gemma Sentance, but from the moment she accepted her offer from UTS, she knew it was the best choice she’d ever made.

‘UTS offered a straight undergraduate law degree instead of a combined degree, which was extremely appealing to me. UTS is also a very comfortable and fun university. It caters to everyone and offers a great environment where students can flourish and reach their maximum potential. At UTS, they always put students first.’

Gemma’s favourite subject is Indigenous People and the Law. ‘The subject educates non-Indigenous people about the legal issues Indigenous people face. Our lecturer provides an open environment where everyone has the opportunity to speak honestly and develop new ideas.’

In the future, Gemma intends to honour her passion for Indigenous legal issues by helping young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are caught up in the legal system. She would also like to lecture or write a book about Indigenous young and the law.

Gemma’s most memorable experience at UTS was when she was awarded the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Law at the Jumbunna Annual Student Awards Night.‘This was a great experience for students and staff to come together to celebrate Indigenous academic excellence and success. I really feel that UTS has given me the opportunity to study what I love and find my passion.’

Gemma also plays a number of sports for UTS including touch football and Oz Tag and was a proud member of the UTS team for the National Indigenous Games. ‘The Indigenous Games was a great experience. Indigenous students around Australia got the chance to meet, learn new skills, network and of course, play some great sport.’

Gemma’s advice to new students: ‘Studying at university is the first step in your career and you should seize every opportunity presented to you. Have fun, get involved as much as you can, enjoy uni life!’