Kathleen Collins

Are you working while studying?

Yes, I have worked part time (3-4 days a week) since commencing my degree in 2013. At the beginning of 2016, I transitioned to full time employment.

What does your job involve? Is it related to your degree?

I am an internal employment relations specialist within a disability services provider.  I lead and undertake workplace investigations, disciplinary and grievance procedures and engage with stakeholders on employee relations matters (including third parties such as trade unions).

How do you manage the competing demands of university and work?

I won’t say it is easy.  I am a single parent to two children aged 9 and 7 and occasionally the “wheels fall off” around the time assessments are due or exam period.  That said, my children are immensely proud and supportive of their mother in pursuing legal studies.  I aim to achieve an overall balance with any semester where myself and my family eat well, exercise, take time out to have fun with friends and family but also fulfil school and university responsibilities.  I am far more disciplined that what I was when I undertook my Bachelor of Business through UTS as a school leaver.

What led you to choose UTS Law for your studies?

I completed my Bachelor of Business with UTS so I had first-hand experience of the timetable flexibility and what the university offers.  I was also aware of the strong seminar based learning experience which I found personally rewarding.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Why?

As a mature aged student, I thoroughly enjoy meeting students with different perspectives, interests and generational or cultural values.  I find the emphasis on life-long learning as a graduate attribute incredibly valuable and have benefited immensely from applying the written analytical skills to my work environment.

What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS?

Law is a demanding study irrespective of the particular university.  Understanding what motivates you, gives you a sense of purpose and keeps you refreshed and engaged is important for success and mental health over the life of a law degree.  Even as a part time student, I love the friendships I have made, the text messages at midnight asking “have I understood this essay question? Am I over-analysing what is required here?” and student solidarity after a tough 3 hour final exam. My advice would be, don’t do it alone – be prepared to put yourself out there to meet some like-minded and potentially life-long friends and colleagues.        

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experience at UTS Law, or the University as a whole?

I am grateful for the opportunity to return to UTS as a mature aged student in the undergraduate Bachelor of Laws program.  The learning strategies allow for a sharing of experiences and perspectives via class participation which adds to overall learning. The timetables allow immense flexibility to combine work commitments with study workload.