Samuel Kennan

Which high school did you attend? St Patrick's College, Strathfield

Which degree are you studying? What year are you in? 5th year, Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws

What led you to choose UTS for your studies in Law? I had heard that UTS had a reputation for providing a practical course with a strong focus on setting students up for their careers after university. This really appealed to me. 

What influenced your decision? I'm a bit of a science nerd so I was very pleased to be able to get the chance to study both science and law. There is a lot of flexibility at UTS so that students can focus on multiple areas that interest them.

How have your studies at UTS helped you in finding a career path? In particular, through the Practical Legal Trainin (PLT) program I have had the opportunity to go out and work part-time in a law firm. This has helped me put my foot in the door of the profession and given me the opportunity to apply some of what I have learned at uni.

Are you working while studying? How do you manage the competing demands of university and work? As I work in a law firm I'm lucky enough to not have to work on weekends, unlike many other students. This frees up plenty of time to put my head down on the weekend and get my study and assignments done. I've also learned to use my breaks between classes more wisely. Earlier in my studies, when I was working in a bar, I found the best way to manage the work/study balance was to ensure I had enough sleep. This way, when I found a moment to study, I was mentally fresh and could produce my best work.

How has your learning experience at UTS prepared you for your career? As students we are put in positions which are similar to those faced by lawyers. A lot of the assessments revolve around solving legal problems and playing the part of a lawyer (mock court work, client interviews, etc). As a result, UTS graduates develop many of the basic skills required in the profession before ever leaving uni.

What sets UTS students apart in your field? The way law is taught at UTS is unique. It's not just lectures on cases and legislation. There are plenty of chances to work in groups, present to your peers (and staff and visiting practitioners) and at the end of the degree, to gain experience in what it is actually like to work in the legal profession. While this seems a bit daunting at first, it has been a massive confidence booster going into the working world. For UTS students, having this experience while at uni makes us stand out.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? The most rewarding thing for me has been my PLT, which I am completing at the moment. I can see all that I have learned coming together in assessments where I have to interview a client or ask for lenience from a magistrate or cross-examine a witness. It puts into perspective how much I have taken away from my studies.

What sort of work do you hope to be doing after you graduate? I'm hoping to be able to use both my law and science degrees. Intellectual property, environmental law and criminal law have been my favourite areas, so to work in one or more of those would be ideal.

What is the most useful thing you have learned from your degree so far? Time management is huge! If you can keep everything under control, you will be far happier and less stressed. Uni is the best time to learn this as you'll have work to do and multiple assessments to submit at once, all the while still finding time to go out and have a few drinks!

Has anyone in particular at the University had a significant influence on your studies? I think the friends I have made at uni have been a massive influence. It's so much more rewarding learning with other great people who can help you along the way.

What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS? Definitely give it a go! Even if you decide you don't want to be a lawyer, the skills you learn will put you in high demand with employers and will help you throughout your career. You'll also meet plenty of great people!

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experience at UTS:Law, or the University as a whole? UTS:Law has exceeded my expectations. I didn't study Legal Studies at high school but now I am passionate about the law and legal issues. I have also gained so many skills that have helped me move my career forward before I've even finished at uni.