Sarah Scully-Leaf
My degree at UTS has already given a kick start to my career.
How do you manage the competing demands of university and work?
Time management and planning! At the start of each semester I diarise key dates (both for assessments, work commitments and personal commitments). At the start of every week I then write a planner of what I need to do that week to get everything done. If i finish early, I use that time and spend it with friends and family, or having time to myself. I have found a much better study/work/life balance that way.
What led you to choose UTS Law for your studies?
I actually transferred from another university because I liked the broad array of subjects that were offered for all areas of the law (not just business or humanitarian focused subjects)
What is the most rewarding aspect of your degree? Why?
The learning environment - both the quality of teaching and students has been exceptionally conductive to my learning and progressing forwards.
Where would you like your degree to take your career?
I start work with a commercial law firm in early 2017 - so my degree at UTS has already given a kick start to my career.
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 involved with the UTS Mentoring program since late 2015. Most of my extra-curriculars have largely been outside of university (such as sport, and running my own business). This has definitely been a resume boost, but I actually just really enjoyed having hobbies that weren't uni or work focused.
What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Law at UTS?
Never see your peers as your competition, but people who can help and support you through a long (and tiring) degree. Plan your time accordingly, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and continue to ask for feedback no matter how far into your degree you are.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experience at UTS Law, or the University as a whole?
Find what study habits work for you, and not anyone else. For example, I prefer listening to lectures at home where I don't have distractions and can pause the lecture whenever I need to. Other people may easily fall behind if they don't attend weekly lectures on campus. Try a variety of different ways to do something, and see what works.
