Scott Preswick

Are you working while studying?

I work two days a week as a Paralegal at a commercial law firm, working in the pro bono group. I also work for the UTS Business School as a student promotional representative.

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

As a paralegal, my job is very much related to my studies. It involves conducting legal research, file administration, and attending a free legal clinic alongside lawyers. The skills I have learned through my degree have proved very useful in terms of conducting legal research at work, as well as the organization skills and the ability to complete work with consideration of deadlines.

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

To manage my university and work commitments, I have found time management and the ability to prioritise to be critical. When I have multiple assessments due on top of regular work commitments, I can only manage by keeping organised. At the beginning of semester, I insert all due dates and exams into my calendar, so that I am aware of when I should be starting study or assessment preparation. I am also lucky in that my work is flexible when I have class, exams, or assessments due. With notice, my employer is understanding, and I am able to shift my days around.  

What led you to choose UTS Law for your studies?

I was interested in studying at UTS as I knew the Law degree had a practical and modern curriculum, and a strong reputation in the profession. I was primarily concerned with enrolling in a Law degree that would provide me with a strong grounding in the practical aspects of law, so that I could enter the profession confident in my abilities. After attending Open Day and meeting UTS Law academics, staff and students, I was impressed with the friendliness of the Faculty and student body, which confirmed my decision.

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

I have found competing in Mooting competitions to be the most rewarding aspect of my degree. Mooting involves working as a team to conduct legal research, develop written submissions, and ultimately deliver them orally in front of a judge, who will interrogate your legal arguments. It is quite demanding and challenging to compete on top of class and work, but I have found it to be incredibly rewarding. I have particularly enjoyed the intellectually rigorous task of closely scrutinizing and analysing case law and legislation, in areas of law that may be unresolved or ripe for reform.

Where would you like your degree to take your career?

Ideally, I am interested in practicing as a solicitor in commercial law after graduating. I am attracted to work in commercial law as it is relatively broad in terms of the areas of law involved, and would provide the opportunity to develop a range of skills before specialising. Ultimately, I would like to work in an environment where I can apply my skills in problem solving, analysis and critical thinking,

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 heavily involved in extra curricular activities during my time at UTS. I have participated in numerous competitions, (including client interviewing, negotiation, and mooting), the Brennan Program, as well as mentoring and other educational programs offered by the Law Students’ Society. I was also on the executive of the Law Students’ Society for three years. Through these experiences I have developed my professional network, strengthened my communication skills, and refined my critical thinking ability. By participating in extra curricular activities while studying, I have been able to get the most out of my time at university, and have been lucky enough to make lifelong friends along the way. 

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

I would recommend they enroll! Attending an Open Day and talking to past or previous UTS Law students, as well as members of Faculty, is a good way to gauge your interest in studying at UTS. I have found studying law at UTS to be a fascinating and engaging experience. If you think you would like interactive classes, a practical and modern curriculum, with a strong reputation in the profession, I think you would enjoy UTS Law too.