By Nathan Wong | 17 November 2023
Most of us recall our first year as being one of confusion, fear of the unknown and an introduction to new experiences and expectations. By the time we get to our second and third year, we think to ourselves “well, this isn’t too bad, if only I knew all these things in first year” That’s why it’s good to get an idea of what to expect during your studies and how to prepare for a career in law after you graduate.
1st and 2nd Year Law Students
Students in their early stages of their law degree should especially prioritise their studies over gaining legal work experience. Don’t wait until the end of your degree to become involved in extra curricular activities. Mooting and positions on the Law Student Societies provide excellent practical experiences.
3rd Year Law Students
Students in the middle of their degree should take advantage of opportunities to network with students from other universities, alumni and members of the profession to develop an idea of what areas of law they may want to practice.
Penultimate and
Final Year Law Students
Students in their penultimate or final year should seek clerking opportunities with solicitor or barristers. This will enable you to place in a real-world context the theory learnt and the research skills developed in your earlier student years. It may also provide contacts and networking within the profession and give you a greater understanding of the relevance of your studies.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t go to class
and go home!
Uni shouldn’t be a place where you can come to learn and then go home. Stick around, go have lunch, attend an event or just chill.
2. Don’t leave
assignments to the last minute
Whilst this may have worked for you in high school, Uni is a different ball game. You might have 3 or 4 essays all due at once and leaving them to the last day will leave you stressed and vulnerable. Begin assignments way ahead of time to avoid mental breakdowns – yes , they do happen!
3. Don’t stress,
everything can be fixed
If you receive a mark that’s lower than expected or you just don’t think you’ll get that assignment done on time, don’t stress - everything has a resolution. Lecturers are there for a reason so book an appointment and they’ll talk you through what you can do.
Do’s:
1. Take time out
and have fun
It’s okay to relax and let your hair down once in a while. That assignment will get done, that chapter will be read, as long as you manage your time effectively you should be able to find time for yourself.
2. Get involved
Getting involved in Uni life is one of the best tings you can do to get the most out of your Uni experience. This can be through competitions, clubs or even attending events organised by the Uni or Law Student Society. This will allow you to relax, have fund and is a great opportunity for networking.
3. Read your textbook
and make notes!
Whilst they may look like a brick and feel like you could do weights with them, they’re an asset and an essential part of your learning experience. If you don’t take time out in week one to sit down, read the relevant sections and make notes you’ll fall behind very quickly ad by mid semester you’ll find yourself overwhelmed with information you should’ve known in week one.
General advice
Strive to develop a
deeper knowledge of your legal studies than merely what the textbook provides.
Effective legal skills re crucial in this
profession. Strong interpersonal skills are essential. People often come
to lawyers at their lowest point, and therefore legal professionals must remain
sensitive to the needs of each client, despite having seen hundreds of similar
cases before.
Nathan Wong is a 3rd year law student studying a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Business at the University of New England (UNE).