What is your advice for younger students of St Andrews Lutheran College?
My biggest piece of advice would be not to worry if you don't have it all figured out. I can remember feeling overwhelmed by the number of decisions I had to make, particularly towards the end of secondary school, and feeling worried that I didn't have it all figured out. But the truth is, whilst some people have a clear picture of what they want to do with their career, most don't - and that's ok. School is a time to explore different interests and discover passions and it is important to go through this discovery phase without too much pressure or expectation.
What were your favourite classes?
That's a hard one. It would probably have to be a tie between English, Legal Studies and Modern History. I always found myself more drawn to the Arts and Humanities subjects than the STEM subjects. That’s the great thing about being able to choose electives in Secondary School because it gives you a chance to follow your interests and tailor your learning. I would encourage you to really take advantage of this opportunity and choose your electives carefully. You never know, it may just lead you to your career path!
Could you describe one of your typical work days?
I currently work for a barrister in Brisbane whilst completing my Practical Legal Training, which is a course you undertake after completing a law degree in order to be admitted as a lawyer. The barrister I work for is also an accredited mediator and his practice largely revolves around conducting mediations. A mediation is when the parties to a dispute decide, or are ordered by the court to meet and discuss their disagreements and try to come to a resolution.
A typical day for me includes drafting legal documents, arranging mediations, liaising with solicitors and court personnel and preparing the occasional brief.