Jeff Flanagan (USA/Australia)
The Melbourne JD/MBA offered me more than just a degree, it offered me the opportunity to gain knowledge in the legal field which is applicable to every business environment. The intellectual stimulation and analytical frameworks provided a distinct advantage over other courses. The Melbourne JD provided me with a life changing experience!
The intimacy with staff and students was most enjoyable, I have made a number of very prominent contacts and enjoyed working close to some of the brightest and sought after legal professionals in Australia. The network I made is more important that the actual knowledge gained, everyone in the class wanted to do something completely different which provided me with less fear about competition and changed my perspective by challenging me to think about issues that I would not ordinarily consider.
The course gave me a new set of analytical tools. It gave me both the technical competency and the confidence to create my own business and provide the consulting services that I have always dreamed of providing. I have the opportunity to combine my legal and commercial knowledge to help smaller organisations focus and overcome the challenges they face. Additionally, the networks that I have created give me more confidence as I have mentors, coaches and colleagues I can leverage, which will ultimately benefit my clients.
Running my own business is the best way to go!! I have enjoyed working for others for many years; however, working independently gives me the freedom to set my own schedule and work on the projects that I enjoy, and I have the flexibility of being able to spend more valuable time with my wife and kids.
The JD opens many doors, even though it is a ‘law degree,’ it is much more than that. It is a platform to learn about yourself and challenge your mind to become something you always wanted to be. I suggest it is important for students to allow themselves to learn others things through personal growth and development which will ultimately take them further than the technical information they will learn.
Students should be prepared for the work involved. It is a challenging but rewarding course that works best if a student is prepared to engage with the staff and students. The whole experience becomes much more fun and you take away so much more. Make contacts and enjoy the journey!