Meredith Schilling (Australia)
I chose the Melbourne JD because I was attracted to the idea of studying law with a group of mature-aged students from a diverse range of professional backgrounds.
Prior to undertaking the Melbourne JD, I was a professional opera singer and arts administrator and had worked with opera companies and classical music groups in Australia and in the UK.
Undertaking the Melbourne JD was a major change of direction – but one that has provided me with incredible challenges and rewards.
I completed the Melbourne JD in December 2003. I then went on to Mallesons Stephen Jaques, where I completed my articles in 2004. From November 2004 to March 2006 I was Associate to Justice Dodds-Streeton at the Victorian Supreme Court. During this period her Honour was Judge-in-Charge of the Supreme Court Commercial List and so I had the opportunity to see a large number of barristers at work in both small and larger commercial matters.
Inspired by that experience, I came to the Victorian Bar in March 2006. Since then I have appeared as a barrister in all jurisdictions and practice primarily in commercial, administrative and taxation law. I particularly enjoy the diversity of work at the Bar, and the fact that each new case raises a unique set of legal and procedural challenges to be solved.
I would recommend the Melbourne JD highly. The course was run extremely efficiently and the majority of the lecturers were of an excellent standard. Most importantly, I think that the course offers students the opportunity to develop high-quality legal and analytical skills.