Rohan Hockings (Australia)
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (Honours) – University of Western Australia
What motivated you to pursue studying law?
I am looking for a change of direction from my previous degree. Apart from having an interest in the subject matter itself, a law degree is versatile with respect to the potential career paths it can lead to.
Why did you choose to take the Melbourne JD?
Firstly, the graduate model particularly appealed to me in the sense that I knew it would provide a highly motivated group of students with a diversity of backgrounds, educational and professional experience and personalities. Learning in a small group environment such as the JD allows everyone an opportunity to share their thoughts and this makes for stimulating discussions as everyone seems to approach individual problems from a unique perspective.
Why did you choose the Melbourne Law School?
Moving from Western Australia to undertake the degree allowed considerable flexibility in terms of choice of institution. Ultimately, the Melbourne JD was the only course I applied for after having considered a number of elements. The quality of the teaching staff and Melbourne University’s reputation were two of the most significant factors in addition to knowing that the student body would be highly motivated and diverse. The city of Melbourne itself was another factor and I have certainly enjoyed the change in environment.
Describe your experience of the Melbourne JD to date. What have been the highlights so far?
The course has been intense from day one. Although at times this has lead to mental fatigue and a search for motivation, upon reflection it couldn’t be any other way. In order to obtain a high quality degree and amass the requisite knowledge the course has to be challenging and push the students outside of their comfort zone. This it has certainly achieved but in a sense must be its greatest attribute. The not infrequent feeling of sitting in class and being aware that you are on the cusp of understanding a concept that is fundamental to the social structure or global relations is very satisfying. The guest lecture series helps to provide a tangible link between classroom discussion and the ultimate goal and a sense of perspective.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your degree?
At the minute I am still undecided. I am keen to explore the available options further over the next couple of years before committing to any particular path. That is one of the benefits of the JD though, the multitude of avenues available upon completion of the degree.
What advice do you have for others considering taking the Melbourne JD at the University of Melbourne?
Whilst being aware that everyone is different and looking for different things I am confident to say that the Melbourne JD will provide a more than satisfying experience for those committed to studying the law. From a personal perspective, I have really enjoyed returning to university and the challenge of a committed pursuit to acquiring knowledge in an area I previously knew very little about. There are also a great deal of opportunities to get involved in the law school outside of the formal curriculum, from the various journals run by students to the law student society, and from all accounts these provide rewarding experiences outside of the classroom.