Felicity Ryburn (Australia)
Bachelor of Liberal Studies (International, Honours)
Why did you choose to take the Melbourne JD?
I chose to take the Melbourne JD program to gain practical professional skills that would be applicable to evolving domestic and international issues. I had completed a Bachelor of Liberal Studies (International, Honours) at the University of Sydney, where I majored in French, Immunology and Physiology. During this study, I spent some time in France at Sciences Po, Paris and in a medical research unit. Last year I was learning Spanish, volunteering for Médicine Sans Frontière and doing medical research. Due to these experiences, I developed a fascination for how laws and their exercise shape Australia and the world. The skills and knowledge gained by the study of law will enable me to constructively contribute to this process.
Why did you choose Melbourne Law School?
The Melbourne Law School’s approach to law was what attracted me. It is a well-established school with experience, a good reputation and many wonderful academics and alumni from whom to learn. I am interested in how international issues are resolved; in how Australia approaches its own domestic issues and how international events influence domestic affairs. The Melbourne Law School offers the opportunity to explore this in their course. Graduate students also bring a diverse range of experiences and knowledge, providing an added dimension to the study of law. Melbourne is a diverse and interesting city with the University of Melbourne in a central location to make the most of this. I only applied to the Melbourne Law School.
Describe your experience of the Melbourne JD to date. What have been the highlights so far?
The highlights of studying so far have been meeting the students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who have different opinions and goals. I have enjoyed exploring the wealth of ideas and research presented at the Law School. I particularly appreciate the weekly presentations on issues in the law by practicing and influential speakers such as judges, ministers, prominent barristers, solicitors and visiting academics. The small class sizes have meant that it is easy to get to know the students well and to access the presenters for questions and feedback. I have been impressed by the resource facilities and excellent support. I am looking forward to participating in the myriad of opportunities presented to expand knowledge beyond the class, starting with the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition over the summer.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your degree?
I started with an interest in the way international events effect domestic affairs and wanting to explore ways of solving issues that cross borders. I hope to have a good foundation of skills and knowledge to begin building experience practising in the law and then use those skills and experience to help solve these issues.
What advice do you have for others considering taking the Melbourne JD at the University of Melbourne?
Do not hesitate to apply if you are passionate and have aspirations that knowledge of the law would help achieve. My advice would to be honest about what is motivating you because there are plenty of opportunities, knowledge and skill in the law school where you can find support to help you achieve those goals. There are many people who are passionate about the possibilities within the law, so you’re sure to find people with similar interests.