Andreas Vorst-Hopkins
Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
What motivated you to pursue studying law?
Throughout my undergraduate years I had a keen interest in two core passions, Indigenous issues and the politics and policy of the European Union. I guess I could not have become interested in two more disparate areas but they are both strongly tied to my own multicultural identity.
In between my Bachelor of Arts and the JD I worked for the Australian Customs Service, so I experienced the application of the Law out in the field. At some point I realised that my public policy and social justice aspirations would be furthered by an intimate understanding of the working of the Law, no matter which of my passions I chose to follow.
Why did you choose to take the Melbourne JD?
When I found out about the Melbourne Model I thought that maybe it was a sign, I had completed my honours year and my Bachelor. I had received a broad education across languages, cultural studies and Politics, but here presented itself a possibility for further education where I fit right into the model.
Why did you choose the Melbourne Law School?
I studied my first degree at the University of Melbourne, so just from speaking to students in many disciplines from around the world, one thing that constantly came up was the strength of the legal education available here. It was one of those ‘UniMelb’ matters of pride, amongst our many crowning glories; the law school was a place students aspired to from around Australia and abroad.
Describe your experience of the Melbourne JD to date. What have been the highlights so far?
Meeting a cohort of passionate and focused students from every walk of life and myriad motivations for studying the Law.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your degree?
I will most likely complete my articles before either going into practice in the Northern Territory (my home) or aiming to work for the European Union.
What advice do you have for others considering taking the Melbourne JD at the University of Melbourne?
Put aside your preconceptions about what it means to be a law student and open you minds to the wondrous possibilities that come with a JD from the University of Melbourne.