When Samantha began her law studies at the University of Tasmania, she knew she wanted to help people navigate the often-confusing legal system.
Originally from Malaysia, Samantha was driven by a strong desire to better understand her own rights while giving others the tools to understand theirs. Fast forward to today, and Samantha’s path has led her to Melbourne, but the foundation for her legal career was firmly built in Tasmania.
After graduating with her Bachelor of Laws, she chose to stay in Tasmania a little longer and enrolled in the Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP)—a postgraduate professional training program to qualify for admission as a legal practitioner.
The decision, she said, was an easy one.
“Many of my classmates were enrolling in the GDLP, and it felt like a natural next step. I was also attracted by the fact that the program helps students secure placements.”
While she considered a few other options, the GDLP at the University of Tasmania stood out for its focus on advocacy and practical experience.
“The opportunity to appear before judges and receive direct feedback on my advocacy skills really appealed to me,” she said. “It’s an intense experience—but an incredibly valuable one.”
Rather than traditional lectures and essays, the GDLP is built around real-world tasks. Samantha worked on case files, filed documents at court registries, and prepared for simulated hearings.
“Some days we’d start with lectures in the morning, then spend the afternoon getting ready for court. It was fast-paced, hands-on, and a big step up from undergraduate study.”
The program’s strong ties to the Tasmanian legal profession also gave Samantha insight into court procedures, professional etiquette, and career development opportunities. She particularly enjoyed travelling to North and North West Tasmania, where she connected with members of the Early Career Lawyers’ Association and took part in career workshops.
Beyond the academic side, Samantha said the supportive learning environment made a big difference.
“The staff and lecturers were incredibly encouraging and always willing to help,” she said. “It made the whole experience a lot less daunting.”
Now based in Melbourne, Samantha is aiming for a career in dispute resolution and feels well-prepared thanks to her time in the GDLP.
“The practical skills I gained—from advocacy to managing legal files—are things I use every day,” she said.
Her advice to other law graduates? “I’d absolutely recommend the GDLP at UTAS. It’s hands-on, well-connected, and gives you the confidence to step into the legal profession.”
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