Kate Reagh

1. Where do you work and what is your position?

I’m a graduate lawyer at Minter Ellison

2. Why did you choose to come to Sydney Law School?

I reached out to several Sydney Law School alumni asked them the nitty-gritty questions you can’t find on internet blogs. It was really helpful to chat to former students and is what motivated me to apply. It also helped that my sister and cousin both moved to Sydney and I had visited them several times before applying - of course I fell in love with the city!

3. What countries have you worked in?

 Canada.

4. Did you have a part-time job while at University?

Yes, but not for the full degree.

5. Did you consider applying for non-legal positions?

Yes, before law school I worked in supply chain - logistics at PepsiCo Beverages. I enjoyed my legal studies but I didn’t close my mind to other opportunities.

6. Extra-curricular activities you got involved in (societies, clubs, athletics)?

·      SULS International Officer

·      AIME Mentor

7. What is the most important tip you would give to international students before they go in for an interview?

Make sure you do your research and have a genuine interest in the position/company. However avoid ‘over-preparing’ and giving cookie-cutter answers. Be honest and transparent. 

8. If you had it to do all over again, what would you do differently?

 I wish I had worn more sunscreen! But otherwise, no, I couldn’t imagine doing anything differently.

9. How did Sydney Law School help prepare you for your current career?

 The SULS networking events and interview preparation workshops were amazing - make sure to get involved in as much as you can, but know your limits and do not overwhelm yourself.

10. Biggest Challenge and how you got over it/did you ever get over it?

I think it’s natural that most international students go through a stage of being homesick.  Missing family and friends was really hard and of course I still miss them! The little things in your day also added up (i.e. not having the same brands of snack food). Facetime and gelato got me through the hard times - I actually ended up getting a part time job as a Logistics Coordinator at a gelato franchise, which kept me busy and of course - gelato!

11. What was your experience like getting a job after you graduated?

a.     Did you use any of the Law School’s on-campus career services? 

Yes, as mentioned, the networking events are really crucial - you can meet potential employers in a more casual setting instead of just at career fairs (which are also important!) Employers are looking for well-rounded applicants so make sure that you brush up on your EQ skills. 

b.     How long did it take you to find a job?

 I can’t say an exact time that it took me to find a job because I was always casually asking around and trying to set myself up for a position when I graduated. Start networking and meeting industry professionals as soon as you can even when you are not actively looking for a job.