Australian lawyer has big dreams
Western Chances alumna Mel is an Australian lawyer.
‘I graduated high school in 2010 from a public high school in the western suburbs where English was a second language for more than half the pupils. This didn’t deter me from striving for success and achieving my goal of being admitted as an Australian Lawyer.’
During Mel’s Bachelor of Commerce/ Bachelor of Laws course at Deakin University, she was offered a placement at one of Australia leading law firms, MinterEllison, where she worked as a part-time paralegal while studying.
‘When I finished my degree, I was fortunate enough to be offered a full-time paralegal role at another top-tier law firm, Allens, where I worked while I completed my Practical Legal Training (an additional year of studies in order to be admitted). I was admitted as an Australian lawyer a year later.’
Mel now works as a Compliance Manager at a global financial services firm, IG Markets. Her role includes managing a team and overseeing its Australian and New Zealand businesses.
When first approached by her school to apply for a Western Chances scholarship, Mel had no idea the impact it would have on her life.
‘I come from a family of three siblings where my mum raised us as a single parent who was also on a disability pension. My mum couldn’t afford to pay for my uniform or textbooks or even buy quality produce. Spam, potato and bread were staples in our household. My mum did absolutely everything she could to provide for us. I even remember coming home to a new pair of socks my mum would leave on my bed and being so excited over this.’
‘I can say hand on my heart that I would not be where I am today without the support of Western Chances. I wouldn’t have been able to go to university because I couldn’t afford the upfront costs of textbooks or travel expenses. Aside from the money, I also had the guidance and support of the team at Western Chances. Their mentorship and network gave me many personal and career opportunities.’
Mel’s favourite memory of Western Chances was sharing her story at the Scholarship Award Ceremony:
‘I remember looking up at the end and seeing tears. So many people crying. And I was shocked. I had no idea the impact my story would have, and I just remember the standing ovation and the loud applause (I suspect everyone knew I was one second away from crying from nerves several times). This is a moment I’ll never forget as I was proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone.’
Mel hopes other young people will continue chasing their dreams, and shares her advice:
‘It doesn’t matter what ATAR you get, or what your first job is. If you have a vision of being somewhere, and you are willing to put in the effort to get there, you will. I 100% believe that. And as much as you might dislike networking, it will be one of the best things you do. Don’t be afraid to send a follow up email, or connect with someone on LinkedIn. And most of all, don’t be afraid to reach out to people, whether it’s for advice, mentorship or career opportunities.’
As for her own big dreams, she has plenty!
‘My dream is to open up a doggy day care! Haha but aside from that, I’d love to run my own business one day (I’m yet to figure out what that’ll be) or to climb the corporate ladder (as boring as that may sound to many!). I love a challenge and I’m never one to shy away from an opportunity, so my dreams remain open and broad!’