Charting a legal path: a journey from university to practice

For Jiehan Chen, the path to becoming a successful lawyer began at the University of Newcastle, where she completed the Juris Doctor and Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice in 2022. Now working as a lawyer, Jiehan specialises in Insurance Law, a niche she discovered through her studies and early professional experiences.

“As a lawyer, the majority of my work focuses on providing legal advice to clients to resolve their legal issues,” Jiehan explains. “Ultimately, my passion lies in making a real difference for clients by guiding their way through legal challenges with clarity and confidence.”

Jiehan has a strong desire to understand how the law influences individuals, businesses, and the community. “I was particularly drawn to the problem-solving nature of legal work, analysing complex issues, advocating for clients, and finding practical solutions,” she says.

When deciding where to study, one of the reasons Jiehan chose the University of Newcastle was for its reputation for practical, skills-based legal education. The integrated Juris Doctor and Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice program appealed to her for its blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.

“Newcastle’s focus on social justice and its connections with the local legal community provided valuable opportunities for real-world learning,” Jiehan notes. “The smaller class sizes also meant I could engage more closely with my lecturers and peers, enhancing my learning experience.”

Jiehan had the opportunity to apply learnings in the classroom to hands-on experiences in the legal clinic at the University of Newcastle Legal Centre (UNLC) and Law on the Beach. These experiences helped for a smooth transition into her legal career.

“Through career-ready placements, I gained hands-on experience in various areas of law, which reinforced my ability to handle real cases, meet deadlines, and navigate legal procedures effectively,” she reflects.

Another main attraction for Jiehan was the three-year integrated structure of the Juris Doctor and Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice program. “This program is shorter than similar ones at other universities, which typically takes at least three and a half years.”

Additionally, Jiehan benefited from the University’s law library, which she describes as an “extremely valuable resource” that supported her research and case preparation. “Access to extensive databases, case law, and legal commentaries helped me develop strong research skills, which are essential in legal practice.”

While Jiehan now focuses on Insurance Law, her career journey began with broader exposure to the legal industry. She had the opportunity to get a part-time job as a Legal Assistant through a referral of the University of Newcastle Legal Centre. She noted how helpful the centre was for sharing external work opportunities.

“What I liked most about my part-time role was the opportunity to apply what I was learning in my studies to real legal work, which helped build my confidence and prepare me for my career as a lawyer.”

Jiehan had the opportunity to explore various legal areas, including Family Law, Property Law, Personal Injury, and Insurance Law. Her experiences across different fields have strengthened her ability to approach legal challenges with adaptability and confidence.

Jiehan credits her education at the University of Newcastle with preparing her for the legal profession through a combination of strong theoretical foundations, practical skills, and networking opportunities.

After graduation, Jiehan was admitted as a Lawyer in the Supreme Court of New South Wales, Australia. “The University’s strong industry connections and the trusted relationship between the local community and the University of Newcastle Legal Centre provided valuable networking opportunities, making it easier to secure my first legal role,” Jiehan says.

Jiehan’s experience at the University of Newcastle extended beyond the classroom. Living in Newcastle allowed her to enjoy the perfect balance between a relaxed coastal lifestyle and a vibrant, growing city. “The beautiful beaches, such as Nobbys and Bar Beach, provided a great place to unwind, while the city’s thriving café and dining scene made it easy to enjoy time with friends and family,” Jiehan shares.

She also appreciated Newcastle’s sense of community, which made it easier to connect with local professionals. “The city’s relatively smaller size made it easier to build relationships and engage with the local legal profession.”

As an international student herself, Jiehan strongly recommends the University of Newcastle to others considering studying overseas. “Make the most of every opportunity—engage with lecturers, participate in workshops, and take advantage of the UNLSA’s Careers in Law Expo and Sydney law firm tours to expand your network,” she advises. “Also, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, build relationships with both local and international students, and gain practical experience through work placements or part-time jobs.”

Jiehan shared that the University has excellent support services for international students, including career guidance, academic support, and social clubs that help students adjust to life in Australia.

Jiehan Chen's journey as a student from the University of Newcastle to her current role as a lawyer, showcases the importance of a well-rounded legal education and hands-on experience. Her commitment to making a positive impact for clients and her enthusiasm for tackling complex legal challenges ensure a promising future in the legal profession.

Jiehan Chen

Jiehan's commitment to making a positive impact for clients and her enthusiasm for tackling complex legal challenges ensure a promising future in the legal profession.