UQ School of Law celebrates mentor program success

Students and mentors involved in the UQ Law Mentor Program celebrated the program’s outstanding success at a 2010 welcome function last night (Wednesday 21 April).

Launched in 2007, the program has grown over the past three years to include in 2010 more than 90 registered mentors and well over 100 students.

Program Director, Associate Professor Nick James, said the mentor program was an initiative of the TC Beirne School of Law and the University of Queensland Law Graduates Association.

“The Program partners Bachelor of Laws students with legal professionals who provide practical advice about studying and practising law," he said.

“The journey through law school and the transition to legal professional practice can be challenging and confronting for many law students and is made easier if the student is able to establish connections with the profession before graduation.”

Dr James said mentors enrolled in the 2010 program included judges, registrars, government lawyers and barristers, as well as solicitors from many of Brisbane’s leading law firms.

“Mentors not only provide students with insights into the realities of legal practice but also give practical advice and guidance about improving study techniques and choosing a career path.”

As well as providing an opportunity for 2010 mentors and students to meet in an informal setting, this year’s ‘welcome’ function also included the presentation of the 2009 Mentor of the Year Award.

The 2009 winner was Mr Ari McCamley, Senior Associate of Thynne & McCartney Lawyers, who has been mentoring students for the past three years.

Bachelor of Laws student Mr Ting Wang nominated Mr McCamley because he gave practical advice and guidance in a number of areas such as actively participating in student societies, techniques to remember in interviews and tips on applying for jobs.

For more information about the UQ Law Mentoring Program visit http://www.law.uq.edu.au/mentoring-program

Media:
Associate Professor Nick James, 07 3365 6657, n.james@law.uq.edu.au
Ms Lynda Flower, School of Law Marketing, 07 3365 2523, l.flower@law.uq.edu.au