As this is Jesse’s final year of his LLB, he has been applying for graduate programs. Graduate programs are an excellent opportunity to not only get employment but also get additional training as you transition into the workforce. Law graduate programs are generally 1 or 2 years in duration. Graduates are usually assigned to work under senior practitioners. Jesse has been kind enough to share with us some things he has learnt whilst applying for graduate positions.

Keep your search broad

When applying for graduate positions, Jesse recommends widening your scope. There are graduate programs not only in law firms but also relevant ones in major banks, insurance companies, government departments such as the ATO and other large companies. Your law degree is relevant to a wide range of roles, so take this into consideration when searching for a graduate position.

Start thinking early on

Graduate programs are likely going to have more applications than opportunities, and are therefore highly competitive. Jesse encourages law students to start thinking about setting themselves up for a job early on in their degree to give themselves the best chance at getting the job they want. It is necessary to make decisions which can boost your chances at securing a graduate position, throughout your entire degree. Make sure you are doing extra-curricular activities, making industry connections and undertaking work experience early on, so you can include it in your application. Jesse reflects on a word of encouragement from the Hon. Michael Kirby during his talk at UNE recently. ‘When it comes to applying for positions- think about what you think you are worthy of and double it; otherwise, you’ll never know!’

Check dates

Jesse notes you often have to apply for graduate positions a year in advance, so it’s important to be prepared. When applying for a graduate program in NSW in 2020, applications will close around March for a position in 2021. So, you will need to be organised. When applying to firms in QLD, many of their applications for graduate programs won’t open up until early August 2020 for the 2021 positions.

Use UNE Careers

The team at UNE Careers can help you find a graduate a position, perfect your resume and get you ready for interviews. They can also give you guidance throughout the application process. To ensure you give yourself the best chance, contact UNE Careers at <https://www.une.edu.au/current-students/support/student-support/career-development>

Jesse has recommended the following websites for other law students to research. Be sure to check them out:

Helpful websites

• Grad Australia
  • A good spot for finding lots of internships and graduate programs. The website also contains helpful advice on writing cover letters.
  • https://gradaustralia.com.au/
  •  
• Graduate Opportunities
  • A good spot for finding lots of internships and graduate programs. Check out their jobs guide for advice on cover letter drafting, salaries and more!
  • http://www.graduateopportunities.com/ 
  •  
• GradConnection
  • Another helpful resource for finding job opportunities
  • https://au.gradconnection.com/
  •  
• Doyles Guides
  • For finding law firms that are out there. This can give lists of the leading law firms or lawyers in different areas. It may also assist in researching a firm for drafting cover letters and interviews.
  • https://doylesguide.com/
  •  
• Hays Salary Guide
  • To give you a bit more of a realistic idea of what your salary may be
  • https://www.hays.com.au/salary-guide/index.htm
  •  
• Law Society Journal NSW
  • There is a subscription you may be interested in for Law students, give access to networking opportunities as well as the journal which has good write ups which can give you an insight into what is out there and developments in different areas of law.
  • https://www.lawsociety.com.au/