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"I didn’t even do legal studies in high school,” she says. “I was actually planning to study exercise physiology at Sydney Uni. But when the second-round offers came through, I had a change of heart and added law as a bit of a wild card. I got in and decided to give it a shot.”

That split-second decision led her to a five-year double degree in business and law. She was part of the very first law cohort to go through UOW Liverpool.

Choosing Liverpool

Growing up in South Western Sydney, Gabrielle was looking for a uni that was easy to get to. Liverpool was the perfect fit.

“I didn’t want to make the long drive down to ¾«¶«´«Ã½. Liverpool was close to home, right near the shops, and easy to get to. My best friend was going there too, so we commuted together. That definitely helped.”

But it wasn’t just about convenience. Gabrielle quickly found that the Liverpool campus had a strong sense of community. The smaller classes made it easy to connect with both classmates and teachers.

“You actually got to know your lecturers. You could email them or even call during exam week. They really wanted to help.”

Campus life

Some of Gabrielle’s favourite memories from uni were the everyday moments spent with friends.

“Sometimes we’d have huge breaks between classes. We’d book one of the little study rooms downstairs and hang out. We’d try to study but usually ended up laughing and chatting. Then we’d scramble to focus in the last half hour before class.”

She also enjoyed being able to walk to Westfield or grab lunch on Moore Street. It made those long uni days a bit more enjoyable.

Teachers who made a difference

Gabrielle says her teachers played a big part in shaping her uni experience. One that really stood out was Dr Niamh Kinchin.

“She was so supportive. No question was ever a silly one with her. I had her for a few subjects, including administrative law, which was tough. But she had so much patience. I thought I’d fail that subject, but I ended up with a High Distinction.”

She also remembers Ben Mostyn, another teacher who brought humour and calm into the classroom.

“He had a way of making everyone feel comfortable. You could always ask for help, and it never felt awkward.”

Getting into the legal profession

Graduating from uni is a big step, but breaking into the legal world can be even tougher.

Gabrielle is building her career at a law firm in Sydney.“They tell you on your first day that getting a job in law can be hard. And they’re right. When I started applying for clerk roles, I felt like I applied for a hundred positions.”

What helped Gabrielle was getting a foot in the door while she was still studying.

“I worked as an office junior during uni. It wasn’t the most exciting job. I spent a lot of time scanning documents and unpicking staples. But I made good connections. One of the people I met at my first job referred me to the law firm I am currently working at.”

She also stayed in touch with her lecturers, which opened unexpected doors.

“One day, out of the blue, John Littrich, from the School of Law called me. He had just had lunch with someone from a law firm and offered to pass along my details. I didn’t end up taking that job, but it meant a lot that he thought of me.”

Advice for future students

Gabrielle’s biggest tip for students is to speak up and get involved.

“Talk to your lecturers, ask questions, join in on campus activities. That’s how you build relationships. And if you can, try to get some experience at a law firm, even in a junior role. It helps more than you realise.”

She also encourages students to use LinkedIn to stay connected and build a profile.

“Whenever I did well or was involved in something, I’d post about it. It’s a good way to show people what you’re working on.”

Looking ahead

Over the next few years, Gabrielle hopes to grow her career while also starting a family.

“I’d love to keep moving forward at work but also start a family. Thankfully, there are more flexible options now. Women can do both, and I plan to.”

Her final message to students is simple.

“Get involved as much as you can. COVID took a couple of years away from us, so take advantage of all the opportunities university has to offer. Join clubs, make friends and always ask questions. Make the most of it.”