Pauline Leung
Legal Counsel (Victoria, Tasmania & New Zealand)
GHD Pty Ltd
Master of Construction Law 2009
Why did you choose to undertake a graduate degree in Law?
I wanted to be academically challenged in an area of law that I found interesting and relevant to my current work.
Why did you choose Melbourne Law School?
The Melbourne Law Masters program offers an incredible number and variety of subjects. The lecturers have diverse backgrounds which include those with careers in academia, leading legal practitioners and barristers - some of whom had an impressive combination of all of the above. The first-class facilities of the Melbourne Law School building, in particular the law library with extensive online resources, also contribute to the overall experience.
Describe your career pathway - what is your current role and how did you get to where you are?
I am often asked this question as I originally started as a mergers and acquisitions lawyer at Mallesons Stephen Jaques. After working for several years at law firms in Melbourne and New York, an opportunity arose to take an in-house position at a professional consulting firm. This then led to my current role as Legal Counsel (Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand) at GHD, a global professional and technical consulting firm that employs over 6,000 people across five continents.
Describe your experience of studying in the Melbourne Law Masters. What were the highlights?
It has been an engaging study experience primarily due to the high calibre lecturers and the student diversity. During the course, there were many opportunities to compare perspectives of different stakeholders in construction projects, as a typical class would include project managers, engineers, architects, construction contractors, contract managers and lawyers from Australia and overseas. Class debates were invariably animated. Another highlight was the half-day field trip to actual construction sites around Melbourne, especially for those of us who spend most of our time in the office!
How do you think your degree has helped your career?
The degree has refined my legal skills, given me insights into the industry that my employer operates in (from a legal, policy and practical perspective) and provided valuable networking opportunities that I am confident will enhance my career in the short and long term. I highly recommend undertaking a masters degree at Melbourne Law School.
What advice do you have for others considering undertaking a graduate degree in Law at Melbourne?
I would suggest that students choose subjects that they are interested in as this will motivate you to do well in them. It goes without saying that undertaking a graduate degree in law requires dedication and hard work. However, if you are prepared to be challenged and invest the time and effort in your studies, you will find it fulfilling and a thoroughly worthwhile experience.