Nicole’s leap of faith from science to law
Since becoming a Juris Doctor student at La Trobe, Nicole has been making some serious waves.
When you think of a law student, you might picture someone who’s been preparing for the courtroom since high school.
For Nicole, who’s currently studying a Juris Doctor (JD) at La Trobe University, the path to law was anything but straightforward. After completing a Bachelor of Science with plans to study medicine, Nicole took a gap year to travel and reflect. It was then that she made a bold pivot to law, despite having no formal background in the field.
‘I wanted a change, so I finally took a leap of faith and applied to law schools,’ Nicole explained.
Nicole’s passion for criminal law was sparked at La Trobe University by standout lecturer Dr Steven Tudor, whose teaching style and encouragement helped her gain confidence in a new academic field.
‘My interest in becoming a criminal barrister was ignited because of Steven and his subject,’ said Nicole.
Beyond the classroom, Nicole is actively involved in the La Trobe Law Students’ Association, serving first as a JD Officer and now as JD Director, where she liaises with the course coordinator and represents her peers. Nicole has also competed in moot court competitions, sharpening her advocacy and legal reasoning skills.
Having found great support and inspiration from La Trobe staff and peers, Nicole engaged in additional industry enrichment, including the Victorian Bar Shadowing Program. There, Nicole observed real criminal trials and developed a deeper understanding of justice in action.
‘I was able to witness the role of both the prosecutor and defence, providing me with a more nuanced perspective on criminal trial,’ Nicole shared.
‘That practical exposure, combined with intensive coursework, has refined my ambition to practice in criminal law.’
Since becoming a Juris Doctor student at La Trobe, Nicole has been making some serious waves.
From receiving the Dean’s Prize for Principles of Criminal Law to being awarded the La Trobe Law School’s Scholarship for the Duke-Leiden Institute for Global and Transnational Law in the Hague, Nicole’s postgraduate experience has been rich with opportunity.
As she looks ahead, Nicole’s goal is clear: to become a criminal barrister and use her legal training to pursue justice.
‘I remind myself that I am doing this with a purpose. I am intentional with how I approach my studies because I want to be a helpful member of society in pursuing and ensuring justice,’ she said.
As for how Nicole has managed to fit everything into her schedule, she acknowledges that balancing study with life isn’t always easy, but that she’s found a rhythm that works.
‘I like having an overview of the week ahead and also an hour-by-hour schedule to ensure I achieve what I want to get done with ample time for social life and rest,’ Nicole explained.
Nicole’s choice to study a Juris Doctor is a testament to the power of following your instincts.
Her advice to anyone considering postgraduate study?
‘There’s no perfect timing. Rely on your instinct and start when you are ready.’
Considering postgraduate study in law?
Whether or not you come from a legal background, La Trobe University’s Juris Doctor program offers the support, flexibility and inspiration to help you thrive.
Applications for Juris Doctor are now open. Apply now to start in 2026.