I had the pleasure of chatting with Ebony Billett to ask her some burning questions about her experiences as a law student and as the President of the NDSLS.
Q. What degree are you studying?
A Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts (Politics and Journalism).
Q. Why did you choose to study at Notre Dame?
Notre Dame is a smaller university; the lecturers know you on a name-by-name basis and you’re not just a number.
Q. Have you always wanted to study law?
No! Back in the day I wanted to become a police officer but when I was in Year 12 I decided that a career in law was something that I wanted to pursue.
Q. Favourite course that you have studied?
Contract Law.
Q. You’re in 5th year, do you have any goals or plans for the future?
Ideally to get a job in a law firm! My goal would to be admitted as a lawyer and eventually be admitted to the bar. I am interested in practicing in family law in the future.
Q. Do you prefer learning online or in face-to-face?
This is a hard one! Online is great because I don’t have to travel to university on public transport, it would normally take me two hours to travel each way. I can sit at home and get things done. But I am a lot more engaged in face-to-face classes and there are a lot less distractions.
Q. Do you write your notes by hand or do you type them?
Type them.
Q. Where is the best place to eat on campus?
I would have to say Spice Alley for a good Pad Thai; no wait, Pad See Ew!
Q. How did you first get involved with the NDSLS?
I only got involved with the NDSLS in my third year and held the role of education director, some of my friends encouraged me to put my name forward.
Q. Why did you want to get involved with the NDSLS?
I thought it would be a great way to meet other students from different years, whilst also serving the law cohort. Being part of the NDSLS is a great way to make connections, and there are so many great events (not just Law Ball!) and great competitions.
Q. What is the best thing you’ve learnt from being President of the NDSLS? What have been some of the challenges?
Patience and resilience. Communication has been a particular challenge but it is something I am working to improve.
Q. What is the best piece of advice you could give to first year law students?
To do your weekly readings each week and absolutely do not leave everything to the last minute!
Q. What is your number one study tip?
To limit all the distractions around you. Put your phone out of the room and on silent and get into the zone.
Q. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Organisation is the key. I have a timetable that sets out classes, study, work and free time – everything!
Q. Who inspires you?
I am inspired by a lady called Emily Wilson Hussem; she is a motivational speaker who talks about femininity, faith and friendships. I am also inspired by Mother Theresa, and of course my family and my friends.
Q. How have friendships with other students benefitted your experience at university?
Having friends at university is beneficial because you can share your ideas, your thoughts, your notes and especially, when exams come around, you have people to talk to and to study with.
Q. What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend my free time with my family and friends.
A big thank you to Ebony for taking the time to chat with me. Now that you know a little more about the NDSLS President make sure to say hello when you see her around campus.
You’re guaranteed to find her at any NDSLS event!
Alicia
About the Author
Alicia is studying her fifth year of a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts (Applied Psychology). In addition to her position on the NDSLS as Education Director, Alicia has a passion for reading, rules, and roses.
#law #studentlife #startofsemester #meetandgreet #uni #Notredameuni #notredamesyd #ndsls #lawstudent #lawschool