Hi Naushin, can you tell us a bit about yourself? Where and what are you studying?

 

I just graduated from UTS with a combined degree in Law and International studies (majoring in Japanese). I’ve always loved learning languages and when I started studying Japanese in high school I knew I would want to continue studying in university. I actually chose my degree and university because of the year-long exchange program and choice of Japanese universities. Being able to live and study in Japan for a year was a lifelong dream come true.

 

What about your legal studies? What subjects have you enjoyed the most so far and why?

 

I’ve generally found I enjoyed international law and commercial law subjects. My favorite subject was probably Asian Law and Legal Systems because it gave me some insight into foreign jurisdictions, which inspired me to pursue an internship with a Malaysian firm during Summer. I had the opportunity to do some in-depth research on international commercial arbitration reforms. My other international law subjects gave me a good foundation but I also enjoyed the challenge in adapting to the Malaysian context.

 

Can you tell us about your legal experience so far?

 

Yegal has secured some amazing opportunities for me with firms like Clyde & Co where I have worked with their insurance, construction and cyber teams. I’ve done a lot of document review but I also have experience in research, drafting and administrative tasks. 

 

And most recently you’ve completed a large scale document review project at a boutique class action firm right?

 

Yes, I just wrapped up a document review at Bannister Law for their class action against Toyota Motor Corporation.

 

What was the best thing about the experience at Bannister?

 

The fact that I could utilise my language skills. I never imagined there would be a need for my Japanese ability at a law firm but it felt amazing to be able to bring a unique skill set to the team. I really enjoyed the challenging work and appreciated that my opinions and expertise were valued.

 

What did you learn during your time with the firm?

 

Other than the great Japanese practice, the main thing I learned about was communication. I was initially hesitant to undertake this project because I was in mandatory isolation and I was unsure how the firm would handle working from home arrangements. But the Bannister team were so supportive and responsive that it became a smooth process and I absolutely loved working from home. I knew I could always email or call someone if I needed to discuss something. This experience also reminded me that basic things like regularly checking emails and managing my time make a difference. And of course, I was able to learn a really technical subject matter. I went from knowing nothing about cars to understanding the structure and mechanisms of a diesel engine.

 

Has the experience at Bannister made you think about your future career direction? Where do you see yourself in five years time?

 

I honestly do not have a set career path at this stage. I’d really like a career where I can use all my skills, the way I was able to incorporate my Japanese with my legal analytical skills at Bannister. At the moment I’m exploring opportunities not only in law, but business and government as well. Many of the graduate programs that appeal to me do have legal rotations and I think I’d like to see myself in charge of litigation someday. But what matters to me more than the area I work in is the environment and the people I’m working with.