September 16, 2016

Female law students inspired by industry’s best

The 2016 Lucy Mentoring Program has come to a close, with 15 female law students graduating from the four-month program yesterday (Thursday 15 September). 

Now in its ninth year, ‘Lucy’ matches mentors with students based on the student’s area of study or interest and is a joint initiative of Careers Central and UOW’s School of Law.

The key objective of the program is to inspire, motivate and educate women about the opportunities available for career direction and leadership, through regular meetings, career planning, work place shadowing and networking.

Speaking at the Lucy graduation, law student Olivia Wallace said she felt incredibly lucky to be given the opportunity to be paired with an intelligent, down to earth and inspiring lawyer.

“Having Karena (Nicholls) as my mentor gave me the direction and confidence I needed,” Olivia said.

“She constantly went above and beyond for me and gave me the confidence to appreciate my own skills and qualities.

“The Lucy program provided me with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of areas of law, and provided real context to the different areas I have studied at university.”

Karena Nicholls, Olivia Wallace, Ines Goluza and Jennifer Messieh at the Lucy graduation event.

A Senior Associate at Kells Lawyers in Wollongong, Karena Nicholls said many female students doubt themselves, which restricts what they are capable of.

“The best value that female students can take from this program is confidence,” Karena said.

“The biggest lesson I have learnt, and one which I hoped to share, is that no matter how hard it seems – you have the capability, you just need to believe in yourself.”

Lucy Program Coordinator Zanna Elliott from UOW’s Careers Central said the program aims to embed leadership qualities in female law students.

“Having access to females at senior levels is a great confidence builder and can really develop the student’s professional skill-base,” Zanna said.

“A major part of the Lucy program is breaking down the barriers that aspiring female lawyers may face in their career. Our mentors push them to reflect on their strengths and qualities and can help guide their future career path.”

Visit the Lucy Mentoring Program website for more information.