September 18, 2024

From Wollongong to the world: Carlo’s global journey in Law

Carlo Teodorowych, a final-year UOW Bachelor of Laws student, exemplifies the transformative power of experiential learning.

Carlo Teodorowych, a final-year UOW Bachelor of Laws student, exemplifies the transformative power of experiential learning. This year alone, Carlo has embarked on academic study tours to India, Singapore, and Japan, completed a semester exchange at the University of Leeds, and interned at legal tech company Consilio in London. His story is a testament to the enriching experiences that come from studying abroad, and how these experiences can shape not just a student's academic journey, but their entire future career.

These global adventures have not only enriched his academic understanding but also prepared him for a dynamic legal career. His journey reflects UOW’s commitment to fostering global perspectives, enhancing students’ skills, and connecting academic knowledge with real-world applications.

Expanding horizons through international study tours

Carlo’s journey began with New Colombo Plan supported academic study tours to Kerela in southern India and Singapore (BUS303) in January, and then to Osaka and Tokyo in Japan in July. These tours are integral to the Faculty of Business and Law’s commitment to providing students for the global world of work. For Carlo, these experiences offered the chance to explore sustainable business alongside different legal systems and cultural contexts, broadening his understanding of law in a way that goes beyond textbooks.

“The study tours were absolutely incredible!”, Carlo shares. “In India and Singapore, I was able to immerse myself and understand firsthand how these different legal frameworks operate. Especially in such diverse cultural settings and, in India’s case, a significantly larger population. It was eye-opening and reinforced the idea that law is not one-size-fits-all.”

In July, Carlo spent the Winter break undertaking experiential subject BUS302, adding another layer to his understanding of international law. “Japan’s legal approach is unique in how they blend traditional values with modernity. It’s experiences like these that show you the global nature of the legal profession,” he says.

A semester abroad at the University of Leeds

Carlo’s semester exchange at the University of Leeds was a highlight of his academic journey. Having previously lived in Leeds in 2022, Carlo felt a strong connection to the city, which made his return feel like a homecoming.

At Leeds, Carlo immersed himself in a rigorous academic environment while also engaging with the local community. His favourite subject, Disability Law, challenged him to think critically about the impact of legislation on real lives. “The course pushed me to consider the emotional and practical implications of the law, adding to my overall lens on life. I believe this is crucial for anyone aspiring to practice in this field,” Carlo explains. “Being able to spend time at one of UOW’s partner Universities, the University of Leeds, gave me additional perspectives and insights to bring back to me UOW degree”

Beyond the classroom, Carlo balanced his love for cricket with his studies, playing for a local club, Scarcroft CC, and coaching juniors. He also travelled extensively across the UK and Europe, from the bustling streets of London, to hiking in the Canary Islands, to being at the Calcutta Cup in Edinburgh, all while gaining deeper exposure to European culture.

International internship in legal tech

To cap off his international experience, Carlo secured a six-week internship at Consilio, a global leader in eDiscovery and legal tech. “My time at Consilio has given me fantastic insight into how the global industry functions,” Carlo reflects. “I was able to see how technology is reshaping the legal field and learned skills that will be essential as the industry

Why international experiences matter

Carlo’s story exemplifies the value of international experiences in a law degree. At UOW, we believe that studying abroad is not just about academic enrichment; it’s about personal growth and preparing students to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Carlo’s experiences have not only broadened his understanding of law but have also provided him with the cultural competence and global perspective that are essential in today’s legal profession.

As Carlo prepares to graduate, he is well-equipped to take on the challenges of a dynamic legal career. His story is a powerful reminder of the opportunities that await students who are willing to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the world.

Carlo’s story underscores the value of international exposure in education. His advice to fellow and future students? Embrace every opportunity, both academically and culturally, as each experience shapes you into a well-rounded professional ready to make a global impact. All in all it comes down to two words, why not?