Solicitor
Qualification: Master of Legal Practice (MLegalPrac)
Company: Crescent Legal
Year of Graduation: 2022
Education Provider: University of Western Australia
Country of Origin: India
Tell us a bit about yourself and what your story is.
My name is Manvita, and I am a dual-qualified lawyer with admission to practice in Australia (WA) and India. My journey began in India, where I earned my law degree in 2018. In 2019, I applied to the Legal Practice Board of Western Australia to have my Indian law degree assessed. This led me to enrol in the Master of Legal Practice course at the University of Western Australia in 2020.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted my plans, and I had to wait until February 2022 for the borders to reopen to enter Australia finally. Since then, I graduated in December 2022 and completed all re-qualification requirements. I now work as a Solicitor in WA.
What was your main reason(s) to select Perth as your study destination?
Firstly, the city’s unique blend of being both bustling and spacious at the same time. I can enjoy the pristine nature in the middle of the concrete city. Secondly, the opportunity to study and re-qualify at one of the most reputable universities in the world and obtain a Master’s level degree upon completion was incredibly appealing.
Are there any other notable experiences from your time studying you’d like to share?
There were many, but one that particularly stands out is meeting llamas at the campus to beat exam blues!
On the academic front, a notable moment was the opportunity to meet three Supreme Court of Appeal Judges, including The Hon. Justice Michael John Buss, and listen to their fascinating insights about the Australian legal system and how they decide cases.
Tell us about your experience since leaving UWA – how has your career progressed to date? Any professional achievements you’d like to share?
Since graduating from UWA, I enrolled in the College of Law to complete my Practical Legal Training, a requirement to be eligible for admission as a Solicitor at the Supreme Court of WA. Upon getting admitted to the Supreme Court, I commenced working as a Solicitor at Crescent Legal, a boutique law firm in Victoria Park.
I have been able to re-establish myself in a new and different legal system as well as a cultural set-up. I have had the opportunity to use my legal knowledge to assist clients from diverse backgrounds and varied needs.
What are the top 3 skills you need in your role as a Solicitor?
- Active listening
- Interpersonal communication
- Problem-solving
What have you enjoyed the most about living and studying in Perth?
The quality of education at UWA alongside the unique cultural offerings of Perth have been particularly rewarding. I have enjoyed the inspirational conversations and good coffee around the city! The passion of the people of Perth has been a highlight.
What would you say to students thinking of coming to Perth to study?
It is indeed daunting to pack your life in a suitcase and move miles away from home only to find yourself starting from scratch, but it is this challenging journey which will bring out undiscovered sides of you. Perth is welcoming and will soon become your new home – all it takes is an open mindset.
If you could tell your graduate self one piece of career advice, what would it be and why?
Do not put off the opportunity to actively seek out and embrace networking events, particularly as international students with no connections in the city. Building a strong professional network not only opens doors to work opportunities but can also help you find long-standing friends. Connections made during your university life are future collaborators and supporters who impact your personal growth.