Written by former Student for a Semester and current Bachelor of Laws(CRICOS 093922K)student Kendall Bronson.
I remember my first lecture in the Student for a Semester program. I chose the subject Contemporary Issues in Law and Society, and I was so nervous! I very quickly felt welcomed by my lecturer, made some friends and began to figure out my way around the campus.
Juggling high school and university
After the first week, the reality of completing a university subject while in high school became less daunting. It took some time to figure out how to manage school and the program, but once I did, I was set for the semester! I had some weeks where I felt the pressure of doing both, but Bond was there 100% of the way to help me through it. On top of that, I had my mentor regularly checking in with me.
Starting my law degree
The subject I chose gave me a taste of what studying law would be like. I had to complete the readings, the tutorial preparation and the exam, just like any other law student. Now that I'm in the full degree, I can confidently say that experience was genuinely, and exactly what studying law is like. Although it was tough, it showed me that I am capable of doing the work and that pursing law is what I wanted to do after high school.
The choice to study at Bond was easy. The University supported me the entire time and made me feel so welcomed that I knew this was where I wanted to do my degree. There are so many resources at Bond, and not to mention the beautiful facilities…There’s no better place to study.
So, after graduating Year 12 I started my Bachelor of Laws at Bond – and I’m now in my fourth semester.
The verdict
I cannot express how rewarding completing the program was! I learned so much during my time. Of course, I learned the subject content, but one of the most valuable things I discovered was what I was really capable of. I never thought I would be able to take on a university subject while in high school, but I did! This was a massive confidence booster and it helped prepare me for transitioning to university. I already knew what to expect from classes, how to prepare for them and I was already familiar with Bond’s campus and where some of the key buildings are.
My advice
To anyone thinking about enrolling in the program, my advice is to do it! Bond has so many resources and provides support to help you through it. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, there’s a number of people you can contact. The key to success in this program is time management and planning ahead, if you can do this you will find the program a breeze! It’s by no means meant to be an easy thing to do, otherwise everyone would do it! But it does prove that if you can do it you are an extremely determined and intelligent individual.
My top 5 reasons to be a Student for a Semester
It’s not as scary as you think
You will meet so many incredible people
It’s a real university subject, and a real university experience
You’ll gain so much confidence
Moving on to university won’t be as intimidating
Student for a Semester Program
The program gives high achieving year 11 and 12 students the opportunity to gain an authentic university experience before they finish high school.