Passion for law leads to global study experience
From Beijing to Los Angeles, Brisbane to Adelaide, Zeyang has studied all over the world but chose to pursue his passion for law here at the University of Adelaide.
While an unconventional choice (Australian law cannot be practised in his home country of China), Zeyang believes his cultural intelligence, hard work and determination will see him go far in Adelaide and beyond, no matter which career direction he takes.
We spoke with Zeyang about his university experience so far, and what his plans are for the future.
Tell us about your journey to get to the University of Adelaide
I love exploring new things and am always on the lookout for a new experience. I studied for my high school diploma in Brisbane and decided to try Adelaide for my tertiary studies - by far the best decision I have ever made!
Why did you choose to study at the University of Adelaide?
I received a couple of offers (some with scholarships) in South Australia and Queensland. However, the Adelaide Uni offer was more appealing to me (I received the Global Citizens Scholarship).
Why did you choose your degree?
I’m currently studying my Bachelor of Laws. I’ve been wanting to do law since I was in grade 11. Back in grade 10, I had some trouble picking senior subjects. I approached a senior friend of mine and she thought I would be a great fit for law and highly recommended me to do ‘Legal Studies’. A semester in, I was in love with the content and decided to pursue a career in law.
I’m genuinely interested in Law. I love trying new things and am naturally curious about things I don’t know too much about. As the only one in the family pursuing law, I want to break new ground and see what the future holds for me…… the unknown is not always bad and sometimes all you need is a step forward.
What are you enjoying most about your degree?
If you ask me whether I’m enjoying this degree thus far, the answer is a big YES! When I’m doing class projects, for example, it’s almost guaranteed that I am working with an Australian or someone from a different cultural background than mine. The degree has become a binding agent for me to integrate better and brings great dialogue between me and my peers as their curiosity often leads to lasting relationships for that semester and beyond.
Breaking new ground always come with uncertainty. Challenging norms will always be harder than following them. But if you know what you want to do, and believe in what you value, there’s nothing to stop you here at the University of Adelaide. Zeyang Wang
How do you think a degree from The University of Adelaide will assist your future career?
I see this experience as a unique opportunity to explore what I truly want in life rather than a paper to leverage a promising career. Listening to the giants in my field widens my senses and interacting with peers with similar ambition fuels my prospects in life.
In my opinion, no matter what job I get or what career path I choose in the future, what I’ve gained throughout my uni years will greatly determine how successful I’ll be and how far I go.
What are your top 3 favourite things about being a university student?
- Watching recorded lectures on double speed
- Panic Cramming with friends during exams
- 20k students = 20k possible new friends and opportunities
What are your top 3 favourite things about your life in Adelaide?
- Adelaide is small and quiet which helps me focus more on my studies.
- People have much closer proximity to each other which makes you feel valued and provides a sense of belonging.
- Weather! Weather! Weather! The winter is so comfortably cool! But summer is still burning hot though…..
What was the best piece of advice you received about adapting to university life?
“Uni is like a mini-society, forget about the right and wrong answers in high school or the ATAR score. Things can be approached from many angles and your grades are not the most essential aspect of success.”
What advice would you give to other international students starting their studies in Adelaide?
Think before you speak and make sure to always ask intelligent questions. While no question is a silly question, asking intellectual questions can challenge your mind and leave as much room for growth as possible.
What is your job role now and what are your plans for the future?
I am currently working 3 jobs!
- Concierge/Porter at the InterContinental Hotel Adelaide.
- Student Service Officer at Ask Adelaide.
- Private tutor for Senior English and Maths
I’m very much a people person. All of my job experiences have helped me to keep my fingers on the pulse of the wider market. In the near future, would like to have a diverse range of experiences that are evolving, dynamic and highly transferable before I dive into my law career in my senior year ahead.
Zeyang is just one of our vibrant international community members here at the University of Adelaide. If you’re looking to start your studies in Australia but don’t know where to start, visit our Travelling to Australia page or get in touch with our Future Student Team.