Dakota Rowles testimonial - Building a legal career to make a difference

Words: Alba de Sadaba
Published: 25 November 2024

Proud Indigenous woman Dakota Rowles recently crossed the stage at 海角视频's Lismore graduation. It was her first but unlikely to be her last time.

With a fresh Associate Degree of Law (Paralegal Studies) testamur in her hands, Dakota is even more motivated to complete her second rodeo: a Bachelor of Laws.

“While studying the Bachelor of Legal and Justice, I commenced working as a paralegal and soon realised that I wanted to expand my knowledge and learn more in-depth about the legal system, so I switched degrees. The Associate Degree of Law helped me develop skills such as research and critical thinking. I am currently studying full-time the Bachelor of Laws with a year and a half to go, while working full-time as a paralegal,” said Dakota.

Dakota’s willingness to pursue social justice is taking her to new heights. It is not by chance that her commitment and determination run so deep; it’s in her blood, literally.

“I have always been passionate about social justice and intrigued by how the legal system works to bring change. Growing up, I watched my mother study law, and that made my interest in the field grow. My mother is an amazing role model to me; watching her made me realise that my passion really is to help people,” said Dakota.

Dakota’s relationship with 海角视频 dates back to high school. In Year 11, she successfully completed a unit through the 海角视频 Cross Scholars program, which gave her a direct pathway into a 海角视频 Cross degree. “I would strongly recommend this opportunity to students in their senior years of high school,” said Dakota.

When it comes to juggling responsibilities of full-time work and study, the 海角视频 Cross Model has proved a winner for Dakota. “I think the 海角视频 Cross Model is great, the workload is broken down into parts to allow students to focus on each subject for a shorter period. This is extremely beneficial for someone like me who is juggling many responsibilities.”

“Balancing a full-time job and full-time study is manageable with great time management and prioritising your workload. I create a calendar for the month with upcoming assignments or tasks and create a to-do list each week. I am fortunate to have my mother, who keeps me sane, and I have an amazing family support unit.”

The juggle might be tricky sometimes, but the effort always pays off. Working as a paralegal has been an enriching learning experience for Dakota. Her job consists of legal research, drafting documents, and supporting lawyers for upcoming cases. “This has given me a hands-on opportunity to understand what it’s like to be a lawyer and work in a law firm. I find that what I’ve learnt so far has been useful for legal writing and knowing case law,” she said.

Dakota with her laptop on Gold Coast campus

The flexibility of online study has proved a winner for Dakota. “I love being an online student. This allows me to work in the field and gain experience and I can watch the tutorials after work in my own time whilst keeping up to date. I occasionally attend campus and I’m always impressed by the facilities, especially with the opportunity to study whilst looking over the amazing ocean views. The library and its facilities are my favourites. It provides many quiet spaces and rooms for students 24/7, which I greatly benefit from. Having 24-hour access allows me to attend campus after work and on weekends,” said Dakota.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have access to the Indigenous Australian Student Services (IASS), which strives to provide these students with the service and support they need before and during their higher education journey.

“I am extremely grateful for the IASS. The support I receive is absolutely incredible, the IASS Officers continue to provide information and advice to me. I am fortunate to receive support from the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS). I have one specific tutor who has supported me through many semesters and is an incredible support to me, my learning has developed immensely,” said Dakota.

Such a trajectory can only lead to a bright future. Dakota plans to continue gaining experience and knowledge as a paralegal and eventually to create positive change in our legal system.

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