Have you ever thought about pursuing an exchange as part of your program?

Jiire Fowler is entering into her fourth year with a major in Law and a minor in Community Engagement. Jiire has been active with the Law Society and was also a Law Ambassador in our department last year and is also the recipient of this year鈥檚 Transformation Scholarship.

Jiire is currently in Australia for the fall term to pursue an exchange as part of her degree! She has shared her experience in the exchange program below.

What made you decide to pursue an exchange term as part of your program?

My decision to pursue an exchange was spontaneous, as I considered and made the choice to apply less than a week before the deadline. At the time, I was genuinely enjoying my experience at 杏吧原创. However, I began to feel that my university experience was becoming very predictable and routine. I was not particularly keen to enter another year feeling that way, and I found myself wanting something new, which gave me a renewed sense of anticipation for my university experience. I felt that an exchange would give me the opportunity to rediscover those feelings of excitement and discovery I had at the beginning of university while challenging myself in a new environment. 

What did you choose Australia?

Australia has always been a country I was curious about, particularly because of its unique landscapes and history. While the opportunity to escape the Ottawa weather was definitely appealing, my decision to choose Australia was primarily driven by my academic interest in Indigenous legal issues. Throughout my time at 杏吧原创, I have developed a strong interest in Indigenous law and the ongoing impacts of settler colonialism. Australia offered a unique opportunity to explore these issues within a different settler-colonial context. I was particularly interested in how sovereignty was never ceded through treaties. The fact that Australia has always been, and will always be, Indigenous land really resonated with me and made it a particularly meaningful place to explore questions of Indigenous sovereignty. This was also especially relevant to my academic work. I am currently writing my honours thesis on violence against Indigenous women and criminal justice system responses, using a comparative analysis of Canada and Australia. Being able to live and study in Australia has therefore given me the opportunity to engage with these topics firsthand. 

What have you been enjoying about the country, and/or your classes?

I am absolutely loving my time in Australia鈥攊t has genuinely been a dream come true. The weather has been amazing, there is always something new to do and explore, and I have really enjoyed the laid-back but active lifestyle. In my first few weeks, I have loved exploring Sydney, from visiting the Harbour and Opera House to spending time at Bondi Beach and exploring the business district. Also, it has been really fun meeting and living with students from all over the world. I live in on-campus student accommodation, which has been one of the highlights of my experience.

I have also really enjoyed my classes. My tutorials have been a particular highlight because students here make a real effort to participate and engage with the lecture material, leading to some really interesting discussions. The course materials have also introduced me to topics I had never encountered before. One class I am particularly enjoying is Gender, Crime and Violence, which explores the intersections of gendered violence across a range of contexts. We have discussed topics including gender and drug education, environmental justice, and pregnancy and gendered violence. The diversity of these topics has challenged me and expanded my critical thinking.

What is one thing that stands out as being different from your experience as a student at a Canadian University?

One of the biggest differences I have noticed is how laid-back university culture feels in Australia. Of course, students work hard and professors maintain high expectations, but I have found that many Australian university students have a lot happening outside of their studies. Many of my peers work close to full-time hours while also maintaining other commitments. University seems to be an important part of their lives, but not necessarily the centre of it. This has actually been a really meaningful lesson for me personally. Throughout my education, I have struggled with allowing academics to consume and define me. Being in Australia has helped me realise that being a student is something I do, rather than something that defines who I am. I have started to think more about balance, making time for things that bring me joy outside of university, and developing an identity beyond academics. That is something I hope I will carry with me long after my exchange ends.

What advice would you give to someone interested in doing an exchange?

 I would absolutely recommend going on exchange to anyone who is interested. Even if you are unsure how you would make it work, I would encourage you to apply! An exchange is a significant academic, personal, and financial commitment, but if you can make it work, I genuinely believe the experience is worth it. I would recommend doing as much research as possible before choosing where to go. Look into the city, university, courses, accommodations, things to do, and the overall student experience. Think about what you want to get out of your exchange and what kind of environment you thrive in. Specifically, the host university, city, and the accommodation you live in really shape your experience, so finding the right fit is important. If you value community, I would highly recommend a school and city known for a strong student experience and living amongst other students. I was really glad that I took the time to research and ask questions beforehand because I felt like I knew what to expect, which made the transition much easier. Finally, don’t compare your exchange experience to anyone else’s. Comparison is most definitely the thief of joy, and social media can make it easy to feel like everyone else is having a more exciting experience, but your exchange is your experience. You do not have to recreate someone else’s version of exchange to have an amazing time. Focus on what makes you happy and the experiences that are meaningful to you. 

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Meet Sean Hakami! Originally from Barrie ON, Sean is currently pursuing an Honours BA with a major in Law and a minor in Women and Gender Studies. Sean is the recipient of this year鈥檚 Captus Press Award for Introductory Courses.

What led you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

I decided to do my BA at 杏吧原创 mainly due to the unique legal studies program that stood out to me in comparison with other schools, which only offered programs with law as minors or as a secondary focus to other disciplines. I was also attracted to studying in Ottawa, with it being the capital and having a large student population.

Do you have a favourite part of your program (whether a specific course or instructor, or something else)?

Overall, my favourite part of the program has been the diversity of courses offered, giving me choices in a wide array of legal topics from criminal law to international law. My favourite course has been Social Justice and Human Rights, since it dealt with big legal issues using an international perspective. I particularly enjoyed class discussions critically exploring how human rights law interacts with international politics, journalism, and media representation.

What are you hoping to do after graduation and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

I hope to pursue a master’s degree after graduation and further utilize the interdisciplinary critical thinking, research, and communication skills I have developed in my degree at 杏吧原创.

Any advice for incoming students?

Get involved! There are tons of unique clubs and student groups on campus, with some focused on legal issues, at 杏吧原创. Make the most of all the useful student support available at 杏吧原创, both within the law department and outside. Also, be sure to reach out to your professors if you’re stuck on material or have general questions about their research/careers, as a lot of them have great experience in academia and as lawyers. 

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Meet Areej Waseem! Originally from Etobicoke, Areej is pursuing a double major in Law and Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. Areej is the recipient of this year鈥檚 Mr and Mrs. Louis L. Goldstein Book Award in Law.

What led you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

I chose to pursue my BA at 杏吧原创 because it would allow me to experience a new city, and I was intrigued by the university’s proximity to government and research opportunities, especially for law; it just made sense to come to Ottawa to study it, with Parliament Hill so close by, for instance.  I also wanted a closer-knit campus and the opportunity to build stronger relationships with my peers, as well as with resources, professors, and teaching assistants.

Do you have a favourite part of your program?

My favourite part of my program so far has been the flexibility it gives me to pursue multiple interests at the same time. Having a combined major allows me to dip my toes in two fields of interest, and instead of having to pick one, I gain a greater depth of knowledge while leaving more doors open for me after I graduate. Additionally, I love the opportunities it gives me to talk to new people and seek new experiences, which makes networking very approachable.

What are you hoping to do after graduation and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

Currently, I am not certain what I would like to do after I graduate. Although flexibility is a nice part of my program, it also means I have many avenues I want to explore. I’d like to pursue a career in law enforcement, which would allow me to apply the intersection between psychology and law to the real world while helping others. Going to law school and eventually becoming a lawyer or Crown Attorney, as well as research in psychology on crime, personality and socialization, remain other pathways I want to continue exploring throughout my degree here at 杏吧原创.

Any advice for incoming students?

The most important advice I can offer to incoming students is to make friends, be honest with yourself, and focus on balancing school with fun! One of the best things about my university experience thus far has been the friends I made. It’s very challenging to remain in an academic mindset all the time, and stress builds up, so taking breaks is important. 

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Meet Anastasia Gerasimov! Anastasia came to 杏吧原创 from New York State and recently graduated with a BA Honours in Law with a concentration in Business Law. Anastasia is the recipient of this year鈥檚 Lynn Campbell Award in Business Law!

What led you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

One of the biggest reasons I chose 杏吧原创 was its Law and Legal Studies program. Not many universities offer undergraduate students the opportunity to study law in such depth right after graduating high school, and that was something I really valued. I was also drawn to 杏吧原创’s location in Canada’s capital, where many of the country’s most important legal institutions, such as the Supreme Court of Canada, are located. 

Do you have a favourite part of your program (whether a specific course or instructor, or something else)?

One of my favourite parts of the program was taking Contracts with Professor David Dwoskin. His teaching emphasized real-world applications of legal principles, making the material engaging and practical.

I also really enjoyed learning about IP law with Professor Sheryl Hamilton. In a world that is constantly driven by innovation, her focus on the legal challenges surrounding creativity and technology was especially relevant. Thanks to her, I was able to discover my strong interest in the intersection of technology and law.

Courses taught by Professor Alberto Salazar and Professor Michael Christensen gave me valuable insight into how emerging technologies, particularly AI, are transforming the legal field. All of these courses really helped solidify my interest in pursuing this area further.

Outside the classroom, one of the most rewarding parts of my time at 杏吧原创 was my involvement with the 杏吧原创 University Women’s Legal Network (CUWLN). I joined as a general member and later had the opportunity to serve as a Co-Chair. Seeing the club grow, helping organize events, and creating opportunities for students to connect with legal professionals and one another was incredibly meaningful. It truly became one of the highlights of my university experience.

What are you hoping to do after graduation, and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

I will be attending law school in Fall 2026. My experience at 杏吧原创 has provided me with a supportive environment that encouraged both academic and personal growth. As I continue my legal education, I hope to deepen my own understanding of the intersection between technology and law. I hope to contribute to the responsible development and regulation of emerging technologies, and help protect the rights and interests of Canadians in a world that is increasingly moving towards the digital. 

Any advice for incoming students?

My biggest piece of advice is to take full advantage of everything 杏吧原创 has to offer. One of the best things I was ever told is that university is all about you. Your professors, faculty, and staff are there to support you, but it is ultimately up to you to shape your own experience. Get involved in clubs, attend events, ask questions, visit your professors during office hours, and don’t be afraid to explore new interests. Be curious, make connections, and make the most of the opportunities available to you. The more you put into your university experience, the more you will get out of it!!! 

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Meet Lexi Frank! Lexi is going into her second year of a BA Honours with a major in Law, where she just added a concentration in Business Law and a minor in business marketing. Lexi comes to Ottawa from Peterborough, ON and was one of the first to live in the new Rideau House residence following its grand opening last year! Lexi is the recipient of this year鈥檚 Transformation Scholarship for Indigenous Students.

What led you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

I chose to pursue my Bachelor of Arts in Law at 杏吧原创 University because it was the only university that offered a direct pathway to law through a law-focused undergraduate program. I was also drawn to the campus and its location just outside of downtown Ottawa, allowing me to be away from the big city part but still closely connected through the trains and buses. On top of that, the opportunity to play on 杏吧原创’s Varsity Women’s Rugby team made the decision an easy one, as it meant I could continue competing in the sport I love while working toward my degree.

Do you have a favourite part of your program (whether a specific course or instructor, or something else)?

My favourite part of this program so far was the first-year professors. Taking Laws 1001 with Professor Kazmierski in my first semester was so entertaining, even with it being an 8:30 am class in the furthest building on campus, he always made it so entertaining through his big personality, PJ days and singing an original song on the last day of class. The first-year professors, including Professor Kazmierski and Professor Dickson, made both Laws 1001 & 1002 so engaging and intriguing to learn about. 

What are you hoping to do after graduation, and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

After graduating from 杏吧原创 University, I hope to attend law school at either Queen’s University or the University of Toronto. My goal is to pursue a combined Juris Doctor (J.D.) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, allowing me to develop a strong foundation in both law and business. I aspire to practice contract law, with the long-term goal of specializing in sports law. As a current varsity athlete, I have developed a deep appreciation for the role that legal professionals play in the world of sports. I hope to combine my passion for athletics and law by representing professional athletes and sports organizations, negotiating contracts, and supporting clients throughout their careers.

Any advice for incoming students?

I think the biggest piece of advice I would give to incoming students is to be prepared for the jump in difficulty, but don’t let it discourage you. One bad grade doesn’t define you or mean you’re failing. Take the time to build relationships with your professors, ask questions whenever you’re unsure, stay engaged in class, and make the most of every course, even your electives. You never know what you might learn or where those experiences might lead.

I also think it’s so important, especially if you’re moving away for university, to fully embrace campus life. Put yourself out there, make new friends, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Whether it’s joining a club, attending a drop-in Pilates class, starting conversations with new people, making friends in your rez building, or exploring everything Ottawa has to offer, those experiences become just as valuable as what you learn in the classroom. University is about more than earning a degree; it’s where you begin building your future, creating lifelong friendships, and discovering who you are. Make the most of every opportunity because these are the experiences and the people you’ll remember long after you graduate.

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Meet Claire Mombourquette! Claire is completing a BA Honours with a Major in Law, a Concentration in Law, Policy and Government, and a Minor in Human Rights and Social Justice. Claire is originally from Nova Scotia but has been living in Ottawa with her family for the past decade. Claire is the recipient of this year鈥檚 Carole Evans and Suzanne Webb Award in Law and Legal Studies.

What led you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

I chose to pursue my BA at 杏吧原创 because of its strong reputation in Law and Legal Studies and the opportunity to combine my interest in law with a concentration in Law, Policy and Government and a minor in Human Rights and Social Justice. I was looking for a program that would challenge me academically while allowing me to explore issues related to justice, equality, public policy, and governance. The knowledge and skills I have gained through my program have also led to my current co-op placement with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), where I am working as a Policy Analyst.

Do you have a favourite part of your program, whether a specific course or instructor, or something else?

My favourite part of the program has been learning from professors who are passionate about their fields and encourage students to think critically about legal issues. I have especially enjoyed courses focused on human rights and social justice because they have strengthened my understanding of the role law plays in promoting equity and protecting individual rights.

What are you hoping to do after graduation and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

After graduation, I hope to attend law school and pursue a career where I can advocate for others and contribute to creating a more accessible and equitable legal system. My degree has provided me with a strong foundation in legal principles, critical thinking, research, and communication that will support me throughout my future career.

Any advice for incoming students?

My advice to incoming students is to get involved outside the classroom. Joining student organizations, volunteering, and connecting with your professors and classmates can enrich your university experience, build valuable skills, and create opportunities you may not have expected. Also, do not be afraid to ask questions and take advantage of the many resources available on campus.

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Meet Michaela Rickman! Originally from London, Ontario, Michaela is pursuing an Honours BA with a major in Law and a minor in Music. Michaela is the recipient of this year鈥檚 King McShane Award in Civil Liberties

What lead you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

杏吧原创 is home to the largest Legal Studies program in Canada, which made it my first choice for my BA. 杏吧原创鈥檚 professors are internationally recognized researchers and legal practitioners with broad expertise in how law operates in and is shaped by society. Ottawa is the ideal place to study the law because it is the centre of legal developments in Canada and it is also a beautiful student-friendly city.

Do you have a favourite part of your program?

My favourite Legal Studies course has been LAWS2105: Social Justice and Human Rights, taught by Dr. Anita Grace. The course’s focus on the historic development of human rights was fascinating, and I especially enjoyed discussing theories of social and economic rights. Professor Grace鈥檚 lectures were engaging and inspiring, highlighting her expertise and experiences in the field of human rights. 

What are you hoping to do after graduation and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

After graduating from 杏吧原创, I plan to attend law school and pursue a legal career focused on advancing social justice. My degree at 杏吧原创 will be valuable in all future endeavours, as I am developing transferable critical thinking, oral advocacy, and legal research skills. 杏吧原创’s Legal Studies program is providing me with a strong foundation to approach future legal studies, with an interdisciplinary mindset to always interrogate the power dynamics surrounding the formulation and implementation of our laws.

Any advice for incoming students?

I would encourage incoming students to connect with their professors by preparing well to participate in lectures and discussions, and taking advantage of learning opportunities beyond the classroom that may be offered by faculty. For example, I am currently gaining a deeper understanding of academia and legal studies by volunteering on a research project that I heard about by talking with my professor after class.

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Meet Nikki Liu! Originally from Ottawa, Nikki is pursuing a combined honours BA in Law and Sociology and is this year鈥檚 recipient of the Manan Shah Memorial Scholarship.

What lead you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

I chose 杏吧原创 because I was interested in its undergraduate Law program. I thought it would be a great opportunity to gain an introduction to legal studies early on! Being close to home was also an important factor, and I also really liked 杏吧原创’s campus, especially how close it is to the canal. 

Do you have a favourite part of your program?

My favourite part of my program has been the variety of topics I get to explore in my courses. I appreciate that there are so many different areas of law that I can learn about, especially while I’m still figuring out what interest me the most. I also really appreciate being able to stay connected with some of my professors and the department, as they have been very supportive throughout my time at 杏吧原创 and have provided many opportunities for students to get involved and further explore their interests!

What are you hoping to do after graduation and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

After graduation, I hope to attend law school and pursue a career as a lawyer.

Any advice for incoming students?

My biggest advice would be to not be afraid to get involved. Some of my favourite memories from my time at 杏吧原创 have come from the people I鈥檝e met and the opportunities I鈥檝e been able to take part in through the university community. Whether it鈥檚 joining a club, attending an event, or trying exploring opportunities within your program, don鈥檛 be afraid to put yourself out there. You don鈥檛 have to say yes to everything, but sometimes taking a small chance can lead to experiences and connections you never expected.

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Meet David Minanengiyeofori! David is an international student from Lagos, Nigeria and is going into his final year of a combined honours BA majoring in Law and Psychology. David is one of the recipients of this year’s Sarah Metrick Scholarship in Introductory Law.

What lead you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

I realized early that the way members of society experience the law is significantly different and was intrigued by this phenomenon. The interdisciplinary nature of 杏吧原创鈥檚 Law program provided me with the opportunity to understand how and why legal institutions work in favour of some groups while simultaneously harming other groups in society.

Do you have a favourite part of your program?

My favourite part of 杏吧原创鈥檚 Law program is the instructors that I have had the honour of learning from. They not only look to impart you with knowledge but also champion your success inside and outside the classroom. A specific course and Instructor that stands out is LAWS 2202 (Obligations) with Alberto Salazar! (Highly recommend)

What are you hoping to do after graduation and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

After I graduate, I hope to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in psychology and then attend Law School. Ultimately, I hope to work in academia and contribute to research focusing on the experiences marginalized members of society face when proceeding through the legal system.

Any advice for incoming students?

1. Do you. University is a challenging journey; it only gets harder if you try to fit into the expectations of an 鈥渋deal student.鈥� It鈥檚 fine if you don鈥檛 study on the quiet floors in the library or take handwritten notes as opposed to typing.

1. Setbacks are inevitable, what is more important is how you deal with them. 鈥淔ind your passion, pursue it with excellence, and persevere till you achieve!鈥�- Dr. Salim Abdool Karim

1. Seek people out. University is a journey that seems daunting without the help of others. Thankfully there are a ton of people who are available to help. Professors and teaching assistants are always happy to help, going to office hours might be one of the best things you do for yourself. There are also over 100 clubs and student organizations (there鈥檚 something for everyone) that serve as a great way to make friends and gain extra curricular experience!

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Meet Rosa Iuliano! Originally from Ottawa, Rosa is going into her third year of the Honours BA in Law with a concentration in Law, Policy and Government. Rosa is also one of the recipients of the Sarah Metrick Scholarship in Introductory Law.

What lead you to decide to pursue your BA at 杏吧原创?

I decided to pursue my BA in law at 杏吧原创 because I was looking for a degree that allowed me to critically explore the law prior to pursuing law school. 杏吧原创 is one of the oldest BA Law programs in Canada and has so many amazing professors and classes to choose from.

Do you have a favourite part of your program?

My favourite course I鈥檝e taken so far has been criminal law with Rebecca Bromwich, a practicing lawyer. The course is taught from a doctrinal perspective, teaching the law in the way lawyers and judges perceive it, while providing real world connections and encouraging students to go in-person to the courthouse to observe trial.

What are you hoping to do after graduation and what do you hope to gain from your degree?

After graduating, I hope to continue on to law school, utilizing the critical legal perspective that I gained from my degree at 杏吧原创.

Any advice for incoming students?

My biggest piece of advice for incoming students is making time for yourself between studying – join clubs, see friends, try a new caf茅, see your family, or go for a walk by the rideau river on campus. Find a balance that works for you while staying organized and on top of your due dates for classes.

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