Why did you choose your field of research?
Through high school I never really knew what I wanted to do, and always had people suggesting things they thought that I would be good at. During the HSC I was taking Chemistry, and we did a topic on Forensics. It was always something that I was interested in but never realised that you could actually have a career in. I did some research and ended up in criminology, which when I started studying felt like I had found my home.
You are currently a PhD candidate in law, could you tell us more about your PhD, and do you have a surprising or fun fact to share from your research?
My PhD is entitled “Lessons for Australia in Response to Wrongful Convictions”, I am researching ways in which Australia can learn from our overseas counterparts of the United States and United Kingdom about how to respond to wrongful convictions. I specifically am focusing on the work of innocence initiatives and the criminal case review commission.
One surprising fact that I have found out so far into my research is that there have been 375 exonerations in the United States directly attributed to the work of innocence initiatives, however, there have been none attributed to innocence initiatives in Australia.
As well as being a student you are a Case Supervisor for the University of Newcastle Justice Clinic, what is it about this work that you enjoy?
The University of Newcastle Justice Clinic is one of five innocence initiatives operating within Australia at the moment. It is wonderful to be a part of something that is so rewarding and fulfilling. I truly enjoy being able to assist individuals who have no other avenues left for appeal within the criminal justice system as well as supporting our students who complete their placement with us.
What do you believe is most important about the study you undertake?
I believe that my research is important as it is currently extremely topical within both academia and mainstream media as we saw the release of Kathleen Folbigg in 2023 who was known worldwide as Australia’s worst female serial killer. Individuals in the same position as Kathleen deserve to have support and guidance through these tough and unknown avenues, so being able to highlight and share the knowledge of organisations to assist is so rewarding and important.
You recently participated on our ATN Frontiers Panel at The University of Newcastle HDR Student Festival, can you tell us about the Frontiers courses you have undertaken and what it has added to your PhD experience?
I have completed the Future of Leadership and Future of Collaboration modules, and I am currently enrolled to complete the Future of Project Management in the upcoming teaching quarter. I am required as part of my PhD scholarship to participate in at least two of the ATN Frontiers courses, hence how I found out about the organisation. I feel personally that the courses have provided support and development for me to feel confident in my abilities and future.
How much time do you spend on a university campus? What excites you about working within a university campus?
Throughout my undergraduate studies I was on campus 4 days a week, but now in my postgraduate studies it is more like 2-3. I truly love having a space away from home that I can use to dedicate to my studies, it keeps you motivated and ensures that home stays as a separate place from your studies.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing higher education in Australia?
I think that the biggest challenge at the moment is funding and being able to be stable within today’s economy while also focusing on your studies. I believe that more needs to be done to be able to help individuals achieve their study goals to better not only themselves but our workforce for the future.
Do you have a hobby?
As if I don’t do enough of it with my PhD, my hobby is definitely reading. I love just being able to escape reality for a short period of time and indulge in stories both fiction and non-fiction. Recently, I have also been really enjoying just going for a walk to get out of the house and enjoy the fresh air. It has been an easy way to take a short break throughout my workday.
Can you tell us of a book, film or TV show you recently read or watched that you would recommend and why?
My recommendation would be the book series by Jane Harper involving the character Aaron Falk, “The Dry”, “Force of Nature, and “The Lost Man”. The series is Australian and based on investigation of murders and disappearances of individuals which in turn connects small country town communities. The stories really keep you hanging on until the end and are truly easy and incredible reads. The first two books have also been made into movies in the last couple of years so it’s the best of both worlds for movie watchers and book readers!
What’s your dream holiday destination and why?
My dream holiday destination is Italy! For years I have been mesmerised by their architecture, cultures and food. With my favourite food being pasta, it is almost a given that I need to go to the land of the best pasta.
What would you say to a student about to begin their higher education journey?
Firstly, to be prepared, have a calendar of all your assessments, classes and anything else you need to remember. This is key to staying on top of your workload and not ending up stressed about potentially forgetting something. Secondly, to enjoy every moment of it! It may not feel like it at the start, but time moves so fast and next thing you know you will be at graduation. Engage with as much of the university lifestyle as you can and ensure to have time for yourself away from your studies.
