From scientist to legal expert
The lecturers are practicing professionals; they teach complex concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. It’s incredible how quickly you go from not knowing anything to really becoming an expert.
Simon Long
Graduate Diploma in Migration Law
Simon Long reveals how his own experience in migration was the catalyst for a rewarding career change.
“I’d been living in the US for ten years working in the science field with marine mammals when I felt drawn to come home for a career change.
It seems like a big shift to migration law, but my two careers have a common thread – I value helping those who are vulnerable.
Having been through the migration process in the US when I settled there, I understood how difficult it is. I could only imagine how hard it would be for people whose first language isn’t English.
I pursued postgraduate migration law studies at VU to become a registered migration agent and worked casually while I studied. I managed it all thanks to my supportive boss and a timetable that included weekend classes.
The course offered practical learning experiences like simulated consultations, and with the intensive approach, you fit a lot into a short time. The lecturers are practicing professionals; they teach complex concepts in a way that’s really easy to understand. It’s incredible how quickly you go from not knowing anything to really becoming an expert.
One of the best things about the course is the tight-knit networks you build with classmates – four of us started our successful migration law company SeekVisa together four years ago. We now have a staff of 12, consisting of migration agents, lawyers, translators and education consultants in Australia, New Zealand and Canada.”