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Supreme Court-recognised law graduate looks to the skies
A new law graduate based in Melbourne has been awarded the 2021 Supreme Court Prize for academic excellence for his dedication to both law and aviation.
Naomi Neilson
The Honourable Chief Justice Anne Ferguson has praised Swinburne University’s bachelor of laws and bachelor of aviation management graduate Ryan Hill and seven others from the state’s top universities for their “determination and resilience” during their final year, which involved disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Mr Hill told the university that the achievement was the “perfect way to finish his degree” and that he was “surprised and honoured to have been recognised”.
In addition to a six-month trip to Indonesia to learn more about international law, Mr Hill spent his time at Swinburne with the Law Student Society and Aviation Society, airport tours, industry panels and mooting competitions. It was his time spent in another country that was the “most significant highlight” of his studies.
“This experience took me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to learn a great deal about myself and my place in the world. I was able to make lifelong friendships and spend six months travelling a part of the world I never would have otherwise,” he said.
As part of his degree, Mr Hill completed placements at two law firms and one with an aviation insurance underwriter. The university said this allowed him the opportunity to “explore various aspects of the two industries” he was most interested in.
“One of the most valuable parts of my experience at Swinburne has been the genuine focus on teaching in a real-world context. Instead of just receiving lectures, our learning is constantly enriched by practical skills, industry exposure and real-world applications,” Mr Hill commented.
