Randwick law student Iris Thompson, a fourth year Bachelor of Medical Science and Bachelor of Laws student, is one of only three recipients of the Tresscox Lawyers scholarship. The annual scholarship is judged on academic record, financial need and personal circumstances and is worth $2,000 and an invitation to a first round interview for the Tresscox summer clerkship program.

The scholarship is a great advantage to a young lawyer looking to move into a commercial law firm, said Thompson. “On the practical side, I’m determined to have a career in commercial law and the summer clerkship program is the best way into a law firm,” she said.

There is a perception that entering a top commercial law firm is a rigorous and competitive challenge, said Thompson. “Many top-tier and mid-tier law firms recruit the majority of their graduates from their ex-summer clerks and thousands of law students a year apply for the summer clerkship program. Considering the amount of competition, being given this head start by Tresscox Lawyers could make quite a difference,” she said.

Family and friends of Thompson worry that the young student’s life is too hectic, but according to the student herself, this energy and drive are what allowed to her receive the prestigious scholarship. The scholarship, she said, shows that others understand the difficulties young students can face during their studies. As well, such accolades “[encourage] us not to let these difficulties get in the way of achieving our absolute best”.

Thompson is in the semi-finals for the Law Students’ Society Mooting Competition, is fundraising coordinator of the UTS Music Society and publications office of the UTS United Nations Society. As well, she works part time in a law firm.

“My family and friends think I’m crazy for leading such a hectic life, and then always adding more to it, but that’s just the way I work,” she said.

“I don’t ever think that I have too much on my plate, instead I’m always mindful of what new things I can become involved in, what opportunities are lying in wait, and all the amazing people whom I can meet along the way.”