Courtesy Hannah Pola
We asked Hannah Pola, who is studying a Bachelor of Arts / Law majoring in Politics and International Relations, to answer five quick questions about her study path.
Her advice for others thinking of taking on a double degree? "Think of the degrees as the two circles of a Venn diagram. If your passion lies at their intersect, go for it – you could end up working in either of the 'circles'! Studying a double degree gives you so many opportunities to transfer your university studies to the real world."
What inspired you to pursue your double degree?
I was really interested in the intersection of law, human rights and global affairs, so my grandfather encouraged me to consider a double degree to explore both the legal and social sides of my passions while at university.
What are you hoping to do after graduation?
I'm hoping to work in legal advocacy and policy reform, focused on refugee rights and community development. I know that whatever I do, I want to be engaging directly with people who are most impacted by the law, contributing to inclusive and resilient communities!
What’s been the most rewarding part of studying two disciplines at once?
I had the opportunity to do an Arts research course in Vanuatu as part of the New Colombo Plan, which was a great opportunity to practically see the intersection of my two disciplines. Everything clicked: my studies in law gave me the tools to understand how legal frameworks shape development outcomes, while my Arts studies gave me the analytical lenses to reflect on the justice, equity and impact of resource allocations.
How do you balance the workload and mindset shifts between the two fields?
Both law and politics and international relations are, at their core, about justice and the way the world works, so there isn't too much of a mindset shift beyond differences in analysis style. The workload is intense though! Google Calendar is my best friend to manage it, but I also invest in other things in my life, like church and refereeing football, that remind me there's so much more than the workload of my degree.
What is a highlight of your time at UNSW?
I have loved being involved with Campus Bible Study and the friendships I've made at UNSW! My passion for justice comes from my personal experience of God's love, so the ability to grow in my spiritual knowledge alongside my academic knowledge is something I am so grateful for. I think uni is a really unique opportunity to explore our values and what gives us certainty for the future through extracurriculars, and so I strongly encourage everyone to get involved in campus life at uni!