Bond Bench Press - 4th Edition

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BENCH PRESS Mooting 101 60 Seconds with... Introducing The ALSA Committee Resume Tips from Corrs Law Firm

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LSA's Bench Press

Transcript of Bond Bench Press - 4th Edition

Page 1: Bond Bench Press - 4th Edition

BENCH PRESS

Mooting 101 60 Seconds with...Introducing The ALSA CommitteeResume Tips from Corrs Law Firm

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Letter from the Editor

Hi Bondies,

The semester is racing along faster than Tomic can drive his BMW. So strap yourselves in for a big ride in the law faculty this semester with:

-the launch of the 2012 Career’s Guide;-a casual BBQ and Beats;-a massive Grudgeweek;-a new event - ‘A Lawesome Night In’; -the most prestigious event of the year, Brian Orr; and the crowd pleaser, Protrackstination.

In the meantime, feel free to visit us in the LSA Office, whether you want to chat or just heat your lunch in the microwave and chill out on the lounge between classes. We are open Monday-Friday 10:00am-2:00pm.

Also, we love hearing from you - the good, the bad and the ugly. So flick us an email or drop a note in our suggestion box.

Contrib-utors

Brad RamsdenMona Mizikovsky

Naomi Atkinson Alex Myers

Fraser MacDonald Illegally Bond Photos: Liam Bryne

Secretary Spiel

Hello All.This is your Editor in Chief please excuse my tardiness, The LSA’s 2012 Careers Guide got the better part of me this semes-ter. As a result, this edition we have a collage of info and photos collected from the start of sem. Including, 60 Seconds with... the fabulous Civil Procedure Professor Bobette Wolski, Resume Tips from Corrs Lawyers and mooting notes from a Guru. We are however missing a key contributor to our investiga-tive reporting this month. Your absence is recognized--please respond to my emails. I wanted to briefly mention the importance of having a hobby while you are a law student and further a lawyer. I have come to realize this through personal experience (in choosing sanity) and while researching firms for The Guide. A lot of big firms now are looking to hire well-rounded individuals, something smaller firms have forever endorsed. There are a variety of healthy activities you can get involved in. I promise they will compliment your studying and resume not detract.

A few acceptable hobbies include yoga, running, swimming, golf and cooking. These activities will allow you to relax; once you go back to the books you will have clarity and often are more focused. A bonus, these are all activities you can share in common with members of a firm once you begin working.

Some hobbies that are in the gray area are:•Lexting- which is offering legal advice via text message to friends.

•Lawyering- since we arn’t real lawyers yet we can hobby as them. This is done by hanging out on campus and offering the younger semester students advice. Treat them as potential clients and it will improve your overall lawyering techniques.

•Critiquing law movies and television shows is a great way to further your legal vocabulary.

Hobbies not so much recommended to pursue or mention in an interview are personal drinking records and strange collec-tions i.e. stamps and nails. Be proud and share with only close friends.

I hope you enjoy this read on a study break!

If you have any suggestions for future articles or a burning opinion you need to share please email my student account.

(Hank Peters- Top 5 Hobbies for Big Associates)

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Insider Scoop to the Law AwardsMona Mizikovsky Law 113 Awards

Law awards occur every semester and award the first in class prizes as well as acknowledge those students that made the Dean's and Vice Chancellor's Lists of Academic Excellence. On the 8th of February, law nerds united to celebrate their 113 academic accomplishments. These law awards provided an excuse to down a couple of champagnes, chat to lecturers and cel-ebrate the successes of the previous semester. I would be lying if I didn't also admit that they provide an opportunity to personally congratulate our peers (and suss out the competition for next semester).

I wish I had some cool stories from the law awards, like that guy at graduation who forgot to take his certificate from the chancellor after shaking her hand, but I don't. It was an excellent night spent congratulating all the smarties. Special mention to Louise Parsons and Joachim Dietrich who both got mentions as our favourite lecturers from last semester.

Although P's may get degrees I encourage you all to aim higher and bring your ambition to life by winning yourself one of these awards. Not only do you get a cool certificate (and usu-ally a tangible prize) but you get recognised by the faculty and rewarded with free drinks and nibbles. Even if you can't muster the energy (which you should) to slug out those long hours in the lawberry trying to tell the difference between indefensible title and compensatory dam-ages then at least make friends with the prize winning law geeks and they will invite you to the ceremony. It really is a fun night.

BBQ & BEATS 121

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Crimes of FashionTop ten objections regarding student fashion and appearance-Anonymous

I.“Formal dress” does not equate to blue jeans, a button down shirt and your New Balance sneakers. I repeat, you are NOT Steve Jobs (RIP).

II.Backpacks. Should have been surrendered the minute you left high school.

III.A larger mass of facial hair is not an in-dicative of a higher IQ.

IV.Girls, mid-drift baring tops are not acceptable attire. Even if your belly is flat or ample, no one wants a sample.

V.Nothing screams “I’m American/Canadian” more than a backwards cap.

VI.Ugg boots were in fact, derived from the word ugly.

VII.“Bond Law” para-phernalia. Yes, we all know you’re smart. (LSA Rugby jerseys not included)

VIII.“Slide sandals” should be left to our dads and their golf buddies.

IX.No matter what anyone says, sans deo-dorant is not natural. In fact, it’s selfish and rude.

X.Last but not least, leggings are NOT pants.

opinion

Photographer: Liam Bryne

Illegally Bond

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ALEX MyEr’S Top FivE TipSTo SuccEEd AT THiS yEAr’S BriAN orr MooTiNG coMpETiTioN

Some members of the vis East Team- AJ o’Brodovich, Nigel Thomas and Ben Ettinger hopefuls for the 2012 Moot competition in Hong Kong.

“The biggest challenge of mooting is staying calm and confident when the arbitrator is grilling you. I’ve taken from this expereince that even after 5 months, there can still be no clear answer to a legal prob-lem.

Overall this has taught me skills I didn’t have before. Such as public speaking and thinking on my feet, all while remaining collected. This comes from the one on one coaching that Bond provides...I have a much greater apprecaition for litigators.”

- AJ first time mooter speaking on his experience with Bond’s Vis East team

1. Keep it simpleThere is no point trying to run a complex, highly technical argument that only you and your partner understand. You will know the case better than anyone else, including (most of the time) the judge. Expressing your argument in plain terms that are easy to follow is very, very important.

2. SignpostTelling the judge what is com-ing makes your argument easier to follow and more persuasive. Phrases like ‘I have two argu-ments, the first is X and the second is Y’, are ideal. When you finish talking about argument X say something like ‘I will now turn to address argument Y, that…’

3. Manage your timeIf you have two points to cover that are about as important as one another, you should spend roughly equal time on each one. If the judge holds you up on one point, one way out is to say ‘In the interests of time, I will pro-ceed to my second point’.

4. Observe the proper formalitiesThe judge is called always called ‘Your Honour’. You never sug-gest or believe, only submit. If you can’t answer a question you say ‘I am unable to assist the court with that matter’. Ensure

you don’t fiddle or do anything distracting when your partner or your learned friends (the other side!) are speaking. Dress appro-priately.

5. Answer the ques-tions effectivelyPause briefly after the judge finishes asking the question and before you answer. Doing so means the first thing you say is more likely to be relevant rather than a phrase to give you time to think. Don’t break eye contact with the judge during the ques-tion or fiddle with your notes.

Good luck to all Brian Orr par-ticpants!

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Bond is known, amongst other things, for its excellent global connections and opportunities.In-ternational students from every corner of the world flock to be part of the education realm that is Bond. Bond’s faculty of law in particular, attracts a substantial number of students from the Asian region: namely China, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. This melting pot of international students creates a diverse com-munity in which you can find con-trasting expressions of culture. The ALSS functions as a platform for all Asian law students or stu-dents from Non-English Speaking Backgrounds to voice their concerns and opinions. Our semesterly cul-tural events allow students from all backgrounds to mingle.Additionally, if you are interested in fostering friendships and build-

ing business connections with stu-dents from the Asian region, do get in touch with the ALSS. Remember, Bond is not just a university, it’s a global community. Just last week, the ALSS success-fully organised its annual Spring Festival, two weeks after the com-mencement of the Chinese Lunar New Year. If you happened to glance out your window, or plan a romantic lakeside stroll to witness a shower of fireworks on Friday night, you have the ALSS to thank for that 8-minute study break (or the brown-ie points you scored with your be-loved).Next semester, the ALSS is looking to bring in something bigger and better during the first few weeks of uni. Be sure to keep your eyes and ears open for our new addition to Bond’s yearly calendar!

Asian Law Students’ Association L Law sAssoications113AAA aw 113 Awards

Thanks to everyone who braved the cyclone-like weather a few weeks back and made it out to the CLSA’s Welcome Back BBQ. As Canadians, we know a thing or two about surviv-ing the elements, and it was great to see so many turn out at Don’s to enjoy a burger, meet some fellow Canucks, and watch the lake overflow.We’re also excited to once again host the St Patrick’s Day party, taking place Saturday March 17th. You can look forward to green beer, a great party, and seeing the extent of everyone’s inner Irish. Watch your email for more details on this one too.Finally, the CLSA would like to congratu-late Basil Bansal, Alex Morris and Adam O’Brodovich on being elected to represent the CLSA for 122-123 as the social, admin and publications directors. Looking forward to a great semester 121 here at Bond. To keep in touch with us, please join the CLSA group on Facebook and OrgSync.

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Q: What is your best study tip for an open book exam?

A: Treat it just like you would a closed book exam. You don't have time to rely on your materials except where eg you forget a case name or rule number.

Q: Are you a pro or against streamering?

A: I like to have students in the room with me so that we can engage in two way communication. However, I'm a realist and I know it is not possible to attend every lecture all the time.

Q:How do you unwind?

A: I love to travel. I also enjoy quiet time with my King Charles Cav Spanial 'Mr Darcy' (named for Colin Firth in Pride and Prejudice).

Q:Do you prefer teaching over practising?

A:I definitely prefer teaching. Clients are unpredictable and always leave things to the last minute. It is difficult to form a relationship with clients. On the other hand, I love students (most of the time). They keep me young and inspired.

Q:What is your favourite legal show or movie?

A:My Cousin Vinny. A colleague of mine said he laughed so much when he saw this movie that he nearly wet his pants.

Q:What is your favourite chapter from your Legal Skills text book?

A: Chapter 2, on interviewing. First impressions make a difference for you and for your client.

Q: Do semesters fly by for teachers as fast as they do for students?

A: I suspect that they fly past even more quickly for teachers than for students and believe it or not, we both suffer from overload at about weeks 8-9. We have more in common than you might think. It is always good to remember that teach-ers were students once. (Ideally, we are students until the day we die).

60 Seconds With Bobette Wolski

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Application tips from Corrs Chambers Westgarth

WRITING YOUR RESUME

Your resume is your marketing tool. It is a summary of your personal history and qualities and should be succinct and have a positive impact on the reader.

What should you include?

PERSONAL DETAILSName, address, phone numbers, email address. It’s not necessary to include details relating to your age, national-ity, race, religion, or marital status.

EDUCATIONFor each course of study, indicate the date, institution, and name of course. Include details of secondary and tertiary studies, listing the most recent first. Attach a copy of your academic transcript to your application, rather than listing the results in your resume.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIESInclude a brief outline of your involvement in extra-curricu-lar activities at school, university, and in the broader com-munity. Highlight the use of certain skills such as leader-ship, presentation, co-ordination and working as part of a team.

EMPLOYMENT/WORK EXPERIENCEFor each role, indicate date, organisation and the role you fulfilled, be sure to include any voluntary positions, and start with the most recent first. Outline the responsibilities held and any significant achievements

PERSONAL SKILLSThis section is to articulate any skills which you have not already highlighted. Write a short list of 6-8 points about your strongest personal skills. These could include skills you have acquired naturally or skills you have developed through training.

INTERESTSIt is important to include 4-6 points on your interests out-side work and study.

REFEREESInclude 2-3 people who can be contacted for a profes-sional or character reference. List each person's name, position, organisation, business address, phone number and email. Always confirm with your referee that they are happy to act as a referee before including their details.

WRITING YOUR COVERING LETTER

Your covering letter is your chance to demonstrate your written communication skills and introduce yourself. The covering letter should clearly state what you have to offer the organisation. Planning what you are going to write is essential to writing an effective covering letter.

Below are some key points:

•Highlight KEY MESSAGES you would like to convey in the letter, like personal qualities, skills, experience, aca-demic achievements and your work/life experience

•TAILOR YOUR LETTER to each organisation. Research the organisation and the qualities they look for in employ-ees, and make reference to aspects which are interesting to you, e.g. areas of practice which appeal to you, values and culture of the organisation.

•Ensure that you set the letter out in BUSINESS CORRE-SPONDENCE style. Make sure you know who to address the letter to, including their name, position and address of the organisation.

•Include YOUR DETAILS even if you have these details in your Resume.

•Include a heading which states the PURPOSE OF THE LETTER. This should appear in bold upper case as the first line of your letter.

•AVOID RESTATING INFORMATION that appears in your resume in the covering letter. Instead, include highlights from your resume, illustrating how this information is rel-evant to the role you are applying for.

•BE ORIGINAL with your letter in terms of content and style.

•Write in a style which is CLEAR AND SIMPLE – if you use too many colourful adjectives and phrases, it can detract from conveying a strong message.

•Keep your letter to ONE PAGE. Remember it should highlight key messages.

•Once you have drafted your letter, CHECK your spelling, grammar and punctuation.

•Ask at least two OTHER PEOPLE TO READ your draft letter and make suggestions for improvement.

Download your copy at: http://bondlsa.com/publi-cations/careers-guide.

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FIRM BRIEFINGS

Generally, if you are offered an interview with a firm for a seasonal clerkship they will hold an information session, or briefing, for candidates.

Things to remember:

•Arrive on time: If you know that you are going to be late be-cause of another commitment let the organisers know.•Send your apologies if you are unable to make the briefing.•Know your interviewers before the briefing and introduce yourself.•Speak with as many firm representatives as possible.•Thank the organisers prior to leaving the event.•Leave promptly at the specified concluding time.

THE INTERVIEW

Before the interview:

•Know who your interviewers will be.•Know where you are going, and who you need to ask for at reception.•Have a copy of your resume and original academic transcript with you.•Read the information that the firm has given you.

During the interview:

•Be prepared with examples from work or university so you can answer questions.•If you are unsure about a question, ask.•Think of some questions relevant to the discussion•Most importantly, stay relaxed and be yourself!

After the interview:

•Thank your interviewers.•Ask if there is any additional information that they require from you (further academic or work history or referee contact details).

If you have any questions regarding the seasonal clerk and graduate programs please contact:

Tania ConnorsHuman Resources Adviser07 3228 [email protected]

Launch Graduate Development Program

Corrs has a new Graduate Development Program called Launch. It has been specifically designed to enhance the early career path of our lawyers and it kicks off with our 2012 gradu-ates.

We understand that graduates are an important source of future legal talent and we have created a new program that provides the best possible start for your career.

While the success of our past graduates is testament to the quality of our previous graduate program, at Corrs we are constantly evaluating what we’re doing and looking at ways we can improve.

Launch is the result of more than 16 months of research, analysis and design. We took into account world leading prac-tices and put ourselves in the shoes of graduates, placing them, and theirprofessional needs, at the centre of our thinking.

Rich on-the-job training, mentoring, learning from practical experiences, coaching and ongoing feedback are the corner-stones of Launch.

The program has been lengthened from 13 to 18 months to provide you with increased opportunities to really get involved in matters and to work with a greater number of partners and senior lawyers.

During the program you will rotate through three divisions, which will give you the opportunity to work with a greater num-ber of practice areas, helping you to work out what type of law interests you the most.

A stand out feature of the new program is the introduction of a Graduate Development Manager. This is a new role solely dedicated to supporting you in your learning, mentoring and work experiences.

For this important role we appointed Mark Cessario who, as a Corrs Senior Associate, brings unique insight and understand-ing to this role.

Mark has been at Corrs as a lawyer for over nine years. His passion for people development has meant he has been di-rectly involved in graduate learning both as a graduate mentor and facilitator of graduate training.

Another key feature is the appointment of senior lawyers to act as Graduate Mentors. These lawyers offer you one-on-one support and guidance, helping you gain the skills and experi-ence to succeed throughout your career.

We are very excited about the new program. It’s development-rich experiences will help build the foundations for you to become an outstanding lawyer.For more information about Corrs and the Launch program please visit: www.corrs.com.au/graduates

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GRUDGE WEEK

TUESDAY GRUDGE FEAST 11AM WHERE? Outside the Business FacultyWHAT? Free brunch

PRIZES!Prizes will be awarded for best dressed & team spirit!!

WEDNESDAY PEP RALLY 12PM WHERE? Ornamental LawnsWHAT? Free carnival attractions & BBQ

THURSDAY GRUDGE MATCH 6PM Free buses from Don’s at 6pmGirls touch Rugby Grudge MatchCheerleaders at half time!

AFTER PARTY 9PMDon’s at 9pm – be there!

RULES:Law: Law & Health/Med Students. Business: Business & Humanities Students.

Week 9 - Sem 121

2012