Jade Daniella Siaoloa

2nd-year student, Bachelor of Laws

For Jade Daniella Siaoloa, studying law is personal and she hopes to be the kind of lawyer who listens, advocates and gives people a voice when they don’t have one.

“I’ve been interested in law since high school, but what really pushed me was seeing people I care about go through the justice system. It made me realise how complex the system is for those navigating through it and how unfair it can be, especially for Pacific, Māori and other marginalised communities. I’ve been through the family court myself for custody of my son, so I know how much difference a good lawyer can make. My son Jordan is my biggest motivation, and everything I’m doing is to give us a better life.”

Now in the second year of her Bachelor of Laws degree, she is proud of what she has already achieved.

“Law school really pushes you to your limits, and I’ve enjoyed that challenge because it’s shown me I can achieve more than I thought I could. I’ve loved gaining new insights into politics, law and criminal justice, because it’s opened up deeper conversations and new ways of thinking for me. Academically, I’ve already received a few awards, including the award for the top Part I student overall, completing my Part I courses with an 8.875 GPA, and was honoured to receive the Kate Edger Tressa Thomas Retraining Award.

“I’ve also enjoyed being part of such a diverse community where everyone brings something different, but we all support each other. It’s pushed me to socialise more, step out of my comfort zone and appreciate the different ways in which others think and study. I’ve really valued getting to know the lecturers. They’re so knowledgeable and passionate about their fields, and being able to learn directly from them is such a privilege. But the best part of student life is the friendships I’ve made. I’ve had a study group of five since starting uni, and we’ve pulled each other through every deadline, challenge and win. It’s meant I’ve never felt alone at uni, and I know these will be lifelong friends even after AUT.”

Highly recommended
Jade – who is of Samoan, Niuean, Cook Islands and Tahitian descent – says she would highly recommend AUT to others.

“The teaching staff are incredible. They’re approachable, supportive and always willing to go the extra mile if you ask for help. I’ve also really valued the hands-on learning in workshops because you don’t just learn the law, you get to apply it. The PASS workshops were also incredibly helpful, as final-year students shared their tips, advice and insights. I found it valuable to receive guidance from someone who had been in my exact situation only a few years earlier.

“AUT also has amazing support networks, especially for Māori and Pacific students. If you’re ever struggling, whether with academics or life in general, there’s always someone or somewhere to turn to, from lecturers to support centres to fellow students. The biggest challenge for me has been managing my schedule as a single mum, but AUT has been amazing in helping me balance uni with family life. Being able to schedule my classes around drop-offs and pick-ups, and having the flexibility to book my classes early each year, has made a huge difference.”

There are a few staff members whose support she has especially appreciated.

“My lecturers Suzanne McMeekin, Mike French and Professor Paul Myburgh have always answered questions, challenged me to think critically and taught us smarter ways to approach the law. They’ve offered genuine support beyond our studies and are always there for a friendly chat. I’ve also really valued the guidance from the dean of the AUT Law School, Professor Khylee Quince. She has supported me with advice on future placement opportunities and, as a Māori leader with a background in criminal law, her career and insight into the justice system have been inspiring and motivating.”

Advice for other students
Jade’s advice for other students is to be ambitious and aim high, no matter your circumstances.

“Stay curious, love to learn and enjoy the process. Studying is a privilege. Be open-minded to other people’s ways of learning, get involved with your classmates and don’t be afraid to speak up if you need help. Attend workshops and lectures and make the most of the support around you.

“Most importantly, find your ‘why’ and remember it. Uni can get tough as you’re balancing complex subjects, workloads, exams and life in general – but your why will keep you going. My ‘why’ is my 10-year-old son Jordan, my younger brother Luke and my family. Their support, along with my faith, has been instrumental in my success at AUT.”

Make time for family and friends while you’re studying, she adds.

“They’re your support system and will keep you grounded. For me, family – especially my son – is my priority, and I’ve been able to balance that with study. The proudest moment for me was at the AUT Law Awards, where I received four awards. My family didn’t know what I was going to be awarded, and they were all so proud when my name was announced. My grandfather was especially proud to see our surname shown on the screen. I’m the first in my family to pursue a law degree, and sharing that moment with my family was incredibly special, especially as a Pacific Islander in a space where we’re underrepresented.”