As we celebrate our 20th anniversary at the College of Law NZ, we’re excited to tell the stories of our inspiring alumni.

Today, we sit down with Eliza Egan, whose career spans from Melbourne, Australia, to all corners of the globe.

Her journey has led her to teach in classrooms in China, explore international law courts – and eventually settle in New Zealand.

Now a senior solicitor with Meredith Connell in Auckland, Eliza reflects on how the College of Law prepared her for the legal profession.

Q: Eliza, how did you get started in law?

My fascination with law began in high school. Initially, I dreamt of becoming a diplomat or working in the children’s court. I was especially excited by the idea of an international career. And I saw a law degree as the pathway to those dreams.

In 2014, I completed a Bachelor of Laws at Monash University in Melbourne. Then, I moved to Perth where I completed my Profs at the College of Law.

Those early decisions steered me toward a legal career overseas.

Q: Where has your career taken you?

As the first lawyer in my family, I initially had no idea what to expect! But I’ve learned careers can be wildly non-linear.

My first job was at a law firm in Perth. It was fantastic. And I’m grateful for that opportunity and the skills, experience and confidence it gave me. After that, I moved to New Zealand, where I was admitted as a lawyer. And since 2017, I’ve been working as a solicitor with Meredith Connell.

This year, I took a secondment role with the College of Law. I’ve been creating online lectures, podcasts and micro-courses for the College’s CPD offerings. It is unique and it’s been a lot of fun. It’s also a wonderful example of where your degree can take you.

I’m thankful I never set fixed goals for myself. It’s enabled me to move with the tide.

Q: What challenges have you encountered along the way?

Something I found challenging was the process of being admitted as a lawyer in New Zealand.

The laws are different from Australia’s. And being admitted in New Zealand can be complicated. There’s a lot to stay across. Navigating that was daunting yet rewarding. It required a deep dive into unfamiliar territory, but I embraced the opportunity to broaden my experience.

If I could go back, I’d ask for help – rather than trying to figure it all out myself.

Q: Your career has taken you across the world. What experiences stand out?

The most inspiring moments for me have involved following my passions overseas. 
I deferred my university studies to live and work in China for a year. There, I taught English at a school in Chengdu. It was a rewarding opportunity that broadened my mind.
Another experience that stands out is the internship I took up in Malaysia. There, I was able to sit in on Sharia Court hearings. It was eye-opening and made me appreciate cultural and religious differences. And it was fascinating to learn about foreign legal systems.
Unsurprisingly, I would encourage all students to travel or intern overseas if they get the chance.

Q: What was your experience with the College of Law’s Profs course?

At the College, you get out what you put in. And I had a wonderful time.

There’s a strong community vibe, and I was part of a fantastic cohort. We built deep connections, and then we all got admitted together. It was special.

On a practical level, Profs gave me core skills essential for any law career. Starting out in a law firm, I felt confident tackling challenges that might otherwise have seemed daunting.

Q: What advice would you give to law students about to graduate?

Play to your strengths and recognise that your pathway may not look like anyone else’s.

It can be overwhelming to be in the thick of your studies while simultaneously trying to get internships and graduate roles.

If you work hard and remain true to yourself, your determination can lead you further than you thought possible.

Q: Where’s next for you?

I’m enjoying what I’m doing now, working for Meredith Connell and contributing to the College.

It’s exciting to think where that could potentially take me – and I’m curious and open to seeing what happens next.

Interested in learning more about Profs? Download the handbook here