Law Graduates: From Canada to Melbourne
When former OzTREKK student Amogh Kadhe left Canada to study law in Australia, he wasn’t just chasing a degree—he was chasing a dream.
Now a commercial and corporate lawyer, podcaster, and passionate community volunteer, Amogh credits the Monash Juris Doctor (JD) program with helping him build the skills, networks, and confidence to launch a successful legal career in Australia.
“I’m a lawyer, a podcaster, and someone who just loves giving back to the community,” said Amogh. “Monash gave me the platform to do all of that.”
Why Study Law at Monash University?
Amogh always knew he wanted to study law but wasn’t sure where.
“Studying abroad was something at the back of my mind throughout my undergraduate degree,” he said.
After exploring options in the US, UK, and Australia, he chose Monash Law for its global reputation and the support he received during the application process.
“I got into Monash Law, which I felt was a really good achievement for myself,” he said. “They also offered me a scholarship for my first year, which covered a portion of my tuition fees. That really helped.”
Amogh also praised the support from OzTREKK, a Canadian organization that assists students applying to Australian universities.
“All of the administrative side of things were actually managed by them. I sent all my documents to them, and they took care of the rest—it was really helpful.”
Settling into Melbourne as an International Student
Moving from a smaller Canadian city to Melbourne was a big shift—but one Amogh embraced.
“When I first came here, it was a bit of a surprise in terms of just seeing everything that Melbourne had to offer. But I personally loved it,” he said. “My mum came with me to help me settle in, and she was incredibly impressed. She said, ‘This is a really good city.’”
He quickly fell in love with Melbourne’s lifestyle.
“The weather is pretty good most of the time. The tram system is great. And the coffee—well, I’m a coffee connoisseur, and Melbourne definitely delivered.”
Life as an International Student in the JD
Amogh described the Monash Law JD as, “a challenging degree, but incredibly rewarding.” He appreciated the structure of the program and the exposure to a wide range of legal subjects.
“The JD gives you a general sense of all different areas of law. You do the Priestley 11 units, so you get a taste of everything—constitutional law, criminal law, contract law.”
But it was the teaching style that really stood out.
“What sets Monash apart is the experiential learning. You’re taught by professionals: barristers, solicitors, and experts in the field. That gives you a real sense of what practicing in a particular area looks like.”
Getting Involved in Monash Law
Amogh made the most of his time at Monash and grabbed opportunities with both hands. He joined the Monash Law Students’ Society (LSS) as a careers officer and following that launched his own podcast, ChatterMatters.
“When I came to Monash, I had a list of things I wanted to do. Getting involved with the LSS was one of them,” he said. “It was a bit of a challenge to balance my LSS commitments with study, but definitely manageable.”
He encourages other international students to get involved throughout their studies, with the LSS for example.
“Absolutely do it—but don’t do it just because everyone else is. Do it because you’re passionate about the role.
“You don’t have to get involved in your first year. I waited until my second year, after I’d figured out what the LSS was all about and what I wanted to do within the LSS.”
Launching a Podcast
Amogh’s podcast began as a student project but quickly grew into something more.
“I realized I really enjoyed speaking to people and hearing their stories,” he said.
“Lawyers often talk about their roles, but not about their journeys. I wanted to create a space where people could share the challenges, the wins, and the lessons they’ve learned.”
Now in its fourth season, the ChatterMatters podcast is a solo project that captures the passion of its founder.
“It’s all me—from organizing guests to editing the episodes to marketing and social media. It’s a full-on commitment, but I love it.”
On the ChatterMatters podcast Amogh recently shared a conversation with the Hon. Michael Kirby AC CMG, former Justice of the High Court of Australia.
Real-World Experience
Amogh also completed a placement with Monash Law Clinics in the Afghanistan Support Clinic.
“It was one of those experiences where you really see how your work can make a difference,” he said.
Since its establishment, over 30 students have participated in the Afghanistan Support Clinic. These students have engaged with stakeholders around the world including experts from Afghanistan and diaspora communities.
“It gave me a deeper understanding of international law and the real-world impact of legal support.”
In 2024 a collaboration between the Afghanistan Support Clinic and PhD students produced the Handbook on Universal Jurisdiction: Holding the Taliban Accountable for International Crimes.
From Student to Lawyer
When it comes to the end of a degree course for international students, some big questions need to be asked. Initially, Amogh planned to return to Canada after completing his degree.
“But I quickly learned that I was building some really good connections in Australia,” he said. “It didn’t make sense to abandon all that and move back.”
He now works at Law Squared, where he completed his graduate program.
“I didn’t get any clerkships (i.e., internships for law students), which was tough. But I kept applying. You’ve got to hustle, you’ve got to believe in yourself and put yourself out there.”
His advice to international students?
“Don’t let the fact that you’re an international student hold you back. Reach out to firms, be honest about your visa situation, and apply, apply, apply.”
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the value of the Monash JD, Amogh smiles as he praises the university course that continues to help him realize his career goals.
“It’s a qualifying law degree that gives you all the fundamental skills and knowledge to practice law in Australia. But it also teaches you how to think critically, analyze deeply, and communicate clearly. Those are skills that will serve you in any career.
“If you want to be a lawyer, great. If you don’t, that’s fine too. A law degree can open a lot of doors. Just make sure you’ve done your research and know what you’re signing up for before you start your law degree.”
From a Canadian student with no connections in Australia to a practicing lawyer thriving in Melbourne, Amogh Kadhe’s experience demonstrates the possibilities that can arise from a Monash Law degree. For international students considering where to study law, his message is clear…
“First do your research and ultimately select a university that will give you the type of teaching, and student experience you’re looking for. Monash Law offers a unique blend of experiential learning, world class teaching and a global reputation—qualities that were really important for me.”
Original story by James Brandis.
About the Monash Juris Doctor
Monash offers high-quality teaching by leading academics and practitioners who are experts in the teaching of law and legal practice. Additionally, the JD program offers an interactive learning environment, small class sizes and innovative teaching.
The Monash JD program is unique as it allows you to undertake up to six elective units from the extensive Monash Law master’s program once the compulsory units have been completed. This allows you to tailor your degree and choose units that complement your interests and professional aspirations while ensuring you graduate as a well-rounded professional with the core skills required to follow a wide range of legal and professional career paths.
Program: Juris Doctor (JD)
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Semester intakes: January, May, August
Duration: 3 years (accelerated option 2.5 years)
Application deadline: Applications are generally assessed on a rolling admissions basis. The sooner you apply the better.
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