Press Release: Mentoring makes the difference for scholarship winner

Access to mentoring is a key component to career success, according to both a law student scholarship winner and the CEO of the firm that awarded it.

Western Sydney University law student Allyssa Khoupongsy, who was awarded the 2018 Bartier Perry scholarship, said mentoring opportunities were one of the key reasons she applied.

“The financial assistance is really important,” said Allyssa, “but for me there is also huge value in the mentorship it provides from lawyers across the firm.”

Allyssa, who also has senior mentors at News Limited through the Go West Mentorship program, said part of mentoring was about giving people who didn’t always have the connections and established networks, an equal opportunity.

“It is really hard coming out of a university with a degree and not having a foot in the door in terms of work opportunities”, said Allyssa. “Having mentors to turn to for advice also makes you feel optimistic and that you are on the right path.”

Bartier Perry CEO Riana Steyn said mentoring remained important throughout your career.

“Allyssa is an incredibly committed and talented individual and the firm is proud to help open doors and opportunities for her. The value and importance of mentorship though remains throughout your career. Mentors have and continue to make a big difference in my career and that’s a similar experience for many people here at Bartier Perry,” said Ms Steyn.

“It’s important then that as a firm we provide both financial support and mentorship to talented young women who might otherwise miss out.”

Ms Steyn said Western Sydney University should also be applauded for the programmes it had built to provide students opportunities outside of the lecture theatre.

“We’re delighted to be partnering with them on this scholarship, which is just one of a number of innovative career pathways the University is providing their students.”

Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University, Professor Barney Glover, thanked Bartier Perry for their contribution to developing women in law.

“Bartier Perry’s commitment to the University through a $150,000 pledge has created many valued opportunities,” said Professor Glover.

“We congratulate Allyssa, who is the fourth exemplary student to benefit from mentorship and financial assistance provided by the scholarship. We look forward to continuing to work with Bartier Perry as they take a leading role in developing the next generation of lawyers.”