6,059km: From a High School Dream to Law Students’ Society President
6,059km is the distance between Singapore and Melbourne. Sarah Tok's journey from high school in Singapore to Monash University in Australia exemplifies the transformative power of education and the enriching experiences that come with studying abroad. As an international student in the Law Faculty at Monash University, Sarah's story is one of growth, resilience, and leadership.
Sarah’s involvement with the Monash Law Students' Society (‘LSS’) has not only shaped her academic and professional trajectory but also provided her with a platform to make a significant and positive impression on her peers.
Early Aspirations and Arrival at Monash Law
Growing up, Sarah had always been curious by nature and that led her to analyse strategies in computer games and devise alternative methods to solve mathematical problems. She always knew she found joy and fulfilment in understanding how systems work and being able to explain that concisely.
“I’ve always enjoyed understanding the ‘why’ behind things - literature taught me to uncover hidden meanings, while economics showed me the interconnectedness of the world on a macro scale. In high school, you get a taste of many subjects, but university allows you to focus deeply on what truly interests you. For me, that was law," Sarah shared.
The transition from high school to university also represented a significant step towards adulthood, independence, as well as specialisation. When she decided to pursue her Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Commerce at Monash University, she was both excited and nervous about the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
Upon arriving in Australia, Sarah faced the typical challenges of an international student: setting up a new life, managing day-to-day tasks independently, and adjusting to a new cultural environment. However, these challenges also helped her grow and gain confidence.
"In that discomfort of growing, you also find confidence in yourself when you show up for yourself”, said Sarah.
L-R: Collette Goh (LSS Secretary), Sarah Tok (LSS President) at the Monash Law Ball 2024.
Discovering the Monash Law Students' Society
“The first friend I ever met in law school was Collette (LSS Secretary 2025). We met before Orientation and we attended campus-wide events together. Since then, we have been working closely together in the LSS and I am incredibly grateful for our friendship, one that supports and strengthens each other,” said Sarah.
Sarah first learned about the LSS during her Law Faculty Orientation at Monash University.
"During the very first day of orientation, where all of us were in the auditorium, we heard from a few speakers. I remember on stage were LSS representatives. After the session, we all gathered in our groups with our Peer Mentors. I think that was the very first time I knew about LSS," recalled Sarah.
The Monash LSS is the largest law students’ society in Australia, and one of the largest voluntary student organisations in the country. In 2025, there are almost 4,000 members who have access to a variety of services, information and events throughout their Law degrees.
The LSS offers activities and initiatives in five portfolios focused on the student experience: Activities, Careers, Competitions, Education and Social Justice and Equity. The primary goal of the LSS is to create an environment that fosters learning, not just in the classroom, but also through personal growth and development.
“ For the last three years, I've really enjoyed my time creating new memories with my friends. Outside of law school and the LSS, I have played a few tournaments with Monash Ultimate Frisbee. For anyone who is a new student, I would encourage you to join different clubs and societies and build a community,” recommended Sarah.
Sarah Tok’s highlight as International Student Officer in 2023 was organising and coordinating a road trip to Phillip Island for 70 international students.
Journey Through the LSS
Sarah's journey as an officer with the LSS began at the end of her first year when she joined as an International Student Officer. In this role, she aimed to create a supportive community for international students, helping them feel less lonely and more integrated into university life.
"As an international student myself, I wanted to create a community where people could attend events together and make friends. I wanted them to know that they’d have someone to talk to if they felt lonely," explained Sarah.
One of the highlights of her tenure was organising a road trip to Phillip Island, which saw participation from around 70 international students.
"It was the first ever road trip and a big event after the lockdown years, so a lot of students were looking forward to it."
When asked about the highlight of her term in 2023, Sarah confirmed, “the opportunity for students from all backgrounds and years to gather together, and just look at cute penguins was simply unforgettable."
L-R: 2024 LSS Careers Directors Ramya Saravanan and Sarah Tok at the Professional Mentoring Program in 2024.
Clerkship Guide Launch Night 2024.
After a successful year as International Student Officer, Sarah transitioned to the role of Careers Director. This position involved working closely with law firms and organising events to help students prepare for their careers.
One of Sarah’s notable achievements as Careers Director was the Clerkship Guide Launch Night at the Crown Promenade, which brought together over 325 students and legal professionals. Additionally, she initiated a LinkedIn Headshots Event, providing students with professional photos for their profiles and applications.
"We collaborated with a student photographer and got free LinkedIn headshots for students who signed up. Within a week, everyone's LinkedIn profiles were updated," said Sarah.
“ Some peers have also reached out to let us know that they used the exact same photograph for their clerkship applications as well. The process of preparing for clerkships is not an easy feat and I am grateful for the opportunity to work closely with firms and students. That was definitely the highlight of my year as Careers Director”.
Sarah's dedication and passion for the LSS led her to consider running for President. After much contemplation, she decided to take on the challenge.
"I thought a lot about running for presidency. My last two years in LSS made me realise that you truly need to have a passion for the club and your peers. I didn't want to go into a role if I wasn't fully committed to it," explained Sarah.
Sarah’s successful campaign focused on fostering a sense of community and friendship within the law school. She emphasised the importance of creating resources and events that catered to students from all backgrounds, ensuring that everyone felt included and supported.
In addition to her success in the Monash LSS, Sarah Tok also won Student Volunteer of the year in the Law Faculty in 2023.
Leadership as LSS President
As the current President of the LSS, Sarah's role involves overseeing various portfolios and working closely with her team and the Faculty to plan and execute events. Her leadership style is characterised by a focus on mentorship and support, ensuring that her team members feel valued and empowered.
"I am thankful for the opportunity to work closely with them, support them along the way and see their ideas come to life,” said Sarah.
Sarah’s first priority was to introduce new initiatives, such as a subcommittee for sports and welfare, aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being among students.
Her presidency is marked by a commitment to inclusivity and community building. Sarah has worked hard to ensure that the LSS remains a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their background.
“I want to provide a comfortable presence that you can reach out to, send an email to, message to if you're struggling with your personal life or need help with planning," explained Sarah.
Already, Sarah’s efforts have not only strengthened the LSS but also enriched the overall student experience at Monash Law.
Continuing in Monash Law’s Supportive Community
Sarah Tok's journey from Singapore to Monash University is a powerful example of how international students can thrive in the Monash Law environment. Her involvement with the Monash Law Students' Society has provided her with invaluable experiences and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Sarah's story demonstrates the benefits of the supportive and dynamic community at Monash Law that make it the perfect choice for future law students planning to travel to Australia for their studies. Her leadership and dedication continue to inspire her peers and pave the way for future generations of students from all backgrounds.