Law Student’s Unforgettable Journey in Global Discovery Program
Monash Law Students Kiera Kay and Ronald Liu have just returned from an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. Chosen from over 280 Monash University students, they joined an exclusive group of 10 students for Monash University's award winning Global Discovery Program and spent two weeks in New York as the guests of our alumni.
Apply now for Global Discovery Program 2025
Kiera’s and Ronald’s experiences, filled with personal growth and professional development, have left a lasting impact on their lives.
“None of us were prepared for how intensive this program was going to be!” revealed Kiera.
The Global Discovery Program is an award winning study tour to New York City, and this marks its 10th year. This intensive program promises to broaden your mind as you learn from influential New York City-based Monash University alumni. It’s a unique opportunity to meet key corporate decision makers and leaders in one of the world’s most exciting cities..
Kiera is a second year student studying a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Arts. She’s an enthusiast of proverbs and the Global Discovery Program called to mind a Slavic proverb which translates to: live for a century, learn for a century. With this spirit she leapt at the opportunity to meet successful global alumni who started in the same spot that she’s in right now.
Ronald is a second year student studying a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Commerce. He’s always had a keen interest for geopolitics and commerce and especially the intersection between the two and saw the Global Discovery Program as the perfect opportunity to combine his passions.
“I was fortunate enough to land an internship in the U.S. China Business Council in my first year and that was super cool. That was my first taste of the working world and showed me the inner workings of the world’s two biggest superpowers and I think that came through in my application for the Global Discovery Program,” explained Ronald.
Both Kiera and Ronald agreed that the Global Discovery Program was more than just a tour. It was a journey of self-discovery, a chance to meet like-minded individuals, and an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.
Their experiences, though different, were equally enriching, highlighting the diverse opportunities the program offers.
Kiera’s experience on the Global Discovery Program
Kiera was a spirited participant and approached the program with wide-eyed curiosity. Armed with her trusty camera, she vowed to capture every moment, from the mundane to the extraordinary.
Her enthusiasm was contagious, and fellow participants were drawn to her infectious energy. Kiera’s goal was clear: to learn, connect, and create memories that would last a lifetime.
“My most favourite alumna and the one that I probably talked to the most so far via LinkedIn is Traci Alford, Global CEO at Effie Worldwide. Her office is based at the World Trade Center, so we got to see the absolutely amazing view and she gave us honest insights into how she works,” enthused Kiera.
Effie stands for marketing effectiveness, spotlighting ideas that work and serving as the forum for the global marketing industry. Traci Alford graduated from Monash Law in the early 1990s with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Business (Marketing).
“She was probably the best balance of realistic, honest advice, that was also heartfelt.”
Networking in New York with (left to right) Cameron Mills, Patrick Loftus-Hills, Grace’s boyfriend, Kiera Kay, Grace Lowden.
Anne Valentine Andrews, Global Head of Private Markets at Manulife Investment Management, hosted the Global Discovery Program in her penthouse on the first night of the tour.
“Anne Valentine Andrews was the first taste I had of the brutally honest New York delivery that these alumni have. I really appreciated her honesty and I'm going to be thinking about that penthouse mansion for a long, long time,” said Kiera.
“This trip really changed my perspective of how these corporate companies work because there is quite literally a place for everyone and a job for everyone from all different backgrounds.”
Apply now for Global Discovery Program 2025
Ronald’s reflections on the Global Discovery Program
Ronald is more introspective by nature and found beauty in the program’s subtleties.
“I see these alumni as a guide and a beacon in terms of what I should aspire to. Having them share stories and funny experiences from their past - I think that’s more important than the networking,” reflected Ronald.
One of Ronald’s favourite and first encounters on the Global Discovery Program highlighted the power of storytelling.
Michelle Landy is Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel of Persuit, an outside counsel management platform that enables organisations to scope and receive proposals from their law firms of choice
During a fireside chat, Ronald listened intently as this seasoned storyteller shared tales of resilience, failure, and triumph.
“It was candid. It was a really cosy environment in her office. She gave a lot of insights on how our law careers can work in the US. It was very pertinent advice that I really took to heart,” shared Ronald.
The Global Discovery Program team prepare for networking at Bluestone Cafe (left to right) Seung Chan Hong, Tia-Louise Rigney, Ronald Liu, Rachel Masquiren, Angus Farquhar, Kiera Kay, Pooja Chandra, Jessica Yu, Talia Prime, Brigitta Maria Andrea Gunawan.
Ronald’s favourite part of the program was the Thursday evening reception. Dressed in his best suit, he mingled with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and fellow participants. The conversations flowed freely, and Ronald soaked up wisdom like a sponge.
“That was pretty incredible to see and it was very overwhelming at first, I have to say. Just the sheer amount of super- experienced professionals in the room and you're like this 19 year old guy with two years of law school experience, right?” implored Ronald.
“It was definitely super satisfying to be able to chat to so many people.”
Apply now for Global Discovery Program 2025
The lasting impact of the Global Discovery Program
Kiera and Ronald returned home with more than souvenirs—they carried a renewed sense of purpose, a global perspective, and lifelong friendships. The Global Discovery Program has transformed them, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and their career goals.
“It was pretty comforting to hear that you could have a law degree, but then end up becoming a global CEO of a finance company.It comforts me in knowing that I don't have to take this clear cut path and I can end up living in New York city,” said Kiera.
“It narrowed my focus in a good way.I can see a much more tangible, feasible way of pursuing my passion. And that is, sorry to Melbourne, but I think I’m definitely planning on moving to the US now,” revealed Kiera.
For Ronald it was less about the destination and more about the journey.
“I guess New York has definitely clarified that you can’t anticipate where you're going to land up and you should always make the most out of every opportunity,” confirmed Ronald.
“If I'm ever in New York again, I can always reach out and say hey, can we catch up over a coffee?”
On the NYC subway for the first time (left to right) Ronald Liu, Talia Prime, Kiera Kay, Angus Farquhar.
While free time was very sparse, Kiera and Ronald made the absolute most of the minutes that they had complete control over.
“I'm a musical theatre fiend, so I saved up specifically to watch as many Broadway shows as I possibly could. I ended up watching The Lion King, Aladdin, Hamilton, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and the new one, The Great Gatsby.”
Ronald’s more introspective approach to the program also impacted the few moments of free time that he had to himself. He was surprised to find solace in the retreat-like natural atmosphere of Brooklyn Bridge Park, a sanctuary amidst New York’s hustle and bustle.
“The suburb of Dumbo in Brooklyn stood out for me because it was one of the only very green spaces in New York. It's known for its artistic, hippie vibe and I found it to be a super nice retreat. That was pretty incredible,” said Ronald.
The Global Discovery Program is clearly a life-changing experience for the participants, but the overall lesson that we can all learn from is to make the most of every opportunity. A lesson that Kiera absolutely took to heart.
“I don't regret a thing. My bank account is in tears, but I don't regret a single thing. I'd absolutely do it again.”
Upcoming Monash Abroad info sessions (from Aug 2024)