Donnarieve Thomas spent years working in education before deciding to pursue her true calling: law. Now studying for her LLB Law online with us, she explores the support she’s receiving in her academic journey and offers her heartfelt advice for those with the same dream.
By April Baniqued. Published 06 October 2025.
My journey into law was born out of my years as a teacher. I had the privilege of working with incredible young people who, despite facing systemic challenges, showed so much strength and potential. Now, as a Senior Judicial Clerk, I have the opportunity to help many young people. They inspire me every day to believe that change is possible. My position also allows me to see how much work there is to do to create a fairer system. That’s why I chose to pursue law: to be an advocate, to open doors and to help ensure that their voices are heard and their futures are bright. They are my ‘why’ and they continue to inspire me to push forward.
In my teaching interview back in 2000, I was asked where I saw myself in five years. Without hesitation, I said, “a lawyer.” As a teenage mum from a third-world country, I needed that job, so I left the room beating myself up for saying it. Luckily, they hired me. Over the next decade, I continued teaching while also working hard to advance academically. After 10 years, I qualified for study leave but it came with a limitation: I could only study education, not law. I earned my degree in Exceptional Student Education in Florida and was proud to be awarded a scholarship.
Yet, deep down, I knew my heart wasn’t in teaching anymore. In 2016, I moved to Canada with one goal: law school. Balancing work and family, I searched for flexible options and that’s when I found The University of Law. It was at the top of my list for its top-notch curriculum, diversity and inclusivity. Every step of my journey has taught me resilience and I’m finally living the dream I spoke into existence all those years ago.
Before starting, I signed up for financial aid. It has been extremely helpful, relieving me of the worry about fees while studying. I see it as an investment in me.
I’m proud to be part of the Students’ Union at the University. Being the International Student Representative is a dream and working alongside the other team leads has been truly amazing. The joy of meeting others, sharing our experiences, and learning and growing together truly sparks a sense of purpose in me and confirms that I chose the right university to pursue my degree. I even received the SU Commendable Award this year. It felt great to be recognised by my peers and lecturers. It was an honour to be part of such a wonderful ceremony.
I’ve received lots of support whilst studying. For example, the Programme Support Lead Team has been my backbone. Sian and Katie are always there in a heartbeat. I am grateful for such a wonderful team and their encouragement. Also, I’ve attended some of the employability service forums and workshops, which I found helpful and have shared with other students.
Aside from academic struggles, I have also faced personal challenges like the death of my grandmother one year ago. The University supported me by rescheduling my exams and offered me help through its wellbeing support services. I also started therapy to help me process the grief of losing the only mother I’ve ever known.
I believe in the power of stories. Recently, I read The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins and it has truly inspired me. It explains how the only permission you need is your own and that you don’t need to wait for anyone or anything; all you need to do is start. That is something I’ll carry with me on my journey.
If you’re a student looking to pursue a similar career path as me, my advice is: don’t let your circumstances define your dreams and don’t be afraid to take the long road. The journey to a legal career can feel daunting, especially if you’re balancing other responsibilities like work or family, but every step forward counts. Be persistent, seek out opportunities that fit your situation and surround yourself with people who believe in you. Most importantly, believe in yourself even when the path takes longer or looks different from what you imagined. Your determination will get you there.
My main ambition is to build a legal career that uplifts and empowers Indigenous youth – and I am proud to announce that I have recently been chosen to work at a law firm that works primarily with this group. I could not be more elated.
In five years, I hope to have my own law firm, working alongside the First Nations communities.
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