Law student Rose Mackie’s marks best in 125 years at UTAS

For the first time in 125 years, a University of Tasmania graduate has maintained perfect scores across a gruelling law and economics degree. Here is the secret to Rose Mackie’s success.

Rose Mackie, 23, UTAS graduate with a Bachelor of Economics and Law with honours in Law. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

FOR Rose Mackie, stellar academic achievement isn’t the result of a narrow focus on studies.

The 23-year-old was awarded a prestigious university medal at her graduation last week after achieving perfect scores in her law and economics degree.

The triumph – a first in 125 years at the University of Tasmania – is testament to her commitment to not only study, but life in general.

Ms Mackie said she managed the feat by staying well rounded, and maintaining her friendships.

SEE THE FULL LIST OF THIS YEAR’S UTAS GRADUATES

SEE OUR UTAS GRADUATES AND SUPPORTERS GALLERY

“It’s important to get involved with extra-curricular activities and do other things so you’re not just studying. It feeds back into your studies and allows you to have a more fulfilling and well-rounded education,” she said.

“And ultimately that helps with your marks.”

Ms Mackie said the support of people around her had also been pivotal, most notably her mum Sara, who has parented alone.

“Mum has looked after me every step of the way,” Ms Mackie said.

Ms Mackie said her friends and university mentors were also behind her success.

“It’s really important to value and nurture the relationships you have with university staff, peers, family and friends.

“Whatever you want to achieve, you can’t achieve it alone.

“Having support and people around you who care is really, really important.”

Ms Mackie also achieved a perfect Tasmanian Certificate of Education score when she finished school at Hobart College in 2013.

MORE NEWS:

MAKING WAVES IN AND OUT OF THE POOL

LAST-MINUTE CHRISTMAS BARGAINS SORTED

UTAS BUYS PROPERTY TO EASE HOUSING CRISIS

Although her perfect score of 99.95 allowed her to study anywhere, she said she was grateful she chose to stay in Tasmania.

“I’m very glad that I chose to study at UTAS because it’s small, has a fantastic culture and is really supportive,” she said.

As well as gaining High Distinctions in every subject throughout her five years at uni, Ms Mackie also spread herself across extra-curricular activities.

She was co-editor of the University of Tasmania Law Review, worked part time, worked as a research assistant and tutor in the law school and competed and coached in competitive mooting.

“I also did some internships at the Coroner’s Court and the Environmental Defenders Office.”

After a well-earned summer break, Ms Mackie will complete her graduate diploma of legal practice next year and then take up a position as associate to Federal Court Judge Duncan Kerr.