From backpacker to law degree: Adele's story

When Adele Peluso left her home in Italy to travel around Australia for six months, she had no idea that the opportunities on offer would see her still here six years later about to graduate with a law degree from CDU.  

After starting university studies in political science in Italy, Adele Peluso decided to take a gap year to improve her English.  

"I arrived in Darwin as a backpacker from Queensland, where I was picking capsicums. I was supposed to stay only for a few days," she says.

But just like thousands before her, those few days turned into months, and now six years later, Adele is at home in Darwin.  

"I have been captured by the weather, which is always sunny, the beauty of the ocean, and the warm community spirit that make Darwin unique."

From childhood, Adele had an interest in law and justice, so when the opportunity to stay in Australia and study law at CDU arose, she didn't hesitate.  

I believe Darwin is a perfect place to study and work; it's not too big and not too small, it's easy to get anywhere with a scooter or a bike or a public bus, and it's a place full of opportunities. If you work hard, you will be seen and appreciated.  

A new home with new career opportunities  

While Adele found so much to love about Darwin, it was her experiences at CDU that had a significant impact on her. Adele was exposed to dozens of development opportunities to see how her education could turn into a fulfilling career. 

Thanks to the Law school we had the chance in the past to participate in professional development days attended by lawyers, judges, and legal officers which gave us a clear idea of how the law works in practice. 

"Thanks to my law degree and my active participation in different programs, I have gained a job at the Department of Trade, Business and Innovation. The new position is greatly broadening my skills. It is an awesome opportunity," she says. 

As well as studying and developing her professional skills, Adele is a CDU Ambassador, was the Treasurer of the Law Student’s Society, represented international students at the Council of International Students Australia (CISA) Conference in Perth last year, was awarded the CDU International Students Advisor Scholarship and was a finalist for the International Student of the Year Award.  

Kindness in the student community  

Adele has grasped all the great opportunities available at CDU and thanks to her fellow students for giving her the confidence to make the most of them. 

CDU feels like a family; I always felt welcome and supported. It’s a triumph of cooperation, connection, diversity and respect for other cultures. 

"I have to say that the support of my classmates has been heart-warming. They showed me how they truly believe in my abilities and always valued my different way to express myself helping to address issues and mistakes. My classmates are the rock of my career."

Explore Law and Legal Studies at CDU or find out more about studying in Darwin.