Belonging in law school and the legal profession: Muslim law students’ experiences

Despite the increasing diversity of student cohorts in Australian law schools, there is very little research on the experiences of law students from diverse backgrounds, and none that specifically focuses on Muslim law students. This article discusses the findings of a study conducted at Western Sydney University on the experiences of Muslim law students. Using a focus group methodology, it provides insight into students’ perspectives on representation and belonging in law school and the legal profession. Students’ sense of belonging and identity at law school may be confined to their experience of ‘safe spaces’, with that sense of belonging often diminishing as they transition into the legal profession. Greater consideration is needed in relation to how Islam is discussed in the Australian law curriculum, along with the need to address the intersectional challenges faced by female students who identify as Muslim.