Rianna Hartney-Smith
Graduate, 2011
Rianna graduated Elanora State High School in 2011. A passion for animals first led Rianna into veterinary nursing which was inspired partly by her aunt, a psychologist specialising in veterinary professionals. Rianna pursued a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing through Open Colleges, completing her studies in 2018. However, the emotional toll of compassion fatigue led her to reevaluate her path.
Although she didn’t take legal studies at school, a paralegal role early in her career sparked an interest in law. While working full-time and studying veterinary nursing, she developed a deeper appreciation for the legal field. When the time came to shift gears, she returned to law with a renewed focus.
Completing her degree at Southern Cross University earlier this year, she now embarks on her Diploma of Practical Legal Training with the College of Law. Currently working in property law, she hopes to broaden her expertise across various legal fields once admitted as a solicitor.
Theatre has been a cornerstone of her life since joining a local community theatre in Year 11 at Elanora State High School. From a small role in her first production, she began to become more involved, learning the ins and outs of theatre. At just 20 years old, she joined the theatre committee and worked her way up to President, where she has been for the past five years. As President, she oversees the theatre's operations, directs productions, and occasionally steps into the spotlight as a performer. For her, the stage is a place of joy and connection.
Balancing her passions for animals, law, and theatre, Rianna proves that diverse interests can harmoniously co-exist. She explains that entering a courtroom is a performance and you have to be able to think quickly on your feet, as you do with live theatre. Her goal in theatre is to bring light and laughter into the world, if only for an hour or 2. Her goal in law is to help as many people as she can, and speak for those who can’t speak for themselves.