By Michael Veith

When it comes to the rigours of law school, the verdict is clear. Shirin Leung (Class of 2010), who is finishing her fourth and final year of studying law at City University in Hong Kong, can attest to this fact. “It’s so hard. It is still interesting (the material in class), but the readings are really heavy. I would cut comers by not reading every article our professors assigned us but I was wrong. Everything could be tested on so I had to read everything. I’m up till at least 12-1am every night reading.”

During her first year, Shirin did really well and she described her experience as “exciting”, however her second and third years were very hard.  “I felt like I got thrown into the deep end. I bit off more than I could chew taking five core courses in one semester,” she said, adding, “Not only that but the subjects got progressively harder and more complicated concepts were introduced. However, I believe the complexities of studying law have made me a more logical thinker and a more diligent student.”

Along with the torrent of reading and studying, she has made many friends and memories during her time in Law School. “There is an extensive exchange program at City U and I have become friends with people from France, UK, Norway, Russia, Finland and Germany, not only Hong Kong and China. I’d say the highlight of my university experience has been becoming friends with students from all over the world.”

After graduating law school this spring, Shirin hopes to get an additional degree in either graphic or jewelry design. These past months, she has set up a small home business, “Accessories by Shirin”, whose Facebook page you can find here. Her handcrafted jewelry has been sold to countless people from all over the world. “It really is the best feeling when you can profit from your hobby.”