Lee Da Zhuan, Kwa Geok Choo Scholarship Recipient

This may sound cliché but I have always thought that we ought to pursue the things we believe in to be the best version of ourselves. Hence, I would characterise myself as an individual who would strive for his best to attain what he wants. One motivating reason for me to persevere is my family. My mother, in particular, has always been the stronghold of my life. I know that it was an incredibly difficult feat for her to raise three boys alone. Hence, it is and has always been my goal to provide for my mother when I grow up. Having that aspiration at the back of my mind has motivated me through tough times.

Studying in SMU has taught me to be independent. The university’s approach to learning through class participation and emphasis on presentations emboldened me to speak out more. As a result, I have been finding myself speaking my mind when the opportunity permits, adding value to discussions amongst my peers. I have also been participating in various activities – ranging from mooting competitions to tuition for underprivileged children. Ever since receiving the Kwa Geok Choo Scholarship, I have been focused on improving myself. Recently, I have been selected as an international editor for the Cambridge Law Review, a prestigious independent academic journal that provides a forum for the discussion of contemporary legal issues. To maximise my time during the semester, I have also participated in various case competitions where I have gained invaluable knowledge and experience outside of the legal industry.

In the coming months, I see myself participating in more mooting and case competitions. Participating in such competitions would help me accomplish my goal of becoming a litigator. I would also strive to carry out my duties under my external co-curricular activities, such as contributing actively in the Cambridge Law Review and leading meaningful activities at the SMU’s Pro Bono Centre. After graduation, I will be undertaking the Bar Examinations, and hopefully be the person that I have set out to be.

Lee Da Zhuan, LLB and BBM, Kwa Geok Choo Scholarship Recipient 2019