Law school isn’t just about casebooks and lectures—just ask NUS Scholar Chua Guang Rong. From rubbing shoulders with top lawyers to representing NUS in international moot (mock court trials), contract drafting, and negotiation competitions, and even exploring fast-track master’s opportunities abroad, Guang Rong’s journey is a testament to how studying at NUS Law offers a real-world learning adventure beyond the classroom.
Why NUS Law? The People, the Prestige, and the Possibilities
When it came to choosing a law school, NUS Law stood out for its people and its reach. The faculty has a strong alumni network, with senior lawyers frequently returning to mentor students. I’ve personally had the privilege of engaging with many of them, benefitting from their generous insights and experiences. On campus, Singapore’s top law firms regularly hold talks and networking sessions, giving students first-hand access to industry leaders.
But what ultimately sealed the deal for me was NUS’s global outlook. From diverse overseas exchange opportunities to the Exchange-Plus pathway that allows students to complete a fast-track master’s degree abroad in Year 4, the options for growth are abundant. Combined with a vibrant campus life, the choice was clear.
NUS Global Merit Scholarship: More Than Financial Freedom
I accepted the NUS Global Merit Scholarship as a way to independently finance my university education and ease the burden on my parents. Beyond covering tuition, housing, and living expenses, it provides priority access to hostel accommodations. There’s also the prestige of being associated with an award that carries NUS’ global reputation.
But above all, the scholarship’s greatest gift is that it is bond-free, giving me the freedom to pursue the legal practice area I’m most passionate about after I graduate.
Scholarship Interviews: Think Conversation, Not Interrogation
I thoroughly enjoyed my scholarship interview, led by Professor Tan Cheng Han, Senior Counsel. Instead of feeling intimidated, I found myself engaged in a lively discussion on recent tech law developments and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on the legal profession—topics that truly fascinated me.
If I could give one tip to future applicants, it would be to approach the interview as a conversation, tap into your genuine curiosity to connect with the interviewer authentically, and use it as an opportunity to get to know the faculty better.
So, Do You Have What It Takes?
In my view, these are the three qualities that matter most: 1) Diligence: the discipline to put in consistent effort to excel. 2) Connection: the willingness to engage meaningfully with others. 3) Authenticity: having the courage to be yourself, boldly and unapologetically.
Being a scholar is not about perfection. For me, it’s about showing up as a role model, an ambassador, and above all, someone genuine.
The Real and Rewarding Side of Law School
NUS has given me far more than case briefs and textbooks. Staying in Pioneer House during my first year was particularly memorable; I met incredible people from diverse backgrounds and faculties. I also had the chance to immerse myself in geopolitics seminars at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP), including its flagship Festival of Ideas 2024, where thought leaders, policymakers, academics, and students come together to debate issues shaping the world.
I spent my first-year summer break at two international law firms—Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow and Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, interacting with lawyers from across the globe. I also represented NUS in local and international mooting, contract drafting, and negotiation competitions, most recently returning from an international negotiation competition in Sri Lanka, where our team won the Distinction Award for Mediation Advocacy. As a double-degree student in Business and Law, I joined the Copenhagen Business School (CBS) Case Competition, advancing to the global semifinals with my NUS Business School teammates.
If there’s one thing NUS Law guarantees, it’s that your learning extends far beyond the classroom!
CHUA GUANG RONG
NUS Global Merit Scholarship
Bachelor of Business Administration & Law, National University of Singapore, Year 2
From: Hwa Chong Institution