UiTM Student Johan Radzi on Studying Law

We know studying Law takes a lot time and effort, but how gruelling can it get?

We ask Johan Radzi of UiTM, Shah Alam. This 23-year-old, soon-to-be Barrister shares with us what inspired him to pursue this programme, the must-haves for students taking up the same course, and what lies ahead for him.

How did you decide on what course to study after your high school?

It was always my dream to study law. I have been following Prof Syed Saleem Faruqi's column in The Star since I was studying in Royal Military College.

Though I barely understood all its complex jargons and mechanisms, I was deeply fascinated by the idea of how high virtues such as fairness and justice can be worked out through the workings of the law. This can be seen in the Fundamental Liberties chapter in our very own Federal Constitution.

Perhaps this sounds idealistic, but I am a romantic believer of an ideal society. An evil and oppression in this world can be fought if we adhere to these two principles.

What made you decide to go to UiTM?

This may sound funny, but I was aiming to get a spot at IIUM when I first registered. I was aiming to master both Islamic Law and English Common Law if I get enrolled there.

I got UiTM instead - being the second choice of my application. A friend of mine told me that his sister was a graduate of UiTM's Law School: he claimed that the school has a reputation for being one of Malaysian's finest in producing prominent lawyers in that field. So I thought to myself: why not? Maybe I can broaden up my experience from there.

Share with us any memorable experience in your campus's life. What makes it unforgettable?

For getting an A for my Land Law 1 paper.

You see, that was my first time obtaining an A. Not only that, I got that from a subject on which I despised the most in my course. Land Law 1 is full of procedures and statutes, it makes a dry subject. There are no rooms for discussions; unlike Criminal Law or Tort Law where you can argue over the loopholes.

Land Law doesn't have that. It's very straight forward. You have to memorise all of these steps by steps procedures in order fully answer the exam's question. But I managed that and Alhamdulillah.

What are the top five items you cannot live without during college?

Legal statutes
Literature novels
Music player
My watch
My favorite sweater

What are the top 3 tips you will give to students who would like to study law?

Always keep an open mind. Law is a very broad subject. You can argue on almost everything - if not legally, then substantially.
Keep updated with latest issues. Politics, economics, even sociology might be handy in understanding Law. Read up our scholars views and opinions. You can always quote them.
Bear in mind that law is no easy subject. Well, everyone can say that their course is the hardest, but I can assure you this: law is hard and tough and very time consuming and if legal profession is not your aim, then just don''t apply here. If your heart doesn't burn passionately for legal related careers, then don't do it. I have a senior who dropped out in his third year, saying that this is not his thing. "I dont have a knack on law," I remembered him saying. "I just cant."

Bear in mind that law is no easy subject. Well, everyone can say that their course is the hardest, but I can assure you this: law is hard and tough and very time consuming and if legal profession is not your aim, then just don''t apply here.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

I plan to get myself a place in the military service after my graduation in UiTM. Military lawyer, perhaps? I've been missing my regimental lifestyle I was having back then in high school. If not, then being a human rights advocate and criminal litigator will do.

Studying Law is not an easy feat, but with the right tools and attitude, you are sure to survive the gruelling years ahead of you.

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UiTM Student Johan Radzi on Studying Law

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