Casting a wider net due to limited opportunities

PETALING JAYA: Tight competition for chambering spots among law graduates is driving many to submit mass applications.

Even then, some lamented that it takes months before they are even called up for an interview.

Chambering student Nik Nur Afiqah, 24, said she had to endure a two-month wait last December just to secure an interview.

“It was an extremely dreadful period as there were no updates despite me having applied to at least 10 firms.

“Some just kept mum while others told me they did not have slots for chambering students.

“I was, however, fortunate to get a position after completing the one and only interview I secured,” she said when contacted.

Muhammad Zaim Nur Zaini had to move north to Penang for his chambering after submitting applications to at least 15 firms in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor.

“It was challenging as some firms did not advertise which areas (of law) they needed pupils in.

“Another problem was finding a position that did not underpay chambering students, while allowing us to acquire sufficient experience,” said the 24-year-old from Kuala Lumpur.

He added that he had to constantly update his resume besides improving his legal knowledge in order to stand out during interviews.

“I had to present myself as an asset to the firm I applied to, in order to stand a chance of securing a chambering spot,” he said.

Others went to the extent of taking up other jobs to boost their professional credentials before submitting their applications.

Taaniyha Ahshok Kumar said she took up multiple jobs and started her own online business since her graduation in 2021 to gain work experience.

“Every little bit counts. I do not see the waiting period as a hassle ... instead, it is a possible stepping stone into a wider job market.

“There are many opportunities law graduates can explore while waiting to be called up,” said the 25-year-old who is currently a finance associate in a logistics company.

Taaniyha, who intends to pursue her Bar course abroad, said she also made efforts to expand her legal circles.

Third-year law student Norman Hilman Visser, 22, opted to apply to Bar school abroad to increase his chances of securing a chambering placement.

“It is getting more difficult to obtain a slot, especially now with firms seemingly more selective in hiring. I figured it would be better to prepare myself and build my credentials to stand a better chance when the time comes.

“Since I am also considering entering the legal sector in corporate entities and possibly litigation, completing my Bar exams abroad could bring multiple benefits,” he said.