Throughout my personal life and academic career, I have always enjoyed maths and sciences but also the arts and languages. Therefore, choosing what I wanted to study at university was no easy feat. My first encounter with the thought of studying law arose from a book my homeroom teacher recommended to me because he was aware I enjoyed anything with an element of problem-solving. “What About Law?” by Catherine Barnard offered a very engaging insight into all the mandatory topics you take in a law degree, each illustrated with case law and the principles and implications arising from the case. Importantly, what I learned from reading the book was, that although cliched, law is truly all around us. Even the front cover of the book alone had several legal issues arising out of it. From this, I developed the notion that law would be combining something from every subject, and studying it would be very fulfilling. With the benefit of hindsight, I now know that I was right. I understood from the start that law school was going to be a great challenge, motivating me to leave my comfort zone. Yet, I realized how stimulating it was to leave my comfort zone when I piloted a Piper Arrow. Being terrified of flying in a cramped metal cage, and having no control over the situation perpetuated this fear. However, having a chance to man the aircraft and perform maneuvers under supervision allowed me to safely leave my comfort zone, and experience something I would have never dared to try before. Piloting this aircraft changed my perception of the world both literally and figuratively. What I felt was not fear, but excitement. This opportunity allowed me to live through (and survive) an exhilarating experience that I will not forget anytime soon. The exhilaration of piloting an aircraft is replicated day after day during my time in law school. My understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of law was further enhanced when I shadowed a barrister. The case I encountered concerned a piece of jewelry a corporation commissioned from a goldsmith. When the final product did not contain the agreed-upon percentage of gold, the corporation sued the goldsmith for theft of the missing gold. However, it was the need for impurities to maintain the structural stability of the product that ultimately contributed to the lower percentage. With the goldsmith prevailing against the corporation who arguably had greater access to resources and legal representation, this experience revealed the justice brought about by the legal system. More importantly, it taught me that the legal field not only requires knowledge of the legal system, but also knowledge of the world, and in this case, a knowledge of fundamental chemistry. To me, law is not an isolated discipline. Rather, it requires a thorough understanding and intertwining of several disciplines to regulate our ever-changing, complex societies. As I have pursued most of my academic career in Hong Kong, beginning with the International Baccalaureate program during high school to the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree at the University of Hong Kong, I decided to apply to study abroad in my final year at the University of Southern California’s Gould School of Law. I am so grateful for the opportunity given to me by the exchange program that allowed me to study in USC Gould’s LLM program for one academic year. Here, I learned to get out of my comfort zone consistently in learning new laws. From participating in simulated mediations to listening to real-life applications of procedures we learned in counterterrorism class, I was captivated by the depth of law we could study and how that knowledge translates into practice. I want to study the Master of Laws (LLM) program at USC Gould because of its commitment to academic excellence I personally experienced. The small class sizes and low professor-to-student ratio allowed for active participation and engagement with the material. I had a stimulating learning experience brought about by the environment that encouraged me to think critically. Importantly, I believe that my education here was enhanced by USC’s diverse student body. In my classes, we had students from all corners of the globe. The opportunity to hear their unique and insightful perspectives on common topics was an unparalleled experience. With the rapid globalization of our society, international-mindedness is imperative for any future lawyer to succeed. The diversity I have been exposed to from attending USC LLM classes has given me a platform to form close bonds with fellow students I would never have had the opportunity to engage with otherwise. I feel that my one year of exchange studies at USC Gould has given me an invaluable global professional (Trojan) network, and I would relish the opportunity to expand it even further. I also respect USC Gould for its commitment to professional development. By offering classes introducing the basics of the U.S. Legal System, students with foreign legal degrees like me would be able to grasp fundamental concepts in understanding a new legal system. Coming from a common law background, I have been able to notice similarities and differences between Hong Kong’s legal system and the U.S.’s legal system. As I was sitting in “Topics in American Law” reviewing criminal law, I was reminded of the several common law defenses available to the commission of a crime that I studied in my second year of law school. However, I was also able to notice that there are fundamental differences in the division of power such as the fact that power is shared between the state and federal systems which do not apply to Hong Kong. Understanding and comparing these hybridized legal systems will allow me to fully appreciate the spirit of the common law, and further, enhance my understanding of the law in general. I am excited by the opportunity to learn more about this legal system which would be pivotal to my success in gaining an internationalized perspective for my studies and future career.

My Barbie Dream House will be located in the mountainous regions of the Swiss Alps. The mountain will only be accessible by gondola on this secluded mountain top, and the gondola will be decorated in all things Barbie pink. The dream house will be a three-story mansion with a garden, greenhouse, and infinity pool. The entrance will be a pink glittery archway with facial recognition and the potential of making your avatar Barbie-fied. Walking through the archway, on the left you will a small sitting area with a fountain and various species of natural pink flowers surrounding the area. On the right, various Barbie pink bicycles, scooters, and rollerblades will be available to help travel around the gardens in the back. The gardens outside will include a flowery walkway for those to enjoy the fresh scent of flowers, as well as a pink garden maze for younger children to run around and play in. A short walk from the gardens you will arrive at the infinity pool overlooking more of the Swiss Alps and the small village town down below. There will also be a heart-shaped jacuzzi with pink lights to stay warm during the winter season. Inside, my Barbie Dream House will have everything you want in the house. The welcome area will have pink couches with a pink chandelier hanging above. Everyone will be welcomed inside with Barbie slippers for comfort walking around the house. In the living room, you will see a flat-screen TV and various pink and white seating areas. There will be a fireplace burning a pink fire and a floor-length mirror helping reflect the natural sunlight into the room. The bedrooms will be located upstairs accessible by both stairs and elevator. These bedrooms will be a pink paradise. With an assortment of pink canopy king-sized beds and fluffy pink cushions, one is sure to have a restful and good night's sleep in the Barbie-themed bedrooms. The bedroom will have a walk-in closet filled with all kinds of clothes that suit your style. These outfits will be automatically chosen for you through a panel in the walk-in closet where you can input what kinds of styles and clothes you want in your closet. The bathroom will feel like walking into a spa retreat. Complete with a jacuzzi, sand room, and dry and wet saunas. There will be a walk-in shower as well as a bathtub situated in the middle, making you feel like the Barbie you are. There will also be pink-scented candles and rose petals lined on the floor. The kitchen is any aspiring chef's dream, complete with the most up-to-date kitchen appliances. It will be an open plan featuring an island in the middle with bar stools as well as a large dining table with many comfortable cushioned seats available. There is also an entertainment room that transforms into any room you want it to be with a voice command or the click of a button. This room could be filled with board games, a cinema room, an indoor pool, or a gymnasium. This Barbie dream house will be symbolic of all things Barbie. From Barbie's extravagant lifestyle to all the adventures she has experienced, one is sure to have the best time at the Barbie Dream House.

Tenacity, to me, is a word defining determination to achieve one's goal. It is a vital quality any individual must equip themselves with to achieve everything they want in life. I have experienced the feeling of tenacity when learning to snowboard for the first time at an older age, teaching me important lessons to persevere and never give up. My moment of tenacity arose when I was learning to snowboard at a local mountain. I was a teenager at the time and not at my best physical fitness levels due to the pressure of academics and life in general. I have always wanted to learn a snow sport and I have always perceived snowboarding to be one of the most intensive yet exciting snow sports offered. As I took my first snowboarding lesson, I could barely stand up and balance on the snowboard let alone going down the slope and making turns. I had fallen multiple times bruising parts of my lower back, and tiring out all parts of my body. Despite all the discomfort and injuries, I was determined to learn this sport. The methods I used to persevere included seeking help from experienced snowboarding coaches, practicing, and maintaining a positive mindset. My coach knew I was having a rough time getting the hang of balancing on my board and taking the leap of faith which was turning on the board and included having my back facing the downward slope. It is important to know that when making the turns, it is not a skill that someone can hold your hand step-by-step. Once you are on your own, you have to become the bravest version of yourself and just go for it. I practiced many times within 3 hour period and fell even more times, making me feel like I could never be able to do it. It was not until near the end of the snow day that I was able to make my first successful turn, and I have never been more proud of myself. After that achievement, I would go on the mountains as much as I could to practice perfecting the turns, even making sharper and more effective turns given that some mountains have narrower paths than others. I am certain that it was my tenacity that allowed me to overcome the fear of having my back turned towards the slope and master the skill of snowboarding today. The lesson I have learned from this experience has translated into many things I have achieved today. One of my most significant achievements was studying for and getting into law school. Persevering with tenacity in my academics has allowed me to achieve the grades required to get into law school. Seeking help from professionals such as reaching out to practicing attorneys and volunteering at legal aid offices has allowed me to gain exposure in this field and taught me a lot of skills and qualities to equip myself as a law student and an aspiring attorney. I also learned that when the times and circumstances I face become increasingly challenging maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on my goals has helped me overcome even the hardest of challenges. Ultimately, it was my demonstration of tenacity in learning the skill of snowboarding that has transformed the projection of my life. It helped solidify in my mind the idea that firm determination, perseverance, and a positive mindset can help me overcome even the highest of hurdles. This experience has not only developed one of my all-time favorite hobbies but also how I tackle challenges in every aspect of life.

The dream version of my future self has seen and learned a lot from the vast experiences and cultures the world has to offer and is a compassionate individual who has made a positive impact on the world for future generations.

As the autumn breeze sets in, the leaves turn yellow, and the cackle of firewood can be heard, one of the things I look forward most to is the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte. Fall is a time for all things new, especially for people starting a new academic year. Fall provides a new start to everything you do in life from getting ahead in your studies to meeting new people and making new memories. To me, the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is symbolic of this change. As I take my first sip of the pumpkin cream, the flavors all feel exciting and new. That is how I perceive setting foot on campus, with new experiences to be had. One of the most exciting fall experiences I have had are welcome events from my university. Every week there will be something going on for the entire academic class to meet up and make new friends. I have met some people at these events whom I can call my forever friends. Fall is also a time of bonfires and cozy sweaters. With the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte, making its way back into our daily routines, I can trust the drink to have my back and come back, just like the new friendships I have formed. The chai tea flavor contrasted with the pumpkin cream provides a multisensory experience. By overwhelming you with taste, this drink makes fall feel like a time of excitement and anticipation for new things. Personally, the pumpkin spice latte also connects me with my friends. Especially with the buy one get one deal every Thursday this September. It has created a tradition for me to meet up with my friends between classes to get various assortment of fall drinks together. These short coffee sessions are one of the moments I look forward to the most when heading onto campus to start my day and one where some of the most meaningful conversations take place. To me, the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is not just a drink. It is a significant aspect of my fall narrative, influencing the people I meet and the memories I will cherish forever. When it makes its return each fall, I know that I can count on it no matter where I am in the world, what stage of life I have reached, and who I am currently spending the fall time with.

(1) “Legality is not a guide for morality”. The truth behind this phrase is something I discovered throughout my academic studies. What shocks me is that morally wrong events in history such as the Holocaust, slavery, and segregation were all legal. However, I believe that laws should reflect the continual changes in our world. I wish to pursue a degree in law because it would allow me to pursue my ambition of ensuring justice is brought to the most deserving, and I wish to do this by representing underrepresented communities. Fighting the injustices that underrepresented people face is a battle I plan to win. Through voluntary work, I began small by serving my community. At school, I was a part of the community service committee and human rights charity committee. These committees both hosted annual events to benefit refugees living in our immediate community but are heavily neglected and overlooked. I have also been part of the Girl Guides Association as a Brownie and a Guide. Being a brownie and guide has given me many opportunities to serve my community through activities such as tree planting, elderly home visits, and walking stray dogs. However, I have noticed that many more communities are severely underrepresented. Therefore, I also volunteered at a legal clinic helping clients research and advise on several issues including transfer of property, testamentary capacity in drafting a will, nuisance, application for permanent residency, and discrimination. My desire to help underrepresented people was influenced by a case I learned about during my work experience with an attorney. This case regarded a piece of jewelry a large company commissioned from a goldsmith. This company sued the goldsmith for a missing percentage of gold, but it was the need for impurities that contributed to the lower percentage. This particular case has shown me that the legal system truly allows for justice in our society, as the independent goldsmith was able to prevail against the large jewelry company that had immediate access to lawyers and resources. More importantly, this experience has taught me that the work of a barrister not only involves knowledge of the legal system, but also a general understanding of the world, and in this case, a knowledge of basic chemistry. This barrister demonstrated that the study and practice of law is not an isolated discipline, but rather requires a thorough understanding and intertwining of several disciplines to regulate our complex societies. The study of law paves the way for me to achieve my goal of bringing justice to underrepresented communities. I plan on serving the community with a law degree by volunteering at legal clinics and non-governmental organizations. (2) One of the most valuable insights I have learned is that perseverance and dedication are essential. From the moment I began to think about law school, I had to be certain that this is the path I wanted to pursue. This is because I had to start preparing as soon as possible. From gathering the necessary documents and maintaining a strong academic record to crafting a strong profile, law school is no easy feat. Apart from showing the law school admissions committee that I am academically capable, I wanted to show my genuine interest in the subject as well as the goals I wanted to pursue. Early on, I engaged in volunteer opportunities and extracurricular activities that aligned with my goals and interests, demonstrating my commitment to law school and my dream of helping underrepresented communities. By doing this, I have also learned that I could prove to law school admissions officers that I will be able to manage the heavy workload and high-intensity assignments given in law school, as well as pursue different opportunities and experiences that the law school may offer. Researching law schools was also highly important in the process. In order to achieve my goals, I had to find out whether that specific institution offers the courses I wanted to study and provided the experiences and platforms for me to achieve those goals. I also sought guidance through contact with current law students and lawyers who have been through the process and succeeded in making certain that I would make the most of my time in law school. Specifically, I was taught that factors including the location of the law school and alumni network were highly important features that I had to consider in my law school application. Especially in terms of the opportunities I could be a part of and the professionals in their respective fields, I could reach out to for advice and guidance. Similar to the application process, law school itself is time-consuming and carries a high cost. Being committed to a certain goal throughout this period has helped me maintain the motivation to pursue this dream no matter the cost. With a strong academic profile, I believe I have built a strong foundation for the transition to law school in terms of workload and exams. Furthermore, with a clear goal in mind, I will be able to take advantage of the various opportunities law school will provide to me from pursuing internships or externships to extracurricular activities that align with my goals and interests.