TP's 1st class legal eagle

FROM polytechnic to a first class honours in Law? TP’s Legal Studies alumnus Jonathan Pek has done just that. He recently graduated from University of Leicester, UK, with a Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours.

The tall and unassuming 27-year-old admitted that his outstanding achievements surpassed his own expectations. “I was pleasantly surprised, perhaps even shocked, as I had predicted a 2nd Upper Class Honours. I was in Prague for a holiday when I heard the news and was so stunned I kept asking my friend to confirm the results for me!”

Jonathan studied at TP from 1997 to 2000 and recalls his TP days fondly. His active school life included involvement in annual freshmen orientations, open houses, and being in sub committees of clubs. When he was at Leicester, he joined the varsity law soccer team and was also vice-president of the Singapore Society.

According to Jonathan, TP’s Legal Studies course had enhanced his interest in law. “When I went for a study trip to the UK, I visited universities and attended the lectures. Plus, my internship was in London. All these experiences inclined me towards a career in law.”

A grateful Jonathan acknowledges that his academic success would not be possible without the sacrifices of his family and friends. He also credited his inspiring lecturers who were always on hand to dish out sound career advice. “I had really good relationships with the lecturers. We bonded well and they’re more like friends.”

Jonathan is currently concentrating on his Postgraduate Diploma in Singapore Law. After that, he will have to complete his Practical Law Course and then pupilage at a law firm before he can be called to the bar in May 2008.