1355. Double degree in law and top scores

April 9, 2013

I was glad for the father whose daughter got a position in an international law firm, Clifford Chance. "Do you know about Clifford Chance? She was interviewed for over 60 minutes although 30 minutes was scheduled," he told me. "She was lucky."  

"Yes, I know about Clifford Chance," I said. "It is one of those top international law firms. I had read about it in the newspapers." In addition, I had rented an apartment for one of its lawyers some years ago when I was an active realtor.

"There is no such thing as being lucky to get a position in Clifford Chance," I said. "She worked hard. Double degrees and top grades. Big firms employ the best and they pay most for top academic performers." I was glad for him as I knew he had been struggling over the years to send her to an overseas education in law.

Nowadays the Singapore Government no longer publicises the top scholars in "A" and "O" levels so as not to put "pressure" on the other students and concerns of the parents. Still top grades get the graduate choice employers and that is a fact of life.

As for graduates with average grades and in an area with excess graduates, the bigger veterinary practices in Singapore now prefers vets with 1-2 years of experience. In later years, they will take only those with more years of experience. But vets who are top in their cohort should have no problem getting employment and being choosy. Life is going to be much more competitive for vet graduates as there are more than 50 practices opened now. Good for the pet owners.