Growing up, we all have dreams and goals to achieve. But sometimes, these dreams need to change for the better. Former local lawyer Lee Jia Ying would know!
Lee Jia Ying has always wanted to be a lawyer. While she did manage to achieve her dream, she soon realised it wasn’t sustainable. As such, she ended up quitting her career here in Malaysia and went to New Zealand to be a nursery worker instead!
The 28-year-old had dreams of being a lawyer and upholding justice for vulnerable groups since she was young. After graduating in 2018 and obtaining her license the following year, she had hoped to find work in Kuala Lumpur. However, she realised living in Melaka with her parents would save more as a lawyer’s salary wasn’t much.
Although Jia Ying was called to the bar in 2021, she ran into another issue. There were no vacancies for litigation lawyers. As such, she switched to being a conveyancing lawyer. She stayed in the legal field for two years before realising it wasn’t for her. So, when she got the opportunity to apply for New Zealand’s Working Holiday Visa application, she took it.
Jia Ying’s family and friends had mixed reactions to her decision. Most were understandably concerned about her giving up her career. But, others were supportive of her choice. Jia Ying herself had no regrets about going to New Zealand to be a nursery worker. According to her, she’s earning a decent wage while still being able to travel. The 28-year-old is also using the time to recharge and reflect on her career.
It’s certainly surprising to know that Lee Jia Ying gave up her law career. But, Jia Ying added that there was another reason why she’s decided to let it go. “Lawyers are often underpaid and undervalued, and many young lawyers struggle to make a living,” she said. Additionally, the high levels of stress only added to the legal industry’s “toxic” culture.
Lee Jia Ying has since gained plenty of experiences while in New Zealand, and she believes every instance was worth it. She also encouraged others to step off the traditional career path if need be, as she feels personal growth is more important.
Well, we certainly have to applaud Jia Ying for knowing what she wants out of life, and how to get it! Who knows, perhaps this will encourage others to start examining their own careers. After all, dreams are of our own making, so who’s to say we can’t change them?
Sources: Weird Kaya, China Press
