On November 7, the College of Law held its tenth Overseas Study Series Lecture, titled "U.S. Intellectual Property Law Seminar – Studying and Career Planning in the United States," at the Fazhibin Lecture Hall. The college invited Attorney Chang Hsuan-Ye to share his experiences studying and working in the U.S. with faculty and students. The event also welcomed Attorney Wei Ting, an alumnus of NCCU's College of Law, as a discussant. Faculty in attendance included Associate Dean Professor Chu Te-Fang, as well as Professor Shen Chung-Lun and Associate Professor Chen Lung-Sheng, both experts in patent law and trademark law relevant to the lecture's focus.
Associate Dean Chu Te-Fang opened the event, remarking that the two guest speakers possess outstanding legal expertise and rich academic and professional experience, promising to provide students with invaluable knowledge and personal insights. Professors Shen and Chen, both with study and work experience in the United States, were expected to add further depth to the discussion, benefiting students greatly.
Attorney Chang Hsuan-Ye summarized his journey with a single phrase: "Becoming a lawyer without feeling prepared." Born in Taipei and raised in Kaohsiung, Attorney Chang graduated from Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages with a major in English and a minor in German. He later earned a bachelor's and master’s degree in physics from Chung Yuan Christian University and then pursued a Ph.D. in physics in the U.S. During this time, he faced various challenges, traveling between Taiwan and the U.S. and eventually enrolling in law school due to work requirements. After graduation, he joined a mid-sized law firm and later started his own practice specializing in patent-related matters.
When asked if one must save enough money before studying in the U.S., Attorney Chang, who arrived with only $3,000 and a single suitcase, responded that he was able to complete his studies with the help of scholarships and wages. He also worked with a Taiwanese law firm, translating documents into English to earn income. On career planning, Chang emphasized that there is no mainstream or non-mainstream path; developing one’s abilities is a personal asset that no one can take away, and hard work will be recognized.
Attorney Wei Ting, an NCCU alumnus, gained practical experience interning at Lee and Li Attorneys-at-Law, working as a researcher at National Taiwan University, and handling accounting, contract review, and bank auditing at Deloitte. Wei later pursued further studies at the University of Chicago, and after obtaining her degree, joined Attorney Chang's team. Wei also shared her experience of cultural shock in the U.S.; despite thoroughly studying cases, she sometimes struggled with professors’ unexpected questions, while classmates, even if unprepared, spoke eloquently and adapted based on the professors' reactions. This taught Wei the importance of learning how to "Think like a lawyer," beyond just acquiring legal knowledge.
Associate Professor Chen Lung-Sheng remarked that many students feel uncertain about their present and future. However, Chang’s journey shows that one is never fully prepared and will face continuous challenges. While others may perceive Chang’s career as smooth and glamorous, the obstacles he overcame offer valuable lessons. Despite setbacks, Chang persevered and gained strength from each difficulty, encouraging students to draw inspiration from his story.
Professor Shen Tsung-Lun encouraged students to take every opportunity to experience different cultures. For him, being able to showcase his expertise and arguments in a U.S. courtroom was a dream come true. Shen emphasized that one should continue moving forward, as challenges and changes often bring personal growth and motivation, even if they involve sacrifices.
The College of Law will continue hosting the International Exchange Series Lectures and encourages students to stay informed and sign up actively!
