Meet Stephanie, currently a second-year Juris Doctor (JD) student at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, she joined KASS to deepen her understanding of intellectual property law through a truly regional lens. With prior experience in domain infringement and trademark filings, she saw KASS’s footprint across ASEAN and beyond as the perfect training ground to explore how IP adapts in diverse markets.
We asked Stephanie to share her thoughts on the experience so far, and here’s what she had to say…
Tell us about your educational background. What degree are you pursuing, and why?
I’m a second-year Juris Doctor (JD) student at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. I chose law because it’s where policy meets real-world impact—shaping society in ways both visible and profound.
Why did you choose KASS for your internship?
In today’s interconnected world, a global perspective is non-negotiable for aspiring lawyers—and KASS’s renowned IP practice, especially in trademarks, immediately caught my attention. With its footprint across common law jurisdictions like Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore, plus regional expertise in Indonesia, and Thailand, etc KASS’s the perfect place to explore how IP business adapts in different markets.
Having worked on domain infringement and trademark applications in Hong Kong, I was eager to broaden my horizons. And let’s be honest: who could say no to learning from the best?
How has your experience at KASS been? What skills do you hope to gain?
As an intern in the Trademark Department, I’ve loved tackling trademark searches and drafting legal arguments—putting myself in clients’ shoes to strategize brand protection is thrilling.
A huge shoutout to my supervisors, Jaynthi and Amir, for their patience, clear guidance, and for offering me opportunities. Thanks to them, I’ve mastered efficient trademark searches using MyIPO, IPOS, and WIPO.
Special thanks to Jaynthi for arranging my visit to the MyIPO office, where I got to witness Phylicia’s outstanding oral submission in person—an unforgettable highlight! Phylicia made my first day seamless, helping me settle in and even sharing Penang travel tips (proof that KASS blends professionalism with warmth).
Kathleen also deserves a mention—her responsiveness, from my interview until now, has been incredible. And thanks to Diana for her assistance in sharing training materials with me. KASS is a big and warm team.
Beyond my core tasks (trademark research, article writing, and case law analysis), I’m excited to:
– Shadow client meetings to see how professionals tackle real-time challenges.
– Dive into Industrial design and other copyright cases—my Hong Kong internship focused on trademarks, so this is my chance to go niche!
I’m here to soak up every practical insight and bring fresh perspectives back to my studies.
Passions/Interests?-Solo trips!
I’m a self-proclaimed ‘solivagant’ (a fancy word for ‘wandering solo traveler’!). I’ve explored 10 countries—from France to Vietnam—but Malaysia stole my heart during a 3-day trip to KL and Melaka last year. The vibrant energy convinced me to return… this time for an internship!
Hobbies?
When I’m not buried in case law, you’ll find me hiking in Hong Kong’s trails. There’s nothing like a breezy summit view to clear my mind and find inner peace—step by step!
Favorite musicians?
Adele (Water Under the Bridge), Bruno Mars (That’s What I Like), and Lana Del Rey (Radio) dominate my playlist!
Recent Netflix/Movie picks?
I’m obsessed with A24’s horror films—’Pearl’ and ‘Midsommar’ terrify me in the best way. Definitely not for the faint-hearted!