For Muhammed Samaria, a BCom Law and LLB graduate from the University of Pretoria, the study of law has been both a personal passion and a purposeful pursuit. Having completed five years of rigorous undergraduate study across two degrees, he reflects on his journey with a deep sense of fulfilment.

“Reflecting on my journey, I feel extremely vindicated in my choice of programme,” Samaria shared. “To know that all the hours spent studying and all the effort put into assignments have brought me to this very moment is incredibly rewarding.”

Choosing to complete two degrees over five years was no easy decision, but for Samaria, law always felt like the natural path for him to take. “I’ve always been drawn to the law. From a young age, I had a passion for reading, writing, and public speaking, and I was fascinated by the way law operates across different contexts.”

While criminal law initially piqued his interest due to a love of true crime, his legal curiosity soon broadened. “As I grew older and became more interested in markets, politics, business, and intellectual property, I was intrigued by how law functions to regulate transactions and relationships across the public and private spheres.”

According to Samaria, for an ambitious student determined to study at the best institutions, UP stands out as a top choice. “UP is ranked as the top university for law in the country and on the continent. I was especially eager to study under the guidance of some of the foremost legal minds in South Africa.”

Samaria also credits much of his success to the friendships and support networks he built during his time at university. “Some of my most memorable experiences are of studying and completing assignments with friends. We had a tradition of revising together in the parking lot before tests, asking each other questions and reinforcing core concepts. It played a huge role in helping me graduate with distinction. I truly believe that my undergrad years were the best of my life, and I have my friends to thank for that.”

As someone who has thoroughly enjoyed the academic journey, Samaria is focused on completing his LLM before entering legal practice. “I’ve always aspired to study through to master’s level. It’s not just about qualifications, it's about gaining deeper knowledge of the law and equipping myself for whatever path I choose next, whether that’s practice or academia.”

His LLM research focuses on a timely and relevant topic: contributory negligence and the protection of trademarks on third-party e-commerce platforms like Takealot and Amazon, an area he was drawn to through the challenges of protecting his own brand, Blackspider Audio. “I believe IP law is essential to the promotion of creativity, innovation and economic growth, and I hope this research makes a meaningful contribution.”

He is currently serving as an Academic Associate in the Department of Procedural Law and has smoothly transitioned from student to staff, finding purpose in supporting others. “My experiences as a student have better equipped me to take up this role. I’m receptive to the plights and challenges students face and enjoy playing a part in helping them succeed.”

Looking ahead, his goals are to complete articles at a top corporate law firm, becoming an admitted attorney, and working partnership and recognition on the Legal500. But he says academia still calls. “One day, I hope to return as a lecturer and inspire the next generation of lawyers, just as my lecturers have inspired me.”

To those still navigating their law journey, he offers wise and heartfelt advice saying, “Always ensure that you are sufficiently prepared. The effort you put in is proportional to what you’ll get out. Find a good balance between work and social life. And remember, no two journeys are the same. Choose the path best suited for you, and enjoy the ride. These truly are the best years of your life.”