Meet Zuber Malek, 2L and learn more about his story at South Texas Law in this Student Spotlight by the Career Resource Center.
Why did you choose to attend South Texas College of Law Houston?
I chose STCL Houston because it is renowned for producing exceptional trial attorneys, which aligns with my primary goal of pursuing a legal career.
Where are you working this summer?
I currently hold a mentorship/law clerk position with Armen Merjanian Criminal Defense, and I plan to continue in this role until my graduation next spring.
How did you secure those opportunities?
I applied through the Fall 2024 On Campus Interview session, as it was the only criminal defense employer participating at the time. I had a great interview with Armen and Brianne, his former law clerk who now owns her own firm. After a second interview, I was offered the position.
How did the Career Resource Center (CRC) help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?
Whenever I had questions about the process or needed assistance with On-Campus Interviews (OCI), the CRC was there to support me. Although I already had a resume that I felt confident in, I quickly realized the requirements needed for a legal resume are very different. Marie helped me revise my resume and develop a strategy for approaching potential employers.
What are your career goals for the future?
Since starting law school, I knew I needed more than a traditional internship. I sought an experienced defense attorney to mentor me—someone who could teach me the ins-and-outs of running a firm, as well as trial techniques and defense strategies. My plan is to open my own firm as soon as I pass the bar. Ultimately, I aim to become a prominent trial attorney representing clients accused of high-level federal crimes, while also dedicating time to pro bono work for low-income individuals.
What piece of advice would you share with future students going through recruitment?
Hustle. Nothing will be handed to you—you have to be proactive. Create a plan with the CRC, then go out and execute it. In addition to participating in OCI, send your resume and cover letter to as many firms as possible. Make your cover letters personalized and professional—avoid generic content, because you need to stand out from thousands of other candidates.
Networking is also crucial. You never know who you’ll meet or what opportunities might arise. For example, I went to one event where a judge gave me their personal number and a personal injury attorney offered me a potential job opportunity.
Which professors have influenced you and/or your career path the most?
I have relationships with several professors, but none have significantly influenced my career path. That said, Professor Moore and Professor Ortiz are great!
What student organizations have you been involved with?
I’ve been involved with the Muslim Law Society.
How has the South Texas Law community supported your growth?
I’ve built relationships with fellow students across all class levels, from new 1Ls to 3Ls preparing for the bar. Connecting with others on a human level is important—everyone has a unique perspective and life story. While some of our struggles as law students are similar, others are different. I also enjoy chatting with the support staff and administration; sometimes I stop by random offices just to talk about food, travel, or life.
What is something interesting about you we can’t learn from your resume?
I have two teenage sons and was featured on the KPRC2 news for my entrepreneurial efforts when I opened up a restaurant.
