In Conversation with Aditi Singh from Shyambazar Law College on her Journey through Law School

I’m Aditi Singh, breaking new ground as a first-generation lawyer in my family. Despite my initial background in science, I chose to pursue law, encouraged by my father. The journey has been both challenging and rewarding, as I navigate the intricacies of the legal field.

Beyond the courtroom, I find joy in the digital realm as a passionate gamer. What started as a hobby has evolved into a competitive pursuit, and I actively engage as an esports player. The strategic thinking and quick decision-making required in both law and gaming complement each other, providing a unique balance in my life.

It’s fascinating to bridge my analytical mindset from my science background with the strategic challenges presented by both the legal system and the competitive gaming world. This dynamic combination adds richness and diversity to my experiences, shaping my identity as I navigate the complexities of the legal field and conquer virtual realms in the gaming world.

My journey into law began with a moment of confusion after my higher secondary education. Coming from a science background, I was uncertain about pursuing engineering, and the pandemic added another layer of complexity to the decision-making process. It was during this time that my father suggested exploring law as a potential path.

Intrigued by the idea, I delved into researching the field, its scope, and the opportunities it presented. The more I learned, the more my interest in law grew. Motivated by this newfound curiosity, I took a significant step by filling out the entrance exam form for Calcutta Law colleges. This marked the beginning of my formal journey into the legal world.

Navigating through the challenges of adapting from a science background to the legal realm during a pandemic has been both daunting and enlightening. However, the decision to explore law has proven to be a pivotal and rewarding choice, shaping my professional path and broadening my horizons in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

My initial years in law school were marked by a mix of challenges and discoveries. Unfortunately, like many others, my first two semesters were conducted online due to the prevailing circumstances. While the subjects and books were intriguing, the online format presented its own set of hurdles, making it difficult to fully engage in the learning process.

Despite the challenges, I took the initiative to study on my own, delving into the rich content of the law subjects. This self-driven approach not only helped me navigate the constraints of online classes but also deepened my interest in the field. The independent study allowed me to explore facets of the law that I might not have encountered in a traditional classroom setting.

In a way, the initial struggle with online learning turned out to be a silver lining. It pushed me to develop self-discipline and a proactive attitude toward my education. The process of studying independently opened up new perspectives and enlightened me about aspects of the law that I hadn’t previously known, ultimately contributing to a more profound appreciation for the subject matter. As the challenges of online classes persisted, I found resilience and a growing passion for law that continues to shape my academic journey.

The primary motivation behind my decision to pursue law as a career was my father’s influence and encouragement. He shared insightful and interesting aspects about the legal profession, sparking my curiosity. As I delved deeper into the field through research, I discovered the vast scope and numerous benefits that a career in law could offer.

Learning about the potential for personal and professional growth, the ability to contribute to justice, and the diverse range of specializations within the legal domain further solidified my interest. The prospect of making a positive impact on society, coupled with the intellectual challenges inherent in the legal field, appealed to me.

Ultimately, the combination of my father’s guidance, the intriguing nature of the legal profession, and the perceived opportunities for meaningful work and personal development motivated me to pursue law as a career. This decision has since shaped my academic and professional journey, providing a foundation for continuous learning and growth in the legal realm.

Navigating the entrance test for admission into LLB courses, specifically the law entrance exam for Calcutta, was a notable experience for me. As a fourth-year BA LLB student, I approached the exam with a well-prepared mindset. The unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic afforded me ample time to dedicate to my studies, allowing me to thoroughly prepare for the test.

The exam itself presented a balanced challenge—not excessively difficult, yet not overly easy. This balance was in line with my expectations, and I found myself well-equipped to tackle the questions. The meticulous preparation during the pandemic, coupled with a solid foundation from my ongoing studies, contributed to a positive and rewarding experience during the entrance test.

Overall, the journey through the entrance exam was a testament to the dedication and resilience fostered during the challenging times of the pandemic. It was a moment of affirmation, signaling that the time and effort invested in preparation had paid off, paving the way for continued success in my pursuit of a law degree.

While preparing for the law entrance exam, I relied on a combination of resources to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the material. My top three sources of information were:

1. Online Platforms and Google: The internet, particularly Google, played a crucial role in my preparation. I used online platforms, legal forums, and educational websites to access a wide range of study materials, past exam papers, and legal resources. Google searches helped me clarify doubts and delve deeper into specific topics.

2. Official Exam Material: I made sure to thoroughly review any official study material provided by the examination authority. This included syllabi, sample papers, and any recommended readings. Understanding the structure and format of the exam from official sources was essential for effective preparation.

3. Reference Books and Legal Literature: I supplemented my online research with relevant reference books and legal literature. These materials provided in-depth insights into key legal concepts, case studies, and important precedents. Utilizing a combination of online and offline resources helped me build a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.

Yes, I predominantly prepared for the exam independently. The flexibility and accessibility of online resources, coupled with the abundance of information available through platforms like Google, allowed me to structure my study plan according to my pace and preferences. While self-preparation requires discipline, it also provided me with the autonomy to tailor my study approach to my learning style and schedule.

What sets my story apart is the unique convergence of factors that influenced my journey into law. Coming from a science background, the decision to pursue law wasn’t an obvious or conventional choice for me. It was the encouragement and vision of my father that opened my eyes to the possibilities within the legal field.

The timing of my decision, during the pandemic, added an extra layer of complexity. Navigating the challenges of adapting to online learning and self-study during those times required resilience and self-discipline. Despite the difficulties, this period of uncertainty served as a catalyst, propelling me into a deeper exploration of the legal profession.

Moreover, my dual identity as a competitive esports player adds a distinctive dimension to my story. Balancing the rigor of legal studies with the strategic and competitive world of esports reflects the diverse interests and skills that shape my identity.

In essence, it’s the amalgamation of unconventional choices, the influence of family, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the unique blend of legal studies with a passion for esports that sets my story apart from others in the legal realm.