Sanjivani Show on her Law School Journey and a Detailed Guide on Preparing for Law Entrance Exams
In this conversation with CLATalogue, Sanjivani Show reflects on her Law School Journey and provides a Detailed Guide on Preparing for Law Entrance Exams.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hello, I am Sanjivani Show, a second year law student at the Department of Law, University of Calcutta. While I prepared extensively for the CLAT exams, my path took a unique turn, leading me to pursue my law school journey at the Department of Law at the University of Calcutta.
This decision, rooted in both strategy and opportunity, has shaped my perspective on the vast world of law. Beyond my academic pursuits, I have a deep-seated love for language learning. The nuances of different languages and the cultures they represent have always fascinated me.
When I’m not engrossed in legal texts or language books, you can often find me lost in the world of literature, exploring different narratives and perspectives. Sleeping, a simple yet rejuvenating activity, is another hobby I cherish. It provides me with the energy and clarity to face the challenges of the legal world and life in general.
Additionally, I’m an active participant on LinkedIn, where I relish the opportunity to interact with new people, exchange ideas, and expand my professional network.
In essence, my story is a blend of academic rigor, personal passions, and a continuous quest for knowledge and connection. Whether it’s through law, languages, literature, or LinkedIn, I’m always eager to learn and grow.
How did you start your law school journey?
My law school journey began with an innate passion for justice and a curiosity about the intricacies of our legal system. As I delved deeper into understanding the law, I realized the importance of the CLAT exams for gaining admission into the prestigious National Law Schools.
I dedicated a significant amount of time and effort to prepare for the CLAT, immersing myself in the nuances of legal reasoning, general knowledge, and other relevant subjects. During this preparation phase, I also explored other avenues and filled out forms for some state-run universities in West Bengal, my home state.
This was a strategic move to ensure I had multiple options open to me. As fate would have it, I was presented with an opportunity to join the Department of Law at the University of Calcutta, one of the esteemed institutions in the field of law. I decided to seize this opportunity, and thus, even though I had prepared extensively for the CLAT, I chose not to take the exam.
Joining the University of Calcutta was a pivotal moment in my law school journey. The rich legacy of the institution, combined with the knowledge and experience of the faculty, provided me with a robust foundation in law. My experiences there have shaped my perspective and have further fueled my passion for the field.
How were your initial years in the law school?
My initial years at the Department of Law, University of Calcutta, were both exhilarating and challenging. The transition from preparing for entrance exams to actually immersing myself in the academic rigors of law school was a significant one. The University of Calcutta, with its rich history and esteemed faculty, provided a vibrant learning environment and an unparalleled law school journey.
From the very beginning, I was exposed to a diverse range of legal subjects, each offering its own set of complexities and insights. The curriculum was comprehensive, and it demanded a deep level of engagement and critical thinking.
One of the most enriching aspects of my early years was the interactions with my peers. Being surrounded by a cohort of passionate and driven individuals, each with their unique perspectives and experiences, greatly enhanced my learning experience. Group discussions, moot court sessions, and debates were frequent, and they played a pivotal role in honing my analytical and argumentative skills.
However, like any other journey, there were challenges. Balancing the academic workload with extracurricular activities and personal commitments required meticulous planning and time management. There were moments of self-doubt and anxiety, especially when faced with particularly challenging subjects or assignments. But these challenges were instrumental in shaping my resilience and adaptability.
Outside the classroom, I took advantage of the various opportunities the university offered. Participating in workshops, seminars, and internships provided practical insights into the legal profession and helped bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
In retrospect, my initial years at the University of Calcutta were foundational. They not only equipped me with the academic knowledge required for a career in law but also instilled in me the values of perseverance, collaboration, and continuous learning.
What were your top 3 sources of information while preparing for the law entrance exam? Did you prepare for the exam all by yourself?
While preparing for the law entrance exam, I primarily relied on self-study, and I can attribute my preparation to three main sources of information:
Standardized Textbooks: These were the backbone of my preparation. For legal reasoning and legal knowledge, I delved into some of the renowned textbooks that provided comprehensive coverage of the subjects.
They offered in-depth explanations, case laws, and examples that were instrumental in building a strong foundation.
Online Legal Platforms and Websites: In today’s digital age, there are numerous platforms dedicated to law aspirants. Websites like Lawctopus, Bar & Bench, and Live Law were invaluable.
They provided current legal news, landmark judgments, and articles on various legal topics. Staying updated with these platforms ensured I was aware of the latest developments in the legal field.
They provided current legal news, landmark judgments, and articles on various legal topics. Staying updated with these platforms ensured I was aware of the latest developments in the legal field.
Mock Test Series and Sample Papers: Practice makes perfect. I regularly took mock tests available online and solved previous years’ question papers. This not only helped me get a feel for the exam pattern but also aided in time management and identifying areas that needed more focus.
While these were my primary sources, I also occasionally referred to law journals, magazines, and discussion forums to gain different perspectives and insights on various topics.
Yes, I prepared for the exam all by myself. The journey was challenging, given the vastness of the syllabus and the competitive nature of the exam. However, self-study allowed me to tailor my preparation strategy according to my strengths and weaknesses.
It gave me the flexibility to delve deeper into topics I found challenging and spend less time on areas I was confident in. While group studies and coaching can offer guidance, I believe that with dedication, discipline, and the right resources, self-study can be equally, if not more, effective.
What would you say sets apart your story from others?
My journey in the realm of law has been marked by a series of deliberate choices and unexpected turns, and I believe several aspects set my story apart:
Alternative Pathways: While many aspirants set their sights solely on the CLAT and National Law Schools, my journey was more exploratory. I prepared extensively for the CLAT, but I also kept my options open by applying to state-run universities in West Bengal.
This approach allowed me to weigh multiple opportunities and ultimately led me to the esteemed Department of Law at the University of Calcutta.
Self-reliance in Preparation: In an era where coaching centers and group studies are the norm for competitive exam preparation, I chose the path of self-study. This decision not only shaped my academic journey but also instilled in me a sense of discipline, self-motivation, and the ability to tailor my study strategies to my unique needs.
Embracing Opportunities: Instead of being fixated on a single goal, I remained open to the myriad opportunities that came my way. When presented with the chance to join the University of Calcutta, I embraced it wholeheartedly, recognizing the institution’s rich legacy and the potential for a robust legal education.
Rooted in West Bengal: My story is deeply intertwined with my home state, West Bengal. From exploring state-run universities to eventually joining the University of Calcutta, my journey reflects a deep connection to my roots.
This regional focus has provided me with unique insights and perspectives that might differ from those who pursued law in other parts of the country. In essence, my story is a testament to the idea that there isn’t a singular path to success in the field of law.
Any advice you’d like to pass on to law school aspirants and law students?
Stay Curious: The field of law is vast and ever-evolving. Always remain curious and open to learning. Whether it’s a new judgment, a change in legislation, or a novel legal concept, embrace it with an open mind.
Explore Multiple Avenues: Don’t limit yourself to a single path or goal. As my journey has shown, there are multiple avenues to success in the legal field. Whether it’s national law schools, state universities, or other institutions, each offers its own set of experiences and opportunities.
Trust in Self-Study: While coaching and group studies can be beneficial, never underestimate the power of self-study. It allows you to move at your own pace, delve deeper into topics of interest, and develop a study strategy tailored to your strengths and weaknesses.
Stay Updated: The legal field is dynamic. Regularly read law journals, magazines, and legal news platforms. Being informed about the latest developments not only aids in academic pursuits but also provides a competitive edge in discussions, debates, and interviews.
Engage Beyond Academics: Law school is not just about textbooks and exams. Participate in moot courts, debates, workshops, and internships. These experiences provide practical insights and help in developing essential skills like research, advocacy, and public speaking.
Network: Build relationships with peers, seniors, professors, and professionals in the field. Networking can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and collaborations. It also provides a platform to discuss ideas, seek guidance, and gain diverse perspectives.
Prioritize Well-being: While academic excellence is important, it’s equally crucial to take care of your mental and physical well-being. Find a balance between studies and relaxation. Engage in activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s reading, sports, music, or simply spending time with loved ones.
Stay Resilient: The law school journey and the legal profession will have its ups and downs. There will be challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. Remember to stay resilient, learn from each experience, and always move forward with determination and optimism.
This interview is a part of our series #MyStory where we interview law students and legal professionals.
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Ruchika Mohapatra
Contributing author
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