In this conversation with CLATalogue, Uday Bansal from Institute of Law, Kurukshetra University talks about his Law School Journey and gives tips to excel in law school.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Uday Bansal. I am a highly motivated and dedicated 3rd-year law student at the Institute of Law, Kurukshetra University. I have excelled academically, particularly in Company law. My journey thus far has allowed me to develop a strong foundation in legal principles and enhance my practical skills through active participation in moot court competitions.
Additionally, I’ve enriched my legal knowledge by attending various webinars and engaging in other activities that complement my academic pursuits. With a passion for pursuing a successful career in the legal field, I am committed to be a successful lawyer.
How did you start your journey in the field of law?
My journey into law is a family legacy. With both my dad and granddad in the legal world, courtrooms were like a second home. I decided to follow suit and officially joined the club after acing the CLAT exam. Moot court sessions and debates added a practical twist to my legal upbringing. Now, I’m weaving my own story in the legal realm, influenced by a family tradition of advocating for justice.
How were your initial years in the law school?
In the early years of law school, things felt a bit tricky for me. See, I switched from commerce in 12th grade, where I only knew about debits and credits. Law was like a whole new world. Understanding legal stuff was tough at first.
Now, as I head into my third year, things are getting clearer. The basic law courses, which used to be confusing, are starting to make sense. I’m slowly getting the hang of legal principles. Taking part in moot court sessions and legal competitions has been a game-changer. It helps bridge the gap between what I knew from commerce and what law school expects.
Even though law seemed tough at the beginning, I’m getting better at it. My unique journey from commerce to law adds a different flavor to how I see things. Looking forward, I’m positive about getting even more comfortable with legal jargon and exploring the remaining years of law school.
What motivated you to pursue law as a career?
Choosing law as my career was like a natural next step for me. You see, my dad and granddad are both into law, so I practically grew up surrounded by legal stuff. Watching them fight for justice and make a difference inspired me big time.
I’ve always had this thing for justice and how the legal system works. It just made sense to explore law as a way to dive into that passion. Getting into moot court sessions and legal competitions during my studies showed me how law isn’t just about books – it’s about making things happen in real life.
What really gets me going is the idea that law can do good things, not just for individuals but for society. Being part of that positive change is what I’m aiming for. So, my motivation to make law my career is a mix of family influence, a love for justice, hands-on experiences, and the drive to contribute something meaningful to the legal world and beyond.
What were your top 3 sources of information while preparing for the law entrance exam? Did you prepare for the exam all by yourself?
When I was getting ready for the law entrance exam, my top three go-to sources were the official CLAT study materials – they had all the important stuff like what to study and practice papers. I also used some books made just for CLAT prep, which explained things well and had practice questions.
Another big help was online mock tests and platforms designed for the CLAT exam. Doing these practice tests online was like a sneak peek into the real deal, helping me figure out where I needed to improve. Now, did I do all this by myself? Well, not entirely. Along with studying on my own, I sometimes got tips from teachers and friends. We’d share notes and ideas, making it a bit more fun and less stressful. It turned out to be a good mix of solo and group study that got me ready for the exam.
What would you say sets apart your story from others?
What makes my story unique among others is the rich tapestry of my family’s legal legacy intertwined with my personal journey. Growing up with both my father and grandfather as advocates created an environment where legal discussions were a part of everyday life.
This familial connection to the legal profession not only inspired my choice to pursue law but also shaped my perspective on justice and advocacy. Moreover, transitioning from a commerce background in the 12th grade to law school added a distinctive layer to my narrative. Starting with a limited understanding of concepts like debits and credits, I navigated the complexities of law, bringing a fresh and unconventional viewpoint to my academic and professional pursuits.
My commitment to law is not just driven by familial influence; it stems from an inherent passion for justice. Active participation in moot court sessions and legal competitions, coupled with a genuine desire to contribute positively to the legal community, has been a defining aspect of my journey.
In essence, my story stands out for its blend of family tradition, a unique educational transition, and a heartfelt dedication to the principles of justice, creating a narrative that is both personal and distinctive in the broader context of pursuing a career in law
Any advice you’d like to pass on to law school aspirants and law students?
First off, find a balance between hitting the books and working smart. Law school is no joke, so make sure your study routine is on point. Time management is key; juggling lectures, readings, and, let’s be real, some downtime is crucial.
Now, let’s talk about the cool stuff – legal throwdowns. Get into moot court or mock trials; it’s like the Olympics of the legal world, boosting your street cred and skills. Networking is not just a buzzword; it’s your golden ticket. Swap out solo Netflix nights for rubbing shoulders with professors and legal big shots. Google becomes your bestie – master the art of finding legal gems online for killer research.
When it comes to writing, keep it clear and simple. Legal gossip is a legit thing; stay in the loop with hot cases and law drama. Beyond the books, get involved in clubs and pro bono work. Professors are more than just grade-givers; they can be your mentors. Don’t procrastinate on bar exam prep – start early, so you’re not stressing when it counts. And hey, embrace the professional vibe but stay true to yourself. Lastly, your mental health is non-negotiable.
Law school can be intense, so take care of yourself and don’t hesitate to seek support. Remember, it’s not just about acing exams; it’s about enjoying the ride and becoming a legal rockstar. You’ve got this!
