Law School Housekeeping

Final year law student, Anoushka Patel shares golden rules and must-haves of law school

Law school can get tedious and overwhelming especially during your first year. There are certain tips and tricks that will get you through your first year at university unscathed, follow them religiously.

1. Don’t compare yourself to others- You are just getting started, it is absolutely okay if you do not score distinctions or high distinctions just as long as you are giving it your best. Transition into university can be difficult and adjusting to the changed environment, people and education deliverance is bound to send one scampering away. So, in the midst of all the newness stop comparing your grades with your peers and making your life more miserable, everyone learns at their own pace as do you.

2. Socialize- Find new friends or mentors, someone who is journeying into law school with you can make things easier and less stressful. Attend events and new student meetups but also do so at your own pace. If too many people make you nervous, take it slow. Bonus, there will always be student mentors and the Dictum Society to aid you whenever you need.

3. Buy a pair or two of formals- Thinking that things will not get professional in your first year, might be a mistake you may not want to make. There will be mooting competitions, networking events or seminars where you will be required to dress formal. So, instead of having to make end moment runs at pricey stores, explore and buy one now.

4. Set-up a timetable- You might want to organize your study schedule around your life so that you get enough reading in but don’t overload yourself. Do not leave your assignments for the last, it will only cause you grief and result in poor performance. Avoid late night studying and take sufficient breaks. Remember: law students are humans too!

Law School Housekeeping

Final year law student, Anoushka Patel shares golden rules and must-haves of law school

5. Make the most of resources available at university- There are several resources like the learning hub, writing mentors, peer-topeer mentoring programs and lots more that you can utilise while on campus. You are not in this alone, so do not hesitate to ask for help. If you are unaware of where to go, contact any member of the Dictum Society, we will be there to guide you.

6. Interact in class- Professors at university appreciate class interaction the most, it leads to student development. Key: University is unlike school, you will not be spoon fed by your teachers, you want answers, go get them. The legal world functions on communication, start with learning this in class and doing so outside will not seem so daunting anymore.

To summarize, during your first-year at law school you may feel extremely lost, but there is always help around the corner, ask for it. Take part in competitions, it will help build connections and teach you a thing or two, for there is no exposure like practical exposure.

"The legal world functions on communication, start with learning this in class and doing so outside will not seem so daunting anymore. "