What I Wish I Knew Before Studying Law

A Personal Reflection by a Current Law Student 

When I decided to study law, I pictured exciting courtroom drama, confident lawyers arguing about human rights, and the chance to make a difference in the world. While some of that excitement still motivates me, the reality of law school has proven to be more complicated — and at times tougher — than I anticipated. 

Here are some things I wish I had known before starting my journey. 

1. It’s Not Just About Passion — It’s About Stamina 

I cared deeply about justice, but I didn’t realize how tough law school would be. The amount of reading is overwhelming. Some cases are more than 50 pages long, and the legal language can be hard to understand. While passion is important, having endurance and discipline is equally crucial. 

What I do now: I manage my time with the Pomodoro technique, summarize cases into shorter pieces, and ask for help when needed. 

2. It’s Easy to Feel Out of Place 

Imposter syndrome is real. You find yourself in lecture halls with extremely smart people, and sometimes you think, “Do I really belong here?” It’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially when your grades don’t show how hard you’ve worked. 

What I've learned: Everyone faces challenges, even those who seem to excel. Law school isn't about being perfect; it’s about making progress. 

3. The Law Doesn’t Always Work Fairly 

This was a hard truth for me to accept. As I studied more, I realized that the law often protects those in power while ignoring those who need help. This can be discouraging — but it also motivates me to strive for change. 

4. You Don’t Need to Pick Your Specialization Right Away 

At first, I felt pressured to choose: Criminal law? Corporate law? Human rights? But I've come to understand that it’s perfectly fine to take your time exploring different areas. 

5. Time Management is Essential 

Balancing different subjects, assignments, and projects while keeping your sanity requires real planning. I now rely on tools like Notion, Trello, and Quizlet. They help me stay organized, manage deadlines, and study more effectively. 


6. Take Care of Your Mental Health 

Feeling burnt out is something many experience. There were times when I felt emotionally worn out, especially during exams. I've learned that it's important to make time for rest, journaling, and breaks — law school doesn’t mean you have to ignore your well-being. 



7. Build a Support Network 

Whether it’s classmates who turn into study partners, teachers who provide advice, or online groups sharing helpful resources — the support you create can help you through tough times. 


Final Thoughts 

If you're thinking about studying law or feeling stressed by it right now, remember this: you are not alone. The path can be challenging but also rewarding. You will grow intellectually, emotionally, and ethically. Law school influences not just your career but also your way of thinking. 

Eventually, all those late nights and extensive readings will pay off when you use your knowledge to make a difference in people’s lives. 

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