‘My experience studying in India was a positive one’

Esther Nwadike obtained her law degree from Karnataka State Law University, India. She shares her experience studying in India and her future potential in the legal profession. Excerpts.

Please share with Edugist a little about yourself and your background.

My name is Esther Ebubenna Nwadike, and I am a legal practitioner currently working at Star Attorneys in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. I obtained my law degree from Karnataka State Law University in Hubballi, Karnataka State, India.

What motivated you to pursue a legal career?

Truthfully, I wasn’t sure of my intentions at the time; I doubt I had any. I was pretty young and just followed the course of “growing up”. Practically, I needed to complete the next phase of my life after high school.

Can you tell us about your journey and experience studying in India?

My decision to study in India was a spontaneous one. I arrived at Chennai International Airport and was immediately introduced to Indian cuisine with my first taste of Chicken Biryani. Unfortunately, it tasted like toothpaste due to the mint leaves used in the preparation of the rice. My stay in India was generally smooth. I made friends whom I still keep in touch with to this day. Being a food lover, I enjoyed trying out different Indian dishes within my budget and even learned to cook some myself, including Chapatti and Biryani rice.

Studying in India was quite easy, except for the dreaded law exams that all students had to take. The course curriculum was fair, but my final year was packed with practical tasks such as evening chamber attachments and court visits. Thankfully, my professors were always patient and willing to answer any questions I had. I found the teaching method, which was taught-based rather than project-based, to be effective for my learning style.

One of the highlights of my time in India was participating in school festivals like Onam (a festival unique to people from Kerala State) and the annual “Traditional Day” that allowed students to showcase their culture. Interestingly, my college, SDM Law College in Mangalore, Karnataka State, is owned by a Hindu foundation that prioritises education, health, and general well-being. As a result, the premises were strictly vegetarian. Only vegetarian meals were sold in the cafeteria and students were prohibited from bringing meat onto the premises. My experience studying in India was a positive one that I will always cherish.

What strategies did you employ to excel academically and gain practical experience in the field of law?

Currently, I am still in the process of exploring various strategies to help me succeed. However, one approach that has been particularly helpful for me as a student is to be patient with myself and the learning process. This allows me to give myself permission to try new things and to be kind to myself even when I experience setbacks.

In addition, I recognise that no one person can have all the knowledge and expertise necessary to succeed, particularly in the legal profession. For this reason, I make a point of seeking out clarifications or directions when I encounter unfamiliar subjects. I am not afraid to ask for help or guidance, as I know that doing so will ultimately make me a more effective and knowledgeable practitioner. My approach is to be open-minded and willing to learn from others, while also being patient and kind to myself as I continue on my journey.

What specific courses or areas of study within law did you find most challenging, and how did you overcome those challenges?

With all sense of humility, I never found any course challenging. Each course was unique and I just enjoyed the learning process.

What areas of law are you particularly interested in, and why?

Just Sports Law. The why will be answered in the near future.

What extracurricular activities or leadership roles have contributed to your personal and professional growth?

I’d like to specialise in Sports Law, so I’m taking courses to enhance my knowledge on the subject. Additionally, I try to follow sports trends, to ensure that I keep myself updated with live events.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the field of law? Are there any specific journals, websites, or industry events you follow?

For Sports Law which is my area of interest, I subscribed to LawInSport which sends weekly newsletters on the legal trends in the sports industry. Also, I took advantage of LinkedIn to connect with professionals in sports law. Similarly, Twitter is my best source for sports updates. However, for general law issues in Nigeria, I’m subscribed to Lawpadi monthly newsletter. 

Do you have any role models in the law profession?

Generally, I don’t. I am my own role model. However, my boss, Barr. Ndifreke Akpan (Lead Attorney of Star Attorneys) is the best human to learn from. For the Sports Profession, I’ll add Lord David Pannick.

How do you envision your future in the legal profession and what impact do you hope to make?

I do not envision a lot of things. I just want to make a lot of money, with or without the legal profession.

What advice would you give to other young individuals who aspire to pursue a legal career?

First, be sure it’s what you want or at least what you might like in the future. Also, be patient with the learning process, do what you can, but never leave anything to chance.