It’s crazy to think that in about a month, I’ll be getting ready for finals which will wrap up my first semester of law school. Time is surely flying by and that’s largely because the law school experience so far has been (dare I say it) an enjoyable one. Whenever family, friends, or kind followers ask me about law school and how it’s going, I take a moment to reflect and realize that I have no complaints. I heard so much about the first year being the toughest yet, but I’m really happy to say that so far so good.
I don’t have any grades back to attest to any sort of academic achievement. But regardless, I’m in a place where I am placing less emphasis on grades and more emphasis on what I’m feeling through this experience. And right now I can tell you that law school feels way better than my entire undergrad experience. Let’s get into why law school already feels better than undergrad:
Leaning on the Lord
When I came into law school, Proverbs 3:5-6 was weighing HEAVY on my spirit. I even have part of that scripture quoted on my desk. Going into Harvard for college, I knew it was God who had gotten me there. Yet, somewhere along the way I lost sight of His role in sustaining me while I was there. That’s not to say that He didn’t, because He certainly did. But I just knew I wasn’t as dedicated to my pursuit of Him. In college I spent more time trying to lean on my own understanding than on His. Now, as a law student and just an older individual who has learned some important life lessons, I make more of an active effort to seek His face. I’ve been blessed with a home church that has a shuttle that can take me from Harlem, where I live, straight to the door of the church in Brooklyn (so I really have no room for excuses).
In college I spent more time trying to lean on my own understanding than on His.
Perhaps more importantly I feel more open about incorporating my relationship with God in my day to day life through conversations with friends and family. I guess if I’m being real with myself, I was afraid of having the stereotypical “church girl” image in college. Freshman year Eni wouldn’t have possibly imagined voicing my love for God on such a public space like this blog, but being able to bring Christ into all aspects of my life has been the number one reason why law school is a significantly better experience for me. I’ve learned my lesson that I really can’t do life without Him.
Saying “No” Often
Straight through the gate, I came into law school knowing I did not want to spread myself too thin with extracurricular responsibilities like I did in undergrad. Plenty of organizations have positions for 1Ls on their executive board, I didn’t even hesitate to say no to anyone who would ask me to run. While there are plenty of opportunities to be social and go to happy hours, if I’m not feeling it (which I’m usually not) I will say no in a heartbeat. The rule is, if I genuinely don’t want to be there, I don’t do it. Time is too precious at this stage in life. As a result of saying no more often, my time management has significantly improved. I sleep more (which is really the most important thing because I will be the LAST person to take pride in how little sleep I’m getting) and have time to other things that I genuinely love.
Staying in the Gym
I was so inconsistent when it came to my fitness in college but I’ve found that going to the gym helps me feel sane and releases stress. Luckily I’m in a neighborhood that has a branch of the same gym that I used to go to back home in Queens, so when I moved and started classes, it was a seamless transition. Even if I only have 30 min to spare at the gym, being able to go makes all the difference for my day.
As a result of saying no more often, my time management has significantly improved.
Realizing Home Is Where The Heart Is
I love New York City. I didn’t realize how much I loved New York until I moved away for college. I love the hustle and bustle as well as the easy access to a number of fun activities and resources, but there is also a lot to be said about the idea that home is where the heart is. Being away from home made me realize how important family is to me and especially how important it is for me to physically see my family. Now as a law school student in New York I get to see my family at least once a well on Sunday’s at church or go home whenever I feel like it. I’m very grateful for that because it keeps me grounded and reminds me that I have people praying and rooting for me.
There is also a lot to be said about the idea that home is where the heart is.
Letting It All Out
I don’t know why, but I definitely used to be the type of person to hold a lot in. I generally wouldn’t talk to people about my thoughts, feelings or struggles, nor did I have any sort of way to express them. Maintaining this blog has been my mode of self-expression to the world (thank you so so much for reading by the way). On top of that I have been way more open to friends about my day to day experiences, law school related or not. I’d definitely advise finding at least one person or forum to share your thoughts with.
“Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.” Ephesians 4:23-24
