After years of commitment and perseverance, Jessica Singh’s dream has finally come true.
The 23-year-old is proud to be the first in her family to graduate as a lawyer, an accomplishment that links back to her childhood.
She grew up an inquisitive child who loved to read and watch movies about courtroom drama.
Furthermore, she found joy in discovering new concepts and ideas.
“I spent countless hours at the library, diving into books that sparked my imagination and broadened my horizons,” she said.
“There was something captivating about the way lawyers articulated their arguments, fought for justice, and stood up for people who couldn’t defend themselves.
Legal stories planted seeds of curiosity in her, however, she never imagined she would one day pursue a career in law. Destiny had a mind of its own.
“While my journey to law may not have been straightforward, it now feels like the path I was always meant to walk. The curiosity I nurtured as a child and the values I admired in those fictional lawyers — justice, fairness, and service — are cornerstones of the work I have studied to do today.”
“Life has a way of leading us exactly where we need to be, and for that, I am grateful.”
Before Ms Singh made the decision to pursue law, she was deeply interested in science.
In fact, throughout her early education and secondary studies, she envisioned a future career in medicine.
“I envisioned myself one day becoming a medical practitioner, using science to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. However, my father had always dreamed of me becoming a lawyer. ”
Out of love and respect for her dad she eventually switched.
“It was not an easy shift, but I wanted to honour his wish and make him proud.”
“I found that my initial doubts gave way to a growing passion. I realised that law, like science, required analytical thinking, problem-solving and a disciplined approach. More importantly, it aligned with my desire to serve others and contribute meaningfully to society.
Ms Singh describes herself as someone ‘deeply committed to helping others’, driven by a relentless focus on achieving her goals while continually seeking opportunities for growth.
She believes that being one of the newly sworn-in lawyers is a personal milestone.
“Throughout this journey, my family has been my unwavering support system. Their belief in my abilities has been a constant source of encouragement, especially during the challenging times when I faced academic pressures.
“When I was sworn in, it was not just a proud moment for me but a collective celebration of our shared efforts and sacrifices. I could see the pride in their eyes, knowing this achievement was the culmination of our collective journey. My parents were filled with emotion as they witnessed me reach a significant milestone — becoming the first lawyer in our family.”
Moving forward, Ms Singh hopes to gain practical experience in the legal field, especially in areas she is deeply passionate about.
She encourages individuals planning to follow the same career path to embrace the inevitable as opportunities for growth.
“Staying focused on your goals is essential. Set clear, achievable objectives and create a roadmap to guide you along the way. Time management is equally important as the demands of law school and the profession can be intense. Prioritising your tasks, establishing a study routine and allowing time for self-care can help maintain a healthy balance and prevent burnout.
“Ultimately, while the path may be demanding, the rewards of a legal career are profound. You have the opportunity to advocate for justice, influence positive change, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities.”