AFTER years of relentless hard work and sacrifice, Reeya Nitasha Prasad career hopes are dawning.
She currently embarks on a new chapter in her legal career, pursuing a professional diploma in legal practice (PDLP).
Growing up, the proud alumna of Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School enjoyed an upbringing deeply rooted in the vibrance of an extended family. This inculcated in her a strong sense of community and belonging.
Though she has one younger brother, Aarav, it is the companionship of her many cousins that has nurtured in her the warmth and closeness of a large family.
“Growing up was an enriching and formative experience, largely due to the unique dynamic of living with my extended family,” she shared with this newspaper.
“This environment offered me a perspective beyond my immediate peer group, allowing me to understand and connect with individuals from a wide array of backgrounds.
“The early exposure to diverse viewpoints has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and adaptability, qualities that have proven invaluable throughout my academic and personal journey.”
Ms Prasad’s ambition has always been to become a lawyer, driven by a profound belief in the principles of justice. Over time, however, her perspective expanded to include academia.
“Watching my father, a current PhD candidate in biology, teach at university, I saw not just an educator but a compelling storyteller who inspired the minds of others to wonder.
“My admiration was further solidified by my fiancé who is currently an assistant instructor and pursuing his masters in engineering.
“This exposure to their dedication in the academic sphere has truly moulded my secondary ambition of becoming a lecturer, where I can share my knowledge and inspire others.”
Ms Prasad’s tertiary journey felt like a roller coaster as she transitioned from high school and faced new and demanding challenges.
“This period of academic rigor compelled me to explore life beyond what I had previously imagined, fostering my independence and resilience.”
Gratitude plays a central role in her story. She acknowledges her parents, relatives and friends, whose emotional, financial and physical support, have been the cornerstone of her achievements.
In her free time, she gravitates towards pursuits that offer both relaxation and intellectual growth.
“I find great enjoyment in reading, listening to music, and watching films, always with an eye toward learning something new. These hobbies are not merely pastimes, they are essential to my well-being, helping me maintain a healthy life balance and keeping my mind sharp and creative.”
Over the next five years, she envisions herself holding a master’s degree and building a reputation as a proficient, impactful lawyer.
“My ultimate goal is to become an expert in my chosen legal field, making a significant contribution to both my firm and the legal community at large.
“I am committed to continuous learning and professional development to achieve this ambition.”
She advises those pursuing the same field to undertake an internship at a legal firm or department as early as possible in their studies.
“I have witnessed numerous classmates choose a different path after realising the intimate and demanding nature of the profession.
“This hands-on experience is truly formative.
“My own internship at Kumar Goundar Lawyers enabled me to transcend my comfort zone and solidified my resolve to tackle future challenges with confidence and determination.”
