Shikha S, a Soft Skills Trainer at Mangalmay Institute of Management & Technology, shares invaluable insights based on her journey as a law student and her professional career. As someone who has experienced the ups and downs of academia and the corporate world, Shikha’s perspective serves as a beacon for those who are eager to grow, learn, and avoid common mistakes that could hinder success. Through her reflections, we see not just her growth but also her commitment to helping others avoid similar pitfalls. Her wisdom speaks to anyone navigating the complexities of education and career development.
Shikha S believes that the path to success is often cluttered with challenges, especially when it comes to higher education and early career decisions. As a law student, she made mistakes that many others in similar fields are likely to encounter. Reflecting on these experiences, Shikha S offers practical advice to students, young professionals, and anyone starting their journey toward personal and professional growth.
The first key lesson Shikha S imparts is the importance of prioritizing skills over grades. It’s easy to become fixated on academic success, especially in competitive environments like law school. However, Shikha S reminds us that focusing solely on grades can detract from developing the real-world skills necessary for success in the professional world. While good grades are important, mastering skills such as legal research, contract drafting, and networking should be the primary focus. These are the tools that will help individuals excel in their careers, and Shikha S’s experience proves that practical skills are what truly make a difference in the long run.
Another significant insight that Shikha S shares is about the importance of networking early in one’s academic journey. Many students fall into the trap of thinking they can “get serious” only after graduation. Shikha S, however, advocates for the opposite. Networking should be a priority from the start. By stepping out of one’s comfort zone, students can explore opportunities, gain insights into their field, and discover what truly excites them. For Shikha S, waiting too long to network was a mistake she wishes she had avoided, and she encourages everyone to begin connecting with peers, professors, and professionals early on.
In the competitive field of law, writing and publishing play a crucial role in setting oneself apart. Shikha S shares her hesitation about publishing her work early in her career, worried about it not being perfect. This fear, she reflects, almost cost her valuable opportunities. By taking the leap and publishing her research, Shikha S received attention from mentors and unlocked new doors in her career. Her advice? Start writing and sharing ideaswhether it’s through blogs, articles, or LinkedIn posts. Visibility matters, and it can help propel your career forward.
Shikha S also highlights the importance of internships, which bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice. Internships are often seen as mere resume fillers, but Shikha S stresses that they are much more than that. These hands-on experiences provide a deeper understanding of the subject matter, helping students grasp complex concepts that may seem abstract in the classroom. In her own journey, Shikha S found that the lessons she learned during internships gave her a practical edge over her peers. Internships, she believes, should be seen as opportunities to apply knowledge in real settings, not just as something to add to a resume.
Another key lesson Shikha S imparts is the importance of asking for help when needed. Like many students, she struggled with her dissertation but hesitated to reach out to her professors for guidance. It was only after a mentor encouraged her to seek support that Shikha S realized asking for help is not a sign of weakness but rather a strength. In her words, whether it’s a professor, senior, or professional in your field, don’t shy away from asking for advice or clarification. Reaching out for help can lead to significant personal growth and help avoid unnecessary roadblocks.
Shikha S’s overarching message is one of proactivity and continuous learning. By staying proactive, building real-world skills, and investing time in networking, individuals can set themselves up for success without making the same mistakes she made. It’s clear that Shikha S’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that personal and professional development is an ongoing journey, and by learning from others’ experiences, we can avoid unnecessary setbacks and move forward with confidence.
For those who are about to begin their academic or professional journey, Shikha S offers a simple yet powerful takeaway: invest in yourself, don’t fear failure, and be proactive in building the skills that matter. You don’t need to make these mistakes yourself to learn from them. By following Shikha S’s advice, you’ll be better equipped to navigate your own path with clarity and purpose.
In conclusion, Shikha S’s reflections are a testament to the importance of continuous learning, self-improvement, and the courage to make mistakes and learn from them. As a Soft Skills Trainer, her lessons extend beyond the academic realm, providing valuable guidance for anyone looking to thrive in both their personal and professional lives. By sharing her story, Shikha S not only highlights the challenges she faced but also provides a roadmap for others to avoid the same missteps and ultimately succeed in their endeavors.
