Are We There Yet?

 It's a question we've all asked at some point—whether as restless children on a long road trip or as adults navigating the winding roads of our own ambitions. For me, this question echoed throughout my law school years and Bar review journey. The finish line always seemed so far away, and I often caught myself fixating on the end goal: the degree, the Bar exam results, the title of attorney. But in doing so, I realized how easy it is to overlook the beauty of the moments in between—the growth, the lessons, the camaraderie, and even the quiet hours of self-reflection. Perhaps the real achievement isn’t just reaching the destination but learning to appreciate the road that takes us there. 

My journey to ATTY. can easily be summed up in three words: Passion, Grit, and Faith. 

Passion

My "why" for entering law school was clear: I had this deep desire to contribute to policymaking. After observing firsthand in the industries I worked in how poorly crafted policies harm our economy, I felt compelled to make a difference. This passion drove me to approach the study of law as more than just an academic exercise confined to the classroom. I actively participated in school activities, joined student organizations, and sought opportunities to apply what I was learning in real-world contexts. Curiosity became my compass—I was eager to ask questions, clarify uncertainties, and dive deeper into topics our professors might have glossed over. I was that annoying classmate who always raised her hand just as the class was about to end.

This active engagement not only fueled my passion but also made studying the law easier. Complex legal concepts were easier to understand when I could imagine their practical applications, connecting theory to reality. It was this blend of passion, curiosity, and real-world insight that brought the law to life for me.

Grit

I quickly realized that thriving in law school, especially when you’re not naturally book-smart, comes down to one thing: grit. Acknowledging my weaknesses, I knew I had to work harder than others and spend more time sharpening the tools I had. This meant being intentional about protecting myself from unnecessary stressors and tackling the root causes of my mental health struggles. Suffering from severe anxiety, I made it non-negotiable to practice mindfulness and take care of my body, knowing that a sharp mind required a healthy foundation. 

I also chose the long, often uncomfortable path to growth over the tempting shortcuts. I did not skip tough professors, read full case texts, and embraced the challenge of mastering concepts without skipping steps. This required patience and the ability to endure the discomfort of consistently going the extra mile. I trained myself to focus on the long-term benefits rather than the fleeting relief of an easy pass.

Though I was hard on myself during law school, it paid off in the end. When it was time for the Bar review, I realized I had already done the hard work years in advance. The patience, effort, and discipline I cultivated during those years allowed me to reap the rewards when it mattered most.

Faith

Atty. Mann was right: passing the Bar exam is a superhuman feat—one that only God can orchestrate. Every law student’s faith will be tested, and it’s only through surrendering what we cannot control to Him can we truly find peace and joy in the journey of becoming a lawyer.

Surviving the Bar exam felt almost impossible for me. I wish I could recount every challenge, but the truth is simple: I could not have made it through without God’s will. After doing my part—reading, comprehending, and analyzing—I entrusted everything else to His divine generosity. From the moment I finished the exam to the day the results were released, I found myself in tears of gratitude, thanking Him daily for carrying me through. He reminded me that He does not forsake those who remain humble and faithful.

To those still navigating law school, I encourage you to reflect on your faith. Ask yourself how strong it is, and how much stronger it can become. It’s never too late to turn to Him, to trust in His plan, and to embrace the strength that only He can provide. Faith doesn’t just guide us through the impossible—it transforms the journey itself into something meaningful and deeply fulfilling.

Although my journey was far from perfect, I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m grateful I took the break I needed, retook the subjects I struggled with, and embraced the challenge of leading different student organizations. As much as it's important to take law school seriously, don’t forget to take a step back and enjoy life outside of your studies. Touch some grass. Get involved. Care beyond your own interests. Doing so will make the ride much more enjoyable! And never forget that you are exactly where you are supposed to be.