Internship Experience @ IDIA– Increasing Diversity for Increasing Access to Legal Education, Kolkata: Great Sense of Satisfaction

Your Name, College, Year of Study, Email ID

Anonymous

Name of Organisation, Location city, Team Strength

IDIA- Increasing Diversity for Increasing Access to Legal Education, Kolkata

Application Process

IDIA West Bengal Chapter is being run by the students of NUJS. They conduct interviews every year for the selection of members and volunteers.

Duration of internship and timings

Connected since my first year.

Before I begin to share my experience, I would like to mention what IDIA is. IDIA is a pan project started by Prof Shamnad Basheer and few other trustees. Mostly the students of National law schools are a part of it.

This project is basically meant for the students who are still at their school level and possess the dream of studying in National Law Students but their dreams are suppressed due to financial crunch. The law students train such students for CLAT for one full year.

First impression, first day formalities, infrastructure

The very thought behind the concept of IDIA is impressive. Though my first day experience is very funny which the senior members still remember. I had directly applied for the post of Team Leader in my first year itself and had confidently given interview to Shamnad sir. However due to lack of experience I ended up being selected as a member only. 😛

Main tasks

I was a part of sensitization, teaching as well as promotion team of the Chapter. Under sensitization, the team member go to the schools which cover the criteria. The students are tested as per an aptitude test followed by a brief interview regarding their interests.

Than comes the role of teaching department. Teachers train them throughout the year.

The promotion team promotes IDIA at various forums. We conducted special stalls during our College- Fest, the other team organised a sports match among law firms. One may also take part in the regular IDIA-conferences.

The Research team focuses on the research related to law, CLAT, law schools and various other aspects.

The Material department frames questions and sets model papers for the students.

There are many other National Verticals as well.

Work environment and people

Since all the members and volunteers are of the same college, it becomes easier to coordinate. The faculty adviser as well as the head of the chapter are very helpful.

Best things

When your student clears the CLAT list and his/her name appears on the IDIA Website and you share the post with a smile you feel proud that you were a part of his/ her journey 😀

Bad things

The stories of these students always keep you inspired. However, just like you take credit for the success of your student, you hold yourself equally responsible when their dreams are broken. This is mostly due to the unexpected question pattern CLAT committee follows which becomes strenuous especially for those coming from vernacular mediums.

Stipend

None

Biggest Lessons

My senior is an IDIA Scholar who came from a marginal background. She once shared her story how this legal education has helped her. Now her villagers know their rights.

Similarly, another senior as well as IDIA Scholar Aravind, popularly known for his jolly nature, who is visually challenged; yet keeps motivating me all the time.

IDIA inspires me always. 🙂

Any Other Thing

All the students must consider IDIA as their Social Responsibility. It gives a great sense of satisfaction.