Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, Delhi
Vanshika Dhawan, from Trilokpuri, New Delhi, has relentlessly fought difficult circumstances with an indomitable spirit of determination. She comes from a joint family where constant noise and disturbances left her with no quiet space to study.
Her father, working in catering services, is the sole earner but has little job security and lost his job during the pandemic. Growing up, she witnessed family conflicts, gender inequality, and instances of harassment and abuse, but instead of being discouraged, she took control of her destiny.
After 10th standard, she shifted from a Hindi-medium to an English-medium school, facing a sharp dip in her grades due to the language barrier but persevered to secure a good score in her 12th board exams. Her decision to pursue law was shaped by her father’s experience of losing a crucial legal battle despite his struggle for justice, making her realize the power of legal knowledge.
The lockdown challenged her mental health, making her question her self-worth, but her trainers and mentors from IDIA’s Punjab Chapter provided motivation and holistic support. Now in law school, she has gained substantial experience through internships with distinguished advocates and chambers, focusing on criminal, corporate, and constitutional law.
She has excelled in moot court competitions, holds key positions in committees like Advocates’ Legion and CECL, and actively mentors and volunteers in legal education initiatives. She has also attended national conferences on AI and law, showcasing a keen interest in legal research and writing. Passionate about socio-legal issues, advocacy, and community service, she continues to build her expertise through diverse practical experiences, determined to use law as a tool for justice and empowerment.
