I pursued an integrated Engineering and Law degree from a reputed private law school, with an interest in the intersection of technology and law. During my academic years, I interned across law chambers, corporate firms, and in data privacy and tech law space. However, after graduating during the COVID-19 crisis, job opportunities in my area of interest were extremely limited. With financial obligations and student loans to manage, I accepted a role in intellectual property (patents) at a law firm. While I have tried to make the most of this opportunity, including qualifying the Indian Patent Agent exam and gaining nearly three years of experience, the truth is, my interests have always been in technology law, not patents. Despite my efforts to adapt and perform well, I’ve increasingly felt burnt out, mentally exhausted, and professionally unfulfilled. The work does not align with my long-term interests, and each day feels so heavy.

Throughout this time, I have consistently applied to leading tech law and policy firms, including Ikigai, Spice Route, CAM, and others but have not received favourable responses. I had a conversation with a partner at a prominent tech policy firm who reaffirmed my concerns that there’s a clear hiring bias, and my current experience doesn’t easily translate into the tech law profiles I aspire to. That said, I don’t see myself working in patents in the long term and I know I need to pivot. I’ve done everything I could to stay connected to the tech law space, but opportunities have been few. Please give me some advice and direction on how to realign my career with my original aspirations in data privacy, digital rights, AI regulation, and broader tech policy.

I’m ready to put in the effort it takes to make this transition. I just need a path forward, and would truly value your advice or support in making that shift happen.