Fraser Stryker welcomed another outstanding class of talented law students into our 2026 Summer Associate program. In this spotlight, we’re excited to share the experiences and insights of one of this year’s 2L participants, Sam Spethman. Attending the University of Nebraska College of Law, Sam serves as the Vice Dean of the Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity and an Inclusive Leadership Fellow. He is also a Teaching Assistant for Legislation and Regulation and previously supported Legal Analysis, Writing, and Research.
Before law school, Sam earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communication Studies, with a minor in Public Policy Analysis Certification, from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Q: What skills did you strengthen most during your time here, legal or otherwise?
A: I believe the skill I strengthened the most during my time at Fraser Stryker was critical thinking and developing a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be an attorney. Through the variety of assignments, I worked on and the opportunity to observe attorneys in different practice areas, I learned that practicing law extends far beyond legal research and writing. It requires analyzing complex issues from multiple perspectives, exercising sound judgment, communicating effectively with clients and colleagues, and approaching every matter with professionalism and attention to detail. Watching attorneys navigate challenging legal issues and client relationships gave me valuable insight into the practical realities of the profession and helped shape the way I think about practicing law.
Q: Describe a piece of advice from an attorney or mentor that really resonated with you or shifted your perspective.
A: One advice from an attorney that has stayed with me is to be confident. Early on, it can be easy to question your abilities or feel intimidated by the complexity of the work, but I learned that confidence does not mean having all the answers. Rather, it means trusting your training, asking thoughtful questions when you need guidance, and being willing to contribute your ideas. That advice encouraged me to approach assignments with greater confidence and to take advantage of opportunities that challenged me throughout the summer.
Q: What’s one thing you’ll take with you from this experience that will stay with you throughout your career?
A: One thing I will always take away from my summers at Fraser is the people. From the attorneys and staff to my fellow summer associates, everyone was incredibly welcoming, supportive, and generous with their time. Whether it was answering questions, providing thoughtful feedback, inviting me to lunch, or simply taking the time to get to know me, the people at Fraser made a lasting impression.
About Fraser Stryker’s Summer Associate Program
The Summer Associate Program is structured to give summer associates a realistic experience, which is comparable to that of a first-year attorney. Visit the Fraser Stryker Summer Associate Program page to learn more about our program.
This article has been prepared for general information purposes and (1) does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship, (2) is not intended as a solicitation, (3) is not intended to convey or constitute legal advice, and (4) is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a qualified attorney. Always seek professional counsel prior to taking action.