Fraser Stryker welcomed another outstanding class of talented law students into our 2025 Summer Associate program. In this spotlight, we’re excited to share the experiences and insights of one of this year’s 1L participants, Emma Collins. Studying at the University of Iowa College of Law, Emma is a member of the Organization of Women Law Students and Staff (OWLSS) and will serve as a writing center tutor at the law school starting this fall.
Emma completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, earning a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology, with honors. She served as a Student Conduct Board Officer with the University’s Student Affairs Office. Before beginning law school, Emma also worked as a Legal Administrative Assistant at Fraser Stryker.
Q: What skills did you strengthen most during your time here, legal or otherwise?
A: This summer, I significantly strengthened my legal research skills. After completing my 1L year, I was still intimidated by research. What I learned over the summer is that 1) it’s okay when there isn’t always a clear answer, 2) perfect case law won’t always exist to support your legal question, and 3) trusting yourself in your research abilities is key. I now feel confident that when I return to Iowa Law this semester, research will no longer be intimidating, and I’m excited to continue developing this skill!
Q: Tell us about a moment where you felt you made a meaningful contribution to a case, project, or team effort.
A: While drafting a complaint this summer, I identified additional damages that I thought we could pursue. I brought the idea to the attorney, who agreed it was worth raising with the client. The client also supported the addition. It felt rewarding to make a meaningful contribution to the case and, potentially, to the client’s overall recovery.
Q: Looking back, what’s one piece of advice you’d give yourself at the start of the summer?
A: If I could give myself one piece of advice before starting the summer, it would be to trust myself. I was initially anxious about doing real legal work because it didn’t feel like the 1L core classes had fully prepared me. But that anxiety turned out to be unnecessary. Everyone at Fraser Stryker is genuinely invested in your success and provides the support and tools you need to grow. Over the summer, I watched my confidence build day by day. Looking back, I wish I hadn’t spent a single moment worrying and had instead trusted my ability to produce good work.
Q: What insights or words of wisdom would you pass along to next year’s Summer Associate class?
A: If I could give one piece of advice to next year’s Summer Associate Class, it would be this: You’re going to have an incredible summer at Fraser Stryker. Don’t spend any time stressing about the first day. Every attorney here is truly excited to work with you and that is exactly why you are here. Before you know it, it will be early August, you will be finishing your last projects, and you will feel a real sense of sadness that the time has come to an end.
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.