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 2L participants, McKayla Celis. Pursuing hr J.D. at Creighton University School of Law, McKayla will serve as an Associate Staff member of the Creighton Law Review, Volume 59. She was a Property Law Tutor for first-year students and is involved in several student organizations, including the Labor & Employment Law Society, Sports & Entertainment Law Society, and J. Reuben Clark Law Society.
McKayla earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a minor in Human Resources Management, from Utah State University. After graduation, she served as a Judicial Assistant for the Third District Court in Salt Lake City, Utah, gaining valuable insight into the legal system and courtroom operations.
Q: Going into the program, what areas of law were you most drawn to? How have your interests shifted, or become more focused, through your time here?
A: Heading into my 2L summer I knew I had a strong interest in the corporate and business side of law. This summer not only reaffirmed that interest but also gave me greater clarity about the types of transactions I could be involved in as an associate at Fraser Stryker after graduation. At the same time, I appreciated the opportunity to contribute to litigation projects, which broadened my overall legal experience.
Q: Tell us about a moment where you felt you made a meaningful contribution to a case, project, or team effort.
A: I conducted research for an attorney who had limited knowledge on the specific topic and was relying on my research to help advise a client. My research formed the basis of our recommendations, and I was able to clearly inform the attorney of the appropriate course of action for the client. Later in the summer, the client followed up with additional work related to the original issue, and I was given the opportunity to continue assisting, based on the reliability of my earlier contributions.
Q: What was your favorite social or out-of-office experience this summer, and what made it memorable?
A: My favorite social event this summer was the Attorney Summer Social that kicks off the summer and is held at an attorney’s home. This one was memorable because nearly all of the attorneys attended, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment. It was a great opportunity for the summer associates to connect with attorneys from across the firm in a more personal setting outside the office.
Q: What insights or words of wisdom would you pass along to next year’s Summer Associate class?
A: Make it a goal to work on at least one project from every practice area during your summer experience. While you may discover that you really enjoy working with a particular attorney or within a specific practice area, it’s equally important to explore a variety of work. Exposing yourself to different types of projects ensures a well-rounded experience and might lead you to interests you didn’t expect. You never know what area of law might resonate with you until you try it.
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.