We’re thrilled to welcome our 2025 summer associates!
This year, seven bright law students are spending the season gaining practical legal experience at Ward and Smith, from case strategy discussions to writing and research assignments. The program provides them with a strong foundation—and some great memories, too.
We’re also taking the opportunity to highlight each of them in our “Meet the Summer Associate” series.
Get to know Stephanie Moore:
Hometown: Williamston, NC
School: Campbell University School of Law, 2L
Would you like to share something about your family?
I am from a tight-knit family whose love and support have made me who I am today. My family is always in my corner, believing I can do the impossible.
What do you like to do in your downtime when you're not studying?
I have a four-year-old Beagle named Cooper. I love walking with him and watching him chase squirrels when I am not studying.
What is your favorite book?
The Hunger Games
What is your favorite food?
Steak or Crab Legs
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
Nags Head, North Carolina, or Emerald Isle, North Carolina
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
The beach.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
I met my boyfriend in college at East Carolina University. We have been together for five years and recently got engaged.
Why do you want to be an attorney?
I want to be an attorney because, in all areas of law, attorneys have the unique ability to make meaningful impacts on businesses, communities, and people. I am excited about the opportunity to use my skills to solve complex legal issues and see my solution to these issues in a tangible outcome.
What is the hardest part of law school?
The most challenging part of law school portrayed itself in my first year. I had previously gotten my master's degree and thought I would have law school under control. No one informs you that it's basically like learning a new language and rewiring the way your brain thinks. Now that I have that under control, the most challenging part is all the opportunities and activities in law school and learning to manage your time effectively.
What are you most excited to learn during your time here at Ward and Smith?
I am most excited to enhance my understanding of business law and gain exposure to various practice areas. I am also excited to build relationships with fellow interns and attorneys at the firm.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
While I plan to have a successful career as an attorney in five years, I also see myself returning to Eastern North Carolina. I grew up in Williamston and attended East Carolina University in Greenville. I plan to return home and use the skills and experience I have gained at law school to give back to the area that helped me become who I am today.
What's the best advice someone has given you?
While I am an ECU girl, my dad grew up loving NC State, particularly NC State basketball and Jim Valvano. Whenever a rerun of his ESPY
speech came on, my dad would make us watch it. Jimmy V's famous words, "Don't give up. Don't ever give up," play in my head constantly. It's advice that has helped me through all periods of my life. Whenever life knocks me down, I remind myself of these words and stand right back up.
Describe yourself in three words.
Resilient, Passionate, and Positive.
Western or Eastern barbecue? And, why?
Eastern North Carolina barbecue. I am an Eastern North Carolina girl through and through.
If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would the slogan be?
I will steal Jimmy V's words here and say, "Don't give up. Don't ever give up."
The 2025 Summer Associate Program is in full swing at Ward and Smith, running until June 20. Learn more about it here: https://www.wardandsmith.com/careers/law-students.
