Meet 2026 Summer Associate Jessica Cody

Ward and Smith’s 2026 Summer Associate Program is underway. This year, seven law students are putting their skills to work across each of our offices. From legal research to client service, they’re building the foundation for lasting careers in law. Get to know each of them in our “Meet the Summer Associate” series.

Introducing Jesscia Cody:

Hometown: Fayetteville, NC

School: North Carolina Central University School of Law, 2L

Would you like to share something about your family?
I come from a military family. My parents have a combined total of over 35 years of service in the U.S. Army.

What do you like to do in your downtime when you’re not studying?
In my free time I like to shop or try a new matcha place.

What is your favorite movie?
My favorite movie is Cars.

What is your favorite book?
My favorite book is All About Love by Bell Hooks.

What is your favorite food?
My favorite food is pho from Anise Pho or a kale salad from Pizzeria Toro in Durham, NC.

Where is your favorite vacation spot?
Anywhere by a beach, the hotter the better!

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
If I could live anywhere in the world for a year, I would live in Greece.

If you knew you could try anything and not fail, what dream would you pursue?
I would want to be a commentator on First Take.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
I have a really bad sweet tooth — I always have some candy, just ask!

Why do you want to be an attorney?
Growing up, my sister had a speech impediment, and she wouldn’t talk to anyone but me. I would advocate for her and often speak up for her. She was my first “client.” I want to be an attorney for the same reason — I want to help others obtain access and protect their dreams for themselves and their families.

What sparked your interest in law?
I am an analytical person who enjoys problem-solving. But, even more than problem-solving, I enjoy people. The law sits squarely at this intersection. It is where real problems are solved to create actual change in people’s lives.

What is the hardest part of law school?
The hardest part of law school is knowing when to pace myself. I am an extremely hard worker, and I am always chasing excellence. Sometimes it can be hard to know when to rest so that I can keep going.

What are you most excited to learn during your time here at Ward and Smith?
I am most excited to learn the “Ward and Smith Way.” Specifically, I am excited to learn what it means to practice in our North Carolina communities at a high level while still maintaining warm relationships.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself at a firm in North Carolina, specializing in my practice area. Personally, I hope to be starting a family, continuing to serve my community, and maybe looking to become an adjunct professor at one of the nearby law schools.

What’s the best advice someone has given you?
The best advice someone has given me is to not put off for tomorrow what can be done today.

Describe yourself in three words.
Diligent, empathetic, and strategic.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?
If I were famous, I would be famous for something to do with politics — maybe a successful political fixer?

Western or Eastern barbecue? And, why?
I prefer Eastern barbecue. My mom’s family is from Texas, so I grew up eating TX BBQ. Western NC seems like a poor imitation, but Eastern BBQ is completely different, and that is what I like about it.

If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would the slogan be?
Don’t talk about doing, just do!