Biochemistry and philosophy originally interested rising 2L Bryce Ferguson, who graduated from Utah State University and began conducting research on anti-CRISPR proteins: naturally occurring molecules that can disable gene-editing tools like CRISPR.“While I enjoyed the analytical challenges of science and exploring big-picture questions in philosophy, I realized I was more drawn to advising people and helping them make strategic decisions,” he recalls. “I chose law school to combine my technical background with practical problem-solving in a client-focused setting.”
The S.J. Quinney College of Law made the cut because of its strong sense of community and deep connections to the local legal market, among other factors, Ferguson recalls.
“I was also drawn to the opportunity to explore different areas of law while receiving strong mentorship and practical training. And of course, Utah Law’s proximity to the mountains and easy access to outdoor activities made it an especially appealing place to study,” he says.
However, the best part about the College of Law is the small class sizes.
“This creates a tight-knit and collaborative environment where students and professors truly want each other to succeed. I appreciate that I can explore a variety of different interests without losing a sense of balance or feeling pigeonholed into a specific practice area,” Ferguson explains.
He made it a priority to gain international experience in the business and legal space during his 1L summer—and this goal took him to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to work at BCCM, an international legal and consulting firm.
“During my time at BCCM, I worked on cross-border investment, corporate structuring, and regulatory compliance research for clients expanding into ASEAN markets,” Ferguson says. “It was an invaluable experience that deepened my interest in transactional and regulatory work and gave me firsthand insight into how law supports global business growth.”
Ferguson is most proud of taking an unconventional path during his first summer in law school, which allowed him to gain firsthand knowledge of new legal systems and cultures.
“This experience broadened my perspective on how law operates globally and furthered my commitment to building a career that bridges legal and business needs across borders,” he says.
Looking back on his first year, Ferguson says he enjoyed his constitutional law class because it helped him understand how legal principles underpin governance in the U.S.
“The class challenged me to think critically about the intersection of law, policy, and public life. Studying in Asia afterward made the experience even more meaningful, as it gave me the opportunity to reflect on how different constitutional and regulatory frameworks can shape societies around the world,” he says.
Though Ferguson has two years of law school ahead, he intends to build a career in transactional law, interested mainly in corporate structuring, tax, and estate planning.
“My goal is to help clients navigate complex legal and regulatory landscapes—both domestically and internationally—so they can focus on growing their businesses, planning for the future, and achieving their long-term goals with confidence,” he says. “Most importantly, I’m motivated by a desire to support people and organizations in making thoughtful, informed decisions that strengthen their futures and the communities around them.”
A career in transactional law also aligns with Ferguson’s passions for helping clients feel confident and secure when they face legal and business challenges.
“I enjoy translating complicated legal concepts into clear, practical strategies that allow people and organizations to make informed decisions and move forward with peace of mind,” he says. “Supporting others in this way is what I find most meaningful about the practice of law.”