Sonya K. Boun, '04

Who in your life has been instrumental to your success?

Professor Ann C. McGinley is an incredible mentor, and steered me toward the practice of employment law, which was the perfect fit. I credit her with challenging me, and allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the practice from the plaintiff’s perspective, even though I have always gravitated toward defense work and representing employers (sorry, Ann!).

What brought you to Las Vegas?

Prior to law school, I spent 15 years in the restaurant industry. I came to Las Vegas to work for some of the most well-known chefs at the time, Emeril Lagasse and Wolfgang Puck, but knew I would eventually end up going to law school. I was lucky that such an amazing law school just happened to be available to me locally when I was ready to take the leap. 
 
What do you wish you would have learned at the beginning of your career?

One thing I wish every new attorney would do is ask more questions when they start practicing. You have spent 3-4 intense years learning to think like a lawyer, but learning how to practice as a lawyer is a completely different ballgame. You should never be afraid to ask questions, including leaning on your assistants and paralegals to show you how things “really get done.” Treat your staff like gold, and they will support you through thick and thin!
 
Do you have certain memories about law school that you want to remember? 

There are so many great memories of my time at Boyd. In particular, I was proud of my time as Editor in Chief of the Nevada Law Journal, and also fondly remember the day BSOL achieved full accreditation. That was a great day for us all!