Aron Phillips, senior

From: Shelburne, Vermont

Exploring: International Affairs

No boundaries: I don’t see any boundaries in the world. I’m majoring in international affairs, but that doesn’t mean I can’t go on an arts program in New York, take classes in astronomy and world music, or even get an internship with a magazine that isn’t hiring. At Lewis & Clark, there’s just so much opportunity. It’s the ideal academic environment.

No fear: The highlight of my semester in New York was my time at Dime magazine. I loved covering sports for the Pioneer Log, so I decided to pursue an internship in sports writing. I called all of the magazines, whether they posted openings or not. Dime, a basketball lifestyle magazine, called back. They weren’t looking for help, but I talked them into an interview, and ultimately into a job. I interviewed famous basketball players and rappers, went to games, and wrote articles for a magazine with wide distribution. It was truly unbelievable.

No limits: Eventually, I want to teach high school and coach basketball. The teachers who’ve meant the most to me are the ones who had life experiences first: the ones who had gone out and lived and worked in the world. My philosophy is, go for it. If it interests you, seek it out. If it’s not there, create it yourself—especially while you’re at Lewis & Clark. There’s no reason not to take advantage of every available opportunity. I’ve worked closely with professors, learned about U.S. foreign policy and the international political economy, hung out with students from all over the world, and explored my wide-ranging interests.

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