Grace Uwagbae, senior

From: Portland, Oregon

Exploring: Political science

Being where the action is: A lot of people move off campus after their first two years, but I chose to stay. There’s so much going on here all the time, from lectures and symposia to events like powwows and luaus. Because I live right here, it’s easier to be spontaneous.

Culture on campus: A Greek system wouldn’t fit here; our community is more open than that. I’m involved in Gente Latina Unida, for example, even though I’m not Latina. And my friends in the Black Student Union aren’t only African American, they’re also white, Japanese, and Chinese. That’s what’s cool about Lewis & Clark, you don’t have to be defined by any one thing. Our student groups are more about building awareness, engaging in discussions, sharing cultures, and shattering stereotypes.

Culture off campus: As if there’s not enough to do on campus, a College shuttle— the Pioneer Express—makes regular trips to downtown Portland. It drops you off in Fareless Square, where you can ride on the bus, streetcar, or light rail for free. Whether you want to go to a restaurant, concert, museum, political protest, the Saturday Market, or the farmer’s market, it’s all easily accessible in the city center.

Venturing further: My political science education at Lewis & Clark has given me a strong foundation for graduate school, and my semester in Washington, D.C., where I interned for an Oregon congressman, confirmed my love for politics. When I answered calls and questions from constituents, I learned just how important your voice, your vote, your say really is.

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