Joelle Hakoum

My high school was very large so I wanted to try smaller classes where there is more focus on students’ needs and understanding.

Joelle Hakoum '20

Pronouns

she/her

Degree and Class Year

BA ’20

Hometown

Homs, Syria

Major

Psychology

Extracurriculars

International Students of Lewis & Clark (ISLC), TCK Club, tutor for Arabic and Chemistry, volunteering

What three words would you use to describe L&C?

Engaging, Collaborative, Holistic

What’s your favorite class? How has it expanded your knowledge?

Organic Chemistry with Louis Kuo and Casey Jones. I have a great passion for chemistry and its real-world applications. However, organic chemistry challenged my spatial and problem-solving skills. It helped me develop more ways to relate the material in the course to applications in our everyday life.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

Lewis & Clark College’s class sizes were appealing to me. My high school was very large so I wanted to try smaller classes where there is more focus on students’ needs and understanding.

Tell me about your experience working in the in both the admissions office and international students and scholars.

I have enjoyed working with everyone at ISS while I was on the International Students of Lewis & Clark (ISLC) board. Also, I am looking forward to doing more work with ISS in the upcoming school years. It was quite nice learning how to collaborate and work with other departments and clubs on campus to facilitate events. I had the wonderful pleasure of learning more about international students and the best ways to bridge communication between domestic and international students at LC.

“It has helped me develop ways to better understand and navigate various identities.”
What’s your favorite spot on campus?

The Watzek Library is one of my favorite spots on campus. It has various views and places to focus and get work done.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Portland?

The exquisite green nature everywhere which I find quite relaxing and therapeutic.

How do you manage stress?

I manage stress by listening to music and dancing.

Where do you find community on campus?

I found community within ISLC student government, where I found an opportunity to facilitate communication across many cultures. It gave me the chance to expand my knowledge about many cultures and reinforce diversity within the LC community.

How has Lewis & Clark has changed you?

Lewis & Clark College has given me exposure to different identities and personalities that I was not exposed to while I was growing up. It has helped me develop ways to better understand and navigate various identities.