Welcome, New Students!
As the new academic year approaches, we asked incoming first-year and transfer students to share why they chose Lewis & Clark.
Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, and each one helps make our community unique. As the school year is about to begin, we asked four incoming students to tell us their stories and why they chose Lewis & Clark.
Jared Brinen-Stout (he/him)
Hometown: Mill Valley, California
Academic Interests: Psychology and Studio Art/Photography
What three words would you use to describe Lewis & Clark?
Unique, Progressive, Forward-Thinking
Why did you choose Lewis & Clark?
I chose Lewis & Clark for three main reasons:
- The school’s commitment to student well-being
- Class sizes that offer opportunities to interact with faculty
- The amazing Pacific Northwest location, with its great nature, its great weather (I like rain), and its environment of acceptance
What sets Lewis & Clark apart from other schools?
Lewis & Clark is like a hidden gem. The school fosters high standards of academics, original research, social awareness, environmental consciousness, and sustainability. These core missions attract a diverse student body. The individuals drawn to Lewis & Clark embody a wide range of ideals and values—with the commonality of wanting to be part of the school because they believe in the messages it supports.
Devon Hall (he/him)
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Academic Interests: Psychology, Photography, Media Studies
What three words would you use to describe Lewis & Clark?
Unique, Expressive, Open-Minded
Why did you choose Lewis & Clark?
I chose Lewis & Clark because of its serene campus, its location, and its ideology around having a balanced education.
What sets Lewis & Clark apart from other schools?
Lewis & Clark has so much personality that’s unlike any other school. I feel so intrigued by all the clubs and activities present.
Dylan Hunter (she/her)
Hometown: Bozeman, Montana
Academic Interests: Psychology and Theatre
What three words would you use to describe Lewis & Clark?
Full of Opportunity
Why did you choose Lewis & Clark?
When I was looking for schools, right away I was enraptured by the beauty of campus and the surrounding areas of Oregon. When I was able to visit the college and see how vibrant the surrounding city life was—and especially the gorgeous looming trees all around—I was sold. I had already researched L&C’s expansive psychology and theatre programs, which I knew I was interested in pursuing. During the campus tours, I also heard about the vastness of academic opportunities, and seeing as I had a few different academic interests, it seemed only fit to set my sights on L&C.
What sets Lewis & Clark apart from other schools?
Apart from the impressive scenery that I’ve already mentioned, the community surrounding the college is so tight-knit and offers a really good foundation to start from. The LLC (Living Learning Community), which is designed specifically to encourage community ties and to give you a place of already having many things in common with your peers, is an outstanding way to make sure you’ll find a set of individuals that you’ll likely be friends with for at least the rest of your college experience.
Kat Pendergrass (she/they)
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Academic Interests: Sociology and Ecology
What three words would you use to describe Lewis & Clark?
Cozy, Charming, Eclectic
Why did you choose Lewis & Clark?
The moment I set foot on campus, I knew it was home. The connections I made with the current students were instantaneous, and I felt a desire to move throughout the world in the way they did—confidently and kindly.
What sets Lewis & Clark apart from other schools?
Lewis & Clark is a rare combination of a friendly environment and an academically serious community. The administration not only values student engagement, representation, and equity, but also actively walks the talk.
More Stories
Rankings
Niche Names L&C One of Oregon’s ‘Best Liberal Arts Colleges’
According to the 2025 Niche college rankings, Lewis & Clark is one of the best liberal arts colleges in Oregon as well as one of the state’s top performers in academics, student life, English, and history.
Teacher Readiness
A New Chapter in Social Studies Education
Oregon’s 2024 Social Studies Standards introduce fresh perspectives and a more inclusive curriculum. Clinical Assistant Professor Cari Zall explains the new standards and how Lewis & Clark’s Graduate School of Education and Counseling is preparing future educators to work with these guidelines.
Green Leadership
27th Annual Environmental Studies Symposium Focuses on Green Innovation in China and the U.S.
This year’s ENVX Symposium, Green Innovation in China and the U.S.: Creating Climate Solutions, will be held from September 30 to October 4. The symposium features two keynote speakers in addition to a movie screening, a panel on electric vehicles, and a closing reception. All events are free and open to the public.
Thought Leadership
A Focus on Student Resilience at ChronFest
President Robin Holmes-Sullivan was a featured speaker at The Chronicle of Higher Education’s virtual conference.