Institution: Portland State University
Title: Special Gifts Officer
1. What drew you to L&C?
To be honest, I never knew of L&C until my mentor at Miami University said she knew of a new program that would be a strong fit for me, and the next thing I knew, I was sitting down with [Professor] Anna Gonzalez, [Assistant Dean] Charlie Ahlquist and [Executive Assistant] Tamara Ko. My girlfriend was going to attend the law school, and so I figured I should go and expand on my passion for higher education and student affairs and get an education along the way. Additionally, it was having the chance to help create the curriculum along the way, being a part of the first cohort and having the opportunity for a two-year graduate assistantship.
2. Most memorable moment from your classroom so far?
The most memorable moment was learning how to master the Pivot Table. Learning how to master the Pivot Table from Dr. Figueora helped me realize its importance. I work with Pivot Tables on a daily basis and teach my colleagues how to use them.
3. How do you plan on using what you are learning in the SAA Program?
I plan on applying the knowledge I have gained in this program to direct my thoughts and ideas. As a result of this program I have become a more critical thinker asking more intellectual questions that lead to stimulating conversation topics. This program has also allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself to think about social issues in the world and higher education differently.
4.What is the most important thing you learned at Lewis & Clark that you are already putting into practice outside of the classroom?
One of the most important factors of success that I have learned and taken with me is the ability to ask questions and not settle for the status quo.
5.Has anything changed since you began?
I secured a full time position at a higher education institution. I find that I have developed a stronger interest of books on leadership, negotiations, persuasion, and Gloria Anzaldua books. Books as such remind me of where I came from, who I am, and help me distinguish the invisible borders that affect us as a cultural society.
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“As a result of this program I have become a more critical thinker, asking more intellectual questions that lead to stimulating conversation topics. This program has also allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself to think about social issues in the world and higher education differently.”