PhD Candidate in Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles
What three words would you use to describe L&C?
Welcoming, Mellow, Home
Life After L&C
September 2025 Rogers Science Research Alumni Update
What research project did you work on?
During the Rogers summer program, I worked with Prof. Louis Kuo, who specializes in organometallic chemistry. I synthesized Molybdenum-based catalysts and studied sulfide oxidation reactions, which culminated in a senior thesis project the following academic year.
Why did you decide to sign up for the program?
Jordan with Professor Kuo.I signed up for the Rogers program because I wanted to learn more about research. I had really enjoyed all of my chemistry courses, especially Organic Chemistry with Prof. Kuo, and I wanted to know how one could apply those “textbook” concepts. It was Prof. Kuo, and others, including Prof. Anne Bentley, who had encouraged me to think about conducting research. I was very fortunate to participate in the Rogers program shortly thereafter! Spending the summer in Portland, Oregon, did not sound half bad either.
What’s a favorite memory from the experience?
Some of my favorite memories involve the community building and camaraderie. What makes the Rogers program, and Lewis & Clark, special is the people. Whether it was group lunches, or discussing science in lab, we always had a good time. I still keep in touch with many of my cohort mates today (6+ years later)!
What role did faculty mentorship play during your time in the program?
The mentorship I received from Prof. Kuo, Prof. Bentley, Profs. Iva Stavrov and Paul Allen from the math department, and many more, was absolutely critical to my early development as a scholar. They constantly ensured that I was challenged with my coursework, and as mentioned previously, encouraged me to pursue research in the Rogers program and ultimately higher education. Most importantly, my mentors provided me with unwavering support.
What specific skills or knowledge did you gain during the program that have been especially valuable in your post-L&C life?
The most important skills that I learned from the Rogers program were to be able to think independently and to solve problems.
How did the experience shape your thinking about your future career plans?
I fell in love with the idea of research after participating in the Rogers program, which motivated me to pursue graduate school. I now find myself applying to pharmaceutical research positions, where I will help discover new medicines!
What advice would you give to students considering the summer science research program in the future?
My advice to students considering summer research would be to get in touch with your professors and express interest ahead of time! Keep an open mind about the type of research you would like to do, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!
After graduating from L&C, I moved to Los Angeles. I am attending UCLA to obtain my PhD in chemistry!
How did Lewis & Clark prepare you for graduate school?
So many people at L&C have helped me get to where I am now. My professors have given me the tools and the foundation to succeed in grad school and beyond. My baseball coaches have taught me how to deal with adversity and to always put my best effort forward. My friends have taught me the importance of living life to the fullest and to appreciate the little things.
What would you say is the most important thing you learned at Lewis & Clark?
The most important thing I learned at L&C is perspective. I learned to think about problems and communicate with others through a different lens.
How do you stay connected to Lewis & Clark as an alum?
I enjoy following L&C sports and attending the baseball alumni weekend!
Have you been to Alumni Weekend or other programming, like Homecoming, etc.? What did you enjoy about the event(s)?
I have not yet had the opportunity to attend some of the other alumni programming, but I hope to go to more events in the future.
Life at L&C
What’s your favorite class? How has it expanded your knowledge?
My favorite class was organic chemistry with Louis Kuo and Casey Jones. There is an inherent beauty in understanding how different molecules behave and come together to synthesize new molecules. My experience in organic chemistry at Lewis and Clark has really allowed me to appreciate this beauty.
Who is your mentor on campus? Why do you consider this person your mentor?
I would consider Professor Kuo to be my mentor because he is the first professor on campus that I met, and he encouraged me to pursue a chemistry major. However, I have to acknowledge the professors in the math and chemistry departments, all of whom have been a tremendous help in my academic career so far.
What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?
I wanted to come to Lewis in Clark to continue to play the sport I love. When I saw the incredible campus and interacted with some of the faculty, choosing Lewis & Clark was a no-brainer.
Why do you choose to play baseball at a DIII school? How do you balance athletics and academics?
A DIII school was the best option for me because I knew that my coaches would allow me to prioritize academics. In order to help me balance school and baseball, I do my best to plan out when and where I will do homework so that I can stay ahead of my schedule. There are weeks which are particularly stressful, so I remind myself to breathe and take it one day at a time.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
Make mistakes, talk in class, respect your peers and professors, and most importantly, have fun!
