Elsa Horsted

What’s your favorite class? Why?

Nonfiction Creative Writing with Pauls Toutonghi. Easily one of the most interesting, creative, and exciting classes I’ve taken. Every class was enjoyable, and I grew a lot as a writer.

What do you like or find most interesting about your major?

Most of all, I love the sociology and anthropology (SOAN) professors and the unique assortment of classes offered. I appreciate how the major can apply to almost anything, and although it’s reading-heavy, I’m constantly learning more about myself and others in every class.

What do you like or find most interesting about your minor?

For me, entrepreneurial leadership and innovation (ELI) are the perfect touch of practicality among the theory-heavy focus of SOAN. It keeps me balanced and engaged. The minor is unique with its focus on collaborative, hands-on, and innovative experiences and practice. I have gained many skills that will be invaluable in my future career.

How would you describe sustainability at L&C?

Sustainability at L&C is certainly a school-wide priority, but it’s also a huge value among students. Students at L&C are cognizant and passionate about the environment and making a positive impact.

What’s your involvement with any sustainability initiatives on campus? What’s the best part of your experience?

This last summer, I was a leader of the sustainability-focused New Student Trip, which was awesome. We explored the Columbia River Gorge and learned about various aspects of sustainability.

What should incoming students know about sustainability at L&C?

There are many ways to learn about and practice sustainability at L&C.

Get involved! There are many ways to learn about and practice sustainability at L&C. It’s good to take advantage of what you can. Utilize the summer internship class, ReUse Room, and various connections and events that are available.

How does sustainability prepare students for life after L&C?

Sustainability is the intersection of social, economic, and environmental issues. These three pillars will always be relevant in both school and the real world.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I originally came to L&C to play college soccer. I don’t play anymore, but I have stayed because I love the small class sizes, beautiful campus, and being able to explore the Pacific Northwest.

How do you describe the liberal arts?

The best thing ever! I’ve taken a ton of classes outside my major because of the flexibility to explore other topics. This has made me more well-rounded and knowledgeable. My curiosity for all subjects and lack of commitment to just one is what makes liberal arts the perfect fit.

If you have studied or will study overseas while at Lewis & Clark, how did you choose your program? What did your overseas study add to your L&C experience?

I chose the SE Asia program because it felt like a trip and experience that I couldn’t replicate on my own. There was a huge emphasis on local involvement and experiential learning that our program opened up access to. I’d never been to Asia before and was intrigued by the sustainability focus and opportunity for homestays. The study abroad experience taught me new ways of thinking, communicating, and traveling. Our small L&C cohort became extremely close, and I have been so grateful to return to my last semester on campus with new friends. The trip also completely shaped and inspired my SOAN senior thesis, which is really exciting.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

Embrace the challenge and discomfort! It will feel scary, but it’s a really exciting new chapter in life. Just appreciate everything and try to live in the moment because it goes by so fast. Try not to think too far ahead or stress about the little things.

Tell us about your involvement with the Bates Center. How do you feel that entrepreneurship and leadership integrate into and enhance a liberal arts education?

I completed my ELI minor a while ago, but I just keep going back for more classes and opportunities. I truly feel that I’m getting irreplaceable experiences and skills, and I already see them benefiting me in my future. The sustainability internship class was great for connecting me with a fun summer internship. Other classes have also given me applicable knowledge, like a Salesforce certification. There are so many valuable aspects of entrepreneurship and leadership. I’ve learned to think outside the box and approach things with an open mind, skills that are great for school and life.

Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation Sociology and Anthropology Sustainability

Bates Center Summer Sustainability Internship Profile

Summer 2023

What is your internship this summer, and what are your basic duties?

Feeling like I am contributing to something that is important in terms of sustainability is really rewarding and gratifying.

I am interning for Wonderfil, a start-up that specializes in sustainable refilling stations for liquid and cream products. Wonderfil was co-founded by L&C alum Amelia Eichel and her childhood best friend, and the stations offer a more environmentally friendly way to refill your everyday products. I am on a team with three other students, and our roles as web presence interns include brainstorming and crafting posts for Instagram and TikTok, as well as website posts.

What’s the best part of your internship?

The best part of my internship is getting to collaborate with talented and intelligent people. Also, feeling like I am contributing to something that is important in terms of sustainability is really rewarding and gratifying.

How has the Sustainability Internship course supported you in the process of finding and securing your internship?

Amy Dvorak was so helpful in supporting each student and making sure we were all well-suited to an internship. She helped us prepare for every step of the process, including the applications, interviews, and internship portion.

How do you see this internship leading to a career in your chosen field and aiding in your overall career development?

More professional experience and practice are always helpful, and from participating in this internship, I am realizing my interests in both sustainability and marketing. I have also learned how to collaborate and function within a team more effectively, and having a remote position has increased my self-discipline and responsibility.

How does this internship support your interest in sustainability?

I am passionate and curious about sustainability, both personally and professionally. I envision myself having a job or role regarding sustainability in the future, and my internship with Wonderfil has expanded my knowledge and understanding immensely. Job and career aside, educating myself and others on sustainability and the environment is something that is important to me and inspires and permeates my daily life as well.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your experience?

More than just being a great experience and beneficial for my own personal growth, both the class and internship were extremely enjoyable. It was especially awesome to have been hired by an L&C alum and see firsthand the potential of what Lewis & Clark students can do postgrad, and see what opportunities are possible once college is done.