Joy Pajarla

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I chose L&C because I fell in love with the campus as soon as I set foot on it. I was also drawn to the liberal arts curriculum and the creative and lively atmosphere of Portland.

What have you been doing since graduation?

I am currently a fourth-year physics PhD candidate specializing in physical and engineering biology at Yale. My dissertation research focuses on developing computational models and theoretical frameworks to understand cardiac-specific protein dynamics. I have also had the immense privilege and pleasure of blending my passion for both the humanities and the sciences through experiences such as curating an exhibit with the Yale Peabody museum and interning with the Yale Ancient Pharmacology Program.

How did Lewis & Clark prepare you for your PhD program at Yale?

I am extremely grateful to have had wonderfully supportive and inspiring mentors across multiple departments. Professors Tamily Weissman-Unni, Michael Broide, Joel Martinez, and Andrew Funk, among others, played a pivotal role in shaping my critical-thinking skills, teaching me how to advocate for myself in both academic and non-academic spaces, and encouraging me to pursue and combine my diverse interests, no matter the challenges. Their support has been invaluable to me through my college years and beyond.

What would you say is the most important thing you learned at Lewis & Clark?

I learned to be a resourceful, adaptable, and interdisciplinary thinker and communicator. Beyond academics, these skills have shaped me into an empathetic and collaborative problem-solver within my community.

Why did you major in physics?

I majored in physics because I am fascinated by the patterns and synergies found in natural phenomena. I wanted to learn the language of these dynamics and how it is elegantly encoded in the world around us.

Why did you minor in philosophy?

I minored in philosophy because I am fascinated by the extensiveness, diversity, and rich historical evolution of critical thought. Physics allowed me to model the physical conditions of our world, while philosophy helped me understand the cultural and personal motivations and biases that drive certain types of scientific progress.

How do you stay connected to Lewis & Clark as an alum?

Whenever I visit Portland, I try to stop by the campus and say hello to my professors. I’ve also made amazing friends at L&C, including fellow alums and current Yale PhD students Megan Ayers and Talia Lichtenberg, with whom I’ve formed even stronger connections since graduating.

Physics Philosophy