Zoë Smith
The faculty and small class sizes were an important factor in my college decision, and I have loved being at a school where I can really connect with professors and my classmates.
Pronouns
Degree and Class Year
Hometown
Major
Minor
What three words would you use to describe L&C?
What’s your favorite class? Why?
My favorite class in my time at L&C has definitely been Feminist Theory with Kim Brodkin. The course readings were captivating, and class discussions and assignments allowed my classmates and I to engage in these vital and fascinating conversations with nuance and respect. I always say this class broke my brain and rebuilt it, and I continue to grapple with the ideas and discourse of this class a year later.
What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?
I was drawn in by the insanely gorgeous, verdant campus. I also felt called by the queer community at Lewis & Clark and in Portland; I am endlessly heartened and inspired by the myriad of identities and expressions I see around me. The faculty and small class sizes were an important factor in my college decision, and I have loved being at a school where I can really connect with professors and my classmates.
What do you like or find most interesting about your major?
I have enjoyed the various perspectives I have gained from psychology classes and professors. Being a psychology major has allowed me a larger critical understanding of our society and the people within it. I also love how I have been able to take classes in a wide variety of fields outside my major. These interdisciplinary courses have provided me with information and perspectives that have deepened my understanding of psychology and the world overall.
What do you like or find most interesting about your minor?
I feel like my gender studies minor has provided me with new perspectives through which to view myself and the world around me, and has improved my skills in critical analysis and writing. I have wonderful connections with gender studies faculty, and the wisdom they have imparted on me has deepened my curiosity about gender, identity, history, and politics.
Tell us about your support systems and social outlets on campus: people, activities, clubs, res halls, etc.
I am lucky to have made wonderful friends throughout my time at Lewis & Clark. I find the L&C student body to be warm, exciting, and welcoming. My friends have made me feel supported and inspired, and I treasure the intellectual stimulation and emotional intelligence I have gained from our conversations. I am incredibly grateful for the connections I have made here.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
I truly believe that you get out of your college experience what you put into it. Make sure to do your research on clubs, organizations, academic programs, on-campus jobs, research opportunities, and campus support systems to find what interests you. Many of these opportunities are funded by your tuition dollars and are exclusive to L&C students, so make sure to use your resources! Your NSO/ NST leaders will be a great resource to help you get connected. That being said, prioritize finding a balance between getting involved and taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and socially. Remember that your freshman year does not determine your entire college experience, and it is completely normal to take time to adjust.
Tell us about the upcoming Gender Studies Symposium. What has your experience as a cochair been like? How does this event complement your academic experience?
Being a Gender Studies Symposium cochair has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had at Lewis & Clark. It has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the field of gender studies and play a role in furthering important conversations. I am grateful for and inspired by the gender studies community at Lewis & Clark, and I love being able to encourage my fellow students to delve into their academic interests and provide an environment for them to share vital ideas and perspectives. I would like to shout out my incredible cochairs and our wonderful faculty advisor Kim Brodkin, who have provided a nurturing and inspiring environment through which to develop our ideas. I feel like my time as a cochair has facilitated my shift from a gender studies student to scholar, and I will always look back on this experience with gratitude and fondness.
