Nina Low

What’s your favorite class? Why?


My favorite class so far has been Devised Theatre with Rebecca Lingafelter. Though it’s a required course for theatre majors, it’s been the most fun I’ve ever had in a theatre class, and that’s saying something, since theatre classes are usually enthusiastic by nature. Beyond the games and creativity, the class pushed me to explore a new side of performance art, helping me grow both as an artist and a collaborator. It also introduced me to inspiring figures like Pina Bausch, deepening my appreciation for theatre’s history.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?


Like many students, I was drawn to Lewis & Clark by its stunning campus, tight-knit community, and small class sizes. I was deciding between a few California State Universities and University of California (UC) schools, but L&C stood out for its welcoming atmosphere. Of course, the financial aid package made it an even clearer choice.

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

Theatre: There’s never a dull moment in the theatre department. For my performance concentration focus, I love how much hands-on creation and experimentation we get to do. Beyond acting, classes like Playing at the Border have let me engage with the community, teaching theatre and art to kids through the Immigrant & Refugee Community Organization (IRCO). Other classes, such as Theatre Laboratory (T-Lab), provide opportunities to learn backstage skills. The program doesn’t box you into one role; it encourages growth in every aspect of theatre.

Sociology and anthropology (SOAN): Like most SOAN majors, I love hearing people’s stories and understanding their perspectives. The major has given me a lens to explore diverse human experiences in ways I never expected. I came to L&C as an intended biochemistry major, but SOAN’s engaging coursework, including the heavy reading, has kept me curious and invested.

Tell us about your support systems and social outlets on campus: people, activities, clubs, res halls, etc.

L&C stood out for its welcoming atmosphere.

Lewis & Clark’s welcoming community has made it easy to find my people. This semester, my study groups have been a huge support, both academically and socially. I’m also close to my three roommates. We do family dinners, explore Portland together, and just hang out. And, of course, the theatre department has been a second home, full of inspiring friends and collaborators.

If you have studied or will study overseas while at Lewis & Clark, how did you choose your program?


In fall ’25, I’ll be studying abroad on the New York City: Fine Arts program! As a theatre major, the chance to immerse myself in NYC’s creative scene while interning in my (hopefully) future field was too good to pass up. Plus, getting to learn from incredible faculty makes it even more exciting.

What advice do you have for incoming students?


Some of my closest friendships started with unexpected conversations in class, so don’t be afraid to reach out to peers! You never know who you’ll click with.

How are you involved in the arts at L&C?


Art has always been a huge part of my life, and at L&C, that hasn’t changed. As a theatre major, I basically live in Fir Acres Theatre, where I spend 90% of my days creating, rehearsing, and collaborating. I also sing with the music department, contribute to the Platteau, and make visual art in my free time.

How do you describe the liberal arts?

I was lucky enough to experience a liberal arts-style education in high school, and what stands out most is how it teaches you to question; how to think critically, explore broadly, and connect ideas across disciplines. They shape you into a well-rounded learner who doesn’t just absorb information but examines it. More than anything, the liberal arts teach you how to learn—a skill I believe is without parallel.

Sociology and Anthropology Theatre