Victor Cho
During my campus visit, I was struck by Oregon’s natural beauty—the rivers, forests, and mountains. It felt like a place where I could always fish, hunt, and just enjoy life. I figured, why not give it a try?
Degree and Class Year
Hometown
Major
Extracurriculars
What three words would you use to describe L&C?
What’s your favorite class? Why?
Philosophy – Professor Philip Barron: “I think, therefore I am.” Descartes’ words remind us that the act of thinking is what defines us as human. As someone who considers himself both a philosopher and a man of nature, I’ve taken a different path in learning, one that challenges conventional thinking and embraces independence. I live differently than most people, intentionally staying away from what society labels as “normal” or “standard.” This class helped me better articulate what I believe in and gave me the confidence to think critically, even when it goes against the grain. As Nietzsche once said, “He who has a reason to live can bear almost any how.” Philosophy gave me both a “why” and the tools to keep questioning.
Macroeconomics – Professor Eric Tymoigne: Professor Tymoigne approaches economics with both depth and practicality. He brings a broad, clear-eyed perspective on macroeconomic systems and knows exactly when to question the norm. Through his class, I not only gained a solid foundation in the basics of economics but also a deeper understanding of how large-scale decisions affect people on a day-to-day basis. Outside of class, I often found myself discussing current economic concerns with him, and he was always open to those conversations. Macroeconomics taught me how to look at national economies from a structural point of view, understanding trends, policies, and consequences on a global scale.
Globalization Economics – Professor Anna Miromanova: This class showed me the reality of how interconnected and unequal the global economy can be. I learned that if people around the world worked together, we could address major economic issues like famine, environmental damage, and lack of access to healthcare. It was eye-opening to learn how economic systems contribute to inequality: how people die because of the price of medicine, or how some regions suffer food shortages while others have an overabundance. Conversations with classmates about these issues were meaningful and thought-provoking. I’ve never been someone who chases money or status, instead, I want to dedicate myself to helping others, and this class helped shape my understanding of what that could look like through economics.
What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?
I originally came to Lewis & Clark to play football as a kicker. During my campus visit, I was struck by Oregon’s natural beauty—the rivers, forests, and mountains. It felt like a place where I could always fish, hunt, and just enjoy life. It was a completely different world from Texas, with a new culture and perspective. I figured, why not give it a try? It couldn’t be that bad. Turns out, it’s been a big adjustment, but I’ve grown a lot, and at least my golf game has improved.
What do you like or find most interesting about your major?
Economics fascinates me because it’s connected to almost everything we do. From turning on the lights in the morning to buying groceries or driving to work, it all ties back to economics. It has the power to shape our lives for better or worse. I’ve always dreamed of helping create a more peaceful and fair world, and I believe economic understanding can play a big role in making that possible.
Tell us about your support systems and social outlets on campus: people, activities,
clubs, res halls, etc.
When I played football, my teammates had my six and I had theirs. That brotherhood was a big part of my support system, along with the athletic department, which always had our backs. After returning from the military, the Bates Center at L&C became another strong support for me. Chrys Hutchings and Catarina Hunter played a huge role in helping me transition. The 2025 Winterim program was a major turning point in my life. After serving, I felt lost, unsure of what to do or where to go. Joining Winterim helped me step away from the chaos of farm life and gave me new skills in networking, critical thinking, and socializing. It helped me rediscover myself. After that experience, I felt like a salmon that had finally made it from the creek out into the Pacific Ocean, seeing the bigger world with a new perspective and realizing how much more is out there.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
Be a cage-free human. A lot of people get caught up chasing things that don’t really matter and forget to appreciate the basics in life, trees, water, sun, good people, a quiet moment, etc. Once you start noticing and valuing the little things, life becomes a lot more meaningful and enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to live differently, slow down, and define happiness on your own terms.
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?
As mentioned above, the Bates Center is a great program that truly helps set students up for life after college, and I highly recommend it. I honestly wish I had known about it earlier. With a liberal arts education, there’s often uncertainty about what comes after graduation, but this program gives you a chance to explore and get a glimpse of what’s out there. It connects leadership and entrepreneurship in a way that feels practical and inspiring.
What’s one of the best spots on campus?
The football locker room. What happens in there stays in there. It’s kind of like when your girl tells you something personal and says, “don’t tell anyone.” You just know it’s sacred. The locker room is that kind of space: full of trust, chaos, and brotherhood. It’s where jokes fly, anger comes out, and bonds are built. No cameras, no filters (literally), just wild animal energy.
How has Lewis & Clark changed you?
I embrace the danger and am open to the public.
What’s the experience like as a Third Culture Kid (TCK)?
I’ve done more “white people stuff” than most white people, i.e., ranching, hunting, football, backyard BBQs, you name it. But I’ve also carried the mindset, values, and cultural awareness that comes from having roots in two different worlds. Being a TCK makes you adaptable (survivable). You learn how to read the room, code-switch, and carry pride in not fitting neatly into one box. It’s made me who I am, a little bit (more) country, a little bit Korean, and 100% Victor Cho.
