Lauryn Frederickson

What’s your favorite class? Why?

It’s hard to choose just one favorite class, so I’ll go with two! First, I’ve really enjoyed taking Comparative Rhetoric with Kundai Chrindo. I’m drawn to courses that challenge traditional perspectives and open up space to consider alternative realities, especially in the field of rhetoric and communication studies. Kundai does an amazing job engaging the class with the material and creating space for meaningful discussion.

My second favorite class has been drumset lessons with Brett Paschal, who also directs the percussion ensemble. Since studying with Brett, my skills on the kit have grown tremendously. He brings such great energy to every lesson, and I always leave feeling inspired and motivated to keep growing as a drummer.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I chose to attend Lewis & Clark for several reasons. I wanted a place where I could pursue all of my passions, and Lewis & Clark has made that possible. I’m able to play on the women’s basketball team and be involved in the music program as a percussionist, which has been incredibly fulfilling. I also love living in Portland, and Lewis & Clark’s location offers the perfect mix of a beautiful, close-knit campus and access to everything the city has to offer.

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

As a rhetoric and media studies major, I’ve found that the material we cover applies to so many areas of my life beyond the classroom. Studying rhetoric constantly pushes me to ask questions like why, how, and who, whether I’m analyzing media, navigating conversations, or thinking about the world around me. It’s a major that really strengthens critical thinking skills and opens doors to a wide range of career paths.

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

The entrepreneurship leadership and innovation (ELI) minor is an incredible program at Lewis & Clark. It offers so many opportunities, workshops, and classes that are directly applicable to the real world and the workplace. I really believe it’s a versatile minor that can complement almost any major, helping students build practical skills and a strong entrepreneurial mindset.

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

As a member of the women’s basketball team, I feel deeply connected to the athletics community at Lewis & Clark. It’s a tight-knit and supportive group, and I’ve really enjoyed building friendships with athletes across different teams. I’m also involved in the jazz combos and percussion ensemble, which has introduced me to a completely different social circle within the music program. Being part of both athletics and the arts has allowed me to form meaningful relationships all over campus. I also have great connections with many of my professors, which makes the academic experience feel personal and supportive.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

My advice for incoming students is to branch out, try something new, and put yourself out there. You’ll get out of your college experience what you put into it. Don’t be afraid to talk to your professors, join a new club, or attend events that spark your interest. Some of the best experiences come from stepping outside your comfort zone. College teaches you just as much about life and independence as it does about academics, so embrace all of it.

How did your financial aid package influence your decision to attend Lewis & Clark?

Without financial aid, I would not have been able to attend Lewis & Clark. The financial package made it possible. I also auditioned for the music scholarship for drum set and was thrilled to receive it. This scholarship means a lot to me, as it helps reduce the cost of tuition and allows me to continue taking private lessons to further develop my skills.

Why do you love playing basketball at L&C? How do you balance athletics and academics?

I’ve always dreamed of playing college basketball, and being part of the women’s basketball team at Lewis & Clark has allowed me to grow so much, both as a player and as a person. Competing at the collegiate level is incredibly rewarding, and I love pushing myself to improve every day on the court. One of the best parts of being on a team is the built-in support system. You automatically gain a great group of friends and a strong sense of community. Balancing athletics and academics can be challenging at times, but for me, the key is prioritizing my mental health and managing my time wisely to stay on top of my work.

Did you visit campus before deciding to come to L&C? How did your visit influence your decision to attend?

I initially came on a recruiting visit for basketball, and I immediately fell in love with the campus and the surrounding Portland community.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Portland?

My favorite thing about living in Portland is the food! I am such a foodie, and I love to go out and try new things. The food truck scene in Portland is strong, and I’ve loved exploring all of the different neighborhoods. When I am not playing a basketball game on the weekends, I am usually pulling up to a tea shop to sit down and do work.

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

Although I am not a music major, I am involved in the music program here at L&C. It is so awesome that you can participate in the music program even if you aren’t a major. I have been in the percussion ensemble, wind symphony, jazz combos, and gamelan ensemble. I’ve also performed in a Jazz Quartet (Ladybirds) at a Fridays@5 performance and in another band at the Festival of Scholars and Artists.

What’s one of your best Lewis & Clark memories so far?

My first year, the women’s basketball team played an away game against Whitworth in Spokane. After a long, grueling weekend of travel from Portland throughout Eastern Washington, we played our last game of the weekend and ended up winning on an overtime buzzer-beater. I remember my entire family being there, and it was an amazing game. It was a HUGE team effort, and I will never forget the feeling of winning that game together with my teammates. 

Another of my favorite memories from my first semester at Lewis & Clark was performing in the percussion ensemble for the Fall children’s concert. Tim Putnam, a former college groundskeeper, brought in his massive drum set for us to use, and Brett gave me the opportunity to play a solo on it. It was incredible to sit behind such a huge kit and just let loose. After the performance, all the kids in the audience were invited on stage to try out the percussion instruments. I loved connecting with them and watching their excitement as they explored the sounds. It reminded me that someone once inspired me to start playing when I was their age, and maybe I got to be that person for someone else.

Athletics Entrepreneurship Rhetoric and Media Studies