The environment at Lewis & Clark encourages student-athletes to achieve their full potential both in and out of the classroom. Small class sizes, freedom to pursue more than one sport, and support for extracurricular and cocurricular activities are our hallmarks.
With the fall sports season just starting to heat up, we asked seven seniors and recent graduates to offer words of wisdom to the incoming class of Pioneer student-athletes. Here’s what they had to say.
Glenna Gee-Taylor ’17
Hometown: Louisville, Colorado Major: History Sport: Tennis
Competing at the Division III level gives you the true experience of being a student-athlete. At Division I schools, there’s an intense focus on just the “athlete” part—and I wanted more from my college experience. Lewis & Clark has allowed me to engage in all the things I’m passionate about, and that is something that has huge value for me. Plus, there’s still a fantastic level of competition and camaraderie.
In my experience, balancing athletics and the classroom is more of a “feel” thing than an exact science. You have to know what works for you and what will give you the best chance to succeed. For me, that’s meant using what free time I have to get ahead so that I’m not overwhelmed when there’s a busy patch.
Playing at the Division III level has been a truly special experience. I’ve been able to put academics first and still play volleyball at a high level. Being a student-athlete has also helped me to prepare for life after college. It’s taught me how to be a good team player and leader, and really helped me learn to manage my time effectively.
Joe Iliscupidez ’16
Hometown: Fontana, California Major: Psychology Sport: Football
It goes by fast, so cherish every moment lifting and running, the late nights doing homework and studying for a test, the team meetings and the film study. You don’t get that back again once it is gone. Enjoy the process. Enjoy the grind. Buy into what it means to be a part of the ‘Pio Family.’
Frances Swanson ’17
Hometown: San Rafael, California Major: Environmental Studies Sport: Cross Country, Track and Field
Running on the cross country and track teams has actually helped my academic performance. Our team culture prioritizes academics, and I’m inspired by seeing my teammates excel both in school and on the track. Participating in athletics also gives me an outlet to release my energy and goof off with my friends on the team. That helps me focus on my classwork when it’s time to study in the library.
I couldn’t imagine my college experience without soccer. Having a support system of teammates has been an extremely important part of my success in every aspect of campus life. I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to participate in sports throughout my time as an undergraduate, and can’t recommend Division III athletics strongly enough.
Nick Lockwood ’17
Hometown: Irvine, California Major: Rhetoric & Media Studies Sport: Baseball
As student-athletes we have opportunities to study abroad, volunteer in our communities, work with professors on original research, and venture into the entrepreneurial world. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, take a risk, and get involved as early as possible!
