Leah Gilbert
Cultivating moments of serendipity is an integral part of the liberal arts. This is a key facet of L&C’s curriculum, where students are given the opportunity and directly encouraged to explore topics across diverse fields and ways of knowing.
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What three words would you use to describe Lewis & Clark?
How do you describe the liberal arts?
When advising first-year students, I ask them to reserve a place in their schedule for serendipity each semester. That is, a course that draws them in and connects to an interest they have that isn’t directly part of their potential major. Sometimes the serendipity class helps a student develop a new skill or see the world in a new way. Sometimes the course helps a student figure out a subject or field that they don’t want to pursue further, which in itself can be very informative. Cultivating moments of serendipity is an integral part of the liberal arts. This is a key facet of L&C’s curriculum, where students are given the opportunity and directly encouraged to explore topics across diverse fields and ways of knowing.
What do you enjoy most about Lewis & Clark students?
I have always been struck by how much L&C students are curious about the world and their overall love of learning.
How does Lewis & Clark prepare students interested in political science to pursue a career and/or advanced studies after graduation?
Our political science department prides itself on preparing students for careers where rigorous analytic thinking and writing is a major component. We also offer students the opportunity to develop and hone their research skills, employing quantitative and qualitative methods. Students are thus prepared for a variety of careers, whether in public health, government, cybersecurity, education, law … the list goes on!
What sets your political science department apart from other small liberal arts colleges?
Over the years we’ve involved a number of students directly in our research, whether it be as research assistants or even as coauthors. We view this work as a collaboration, and it’s among one of the most fulfilling parts of my job.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
The amazing giant sequoia tree next to the outdoor staircase by the music building. I pass this awe-inspiring tree most days and can see it from my office window.
