Sebastian DePrez

What’s your favorite class? Why?

My favorite class is Technology of the Future with Professor Kellar Autumn. The class was an intimate environment that revolved around the innovation process. Throughout a series of fun and engaging projects where you and your team get to pitch innovative ideas to the rest of the class, I gained unparalleled experience in teamwork, research and development, and presenting. Beyond the presentations, Professor Autumn shares his own experiences in the entrepreneurship world and encourages students to understand the entrepreneurship process on a deeper level through engaging lectures and thoughtful discussions.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I was fortunate to be recruited by Coach Tim McCrory, who showed me that along with basketball, the L&C culture, curriculum, and community will help me foster success long after college. On my visit, I was amazed by the scenery on campus that is unlike any other college campus. For me, L&C offered the perfect environment where I can play the sport I love, explore my passions with the support of a forward-thinking community, and experience the ever-evolving city of Portland!

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

What I find most interesting about the computer science and mathematics major is the diversity in course offerings that have exposed me to various different concentrations in this field. Furthermore, the professors in the computer science and mathematics departments—especially Sweta Suryanarayan and Peter Drake—display true passion for their respective fields of study and have provided invaluable mentorship that has helped me tremendously in discovering opportunities that are right for me in the world of CS and math.

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

The entrepreneurial leadership and innovation minor is unlike any other program as it offers the perfect environment to work collaboratively, think innovatively, and gain hands-on experience in the entrepreneurial process. The coursework and events made possible through the Bates Center for Entrepreneurship and Leadership has allowed me to build my network and understand how my skills and knowledge translate to opportunities beyond college.

The data science minor is another amazing program at L&C that has allowed me to explore the interdisciplinary applications of data science and learn the best methods of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data as well as the societal consequences that come with this exploration. I have thoroughly enjoyed the liberal arts approach to data science that emphasizes communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

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

As a student-athlete, I am fortunate to have my basketball team as a support system and I find community in the greater L&C athletics community, but I have also found my people throughout my courses and other social spaces on campus. In my experience as a resident advisor for first-year students, I also know that hall events are the perfect place to meet new people and create long-lasting connections.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

Know that there is a place for everyone at L&C! The transition into college may seem daunting but there are so many opportunities that will help you find your community. Attend hall and campus-wide events, support the Pios at athletic games, get involved with clubs, and do not hesitate to reach out to your RA who will be able to help you find the resources you need! The L&C community wants to see everyone learn, grow and succeed in all their aspirations.

What do you love about being a resident advisor (RA)?

Being an RA has been one of the most rewarding and valuable experiences for me. I love being able to host fun and engaging events for my residents, such as movie nights and food events, that help build a sense of community and belonging within the residential hall. Furthermore, I know that there are challenges that come with transitioning to college, and my position as an RA allows me to provide my residents with whatever resources they need to succeed and be well. Being an RA allows me to help my residents get the most out of their college experience!

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

I love playing basketball at L&C because of the team’s culture of togetherness. Everyone on the team wants each other to succeed on a personal level, which fuels the team’s success as a whole. We dedicate countless hours of work when it comes to basketball, but the program also emphasizes academic success as well. Team study halls, assignment trackers, and relying on each other and coaches for academic resources creates a culture of success on and off the court. Balancing athletics and academics is not trivial, but the approachable professors and advisors at L&C also help tremendously. By keeping a detailed schedule and maintaining communication with my professors, coaches and team, I am able to pursue success in basketball and in my academics.

Computer Science and Mathematics Data Science
Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation