Marta Ružić

What’s your favorite class? Why?

Songwriting with Rebecca Smith. Unlike my classical music studies, this class offers complete freedom in what I choose to explore. I receive guidance from a professional musician, who supports me in realizing my unique vision and provides training for the real world of contemporary music. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to learn from someone who is actively working in the industry.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

My decision to attend Lewis & Clark was influenced by a combination of rational considerations and intuition. On the rational side, the college’s location in an urban area with opportunities and one of the highest minimum wages was a major factor. Additionally, the prospect of receiving a full scholarship and being able to have a part-time job were also significant draws. On the intuitive side, I was inspired by the aesthetic and setting of Gravity Falls, an animated series set in Oregon I was hooked on during my high school years. Overall, I had high hopes for my future at Lewis & Clark and the unique experiences that it would offer me.

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

What I like about my music major is accessibility. Where I come from, pursuing music typically means attending a music academy, which is a highly competitive path and requires intense preparation and complete dedication. I feel that here my major is less about busywork and is more in line with my interests. I have the time and flexibility to explore my other passions, while still developing my skills as a musician. The music major is specific because we have a lot of one-credit classes (private lessons and ensembles) that require a significant amount of practice time. This is why the music major is among the most difficult, in addition to having one of the highest credit requirements.

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

Although I regularly attend on-campus events, I find myself gravitating towards the unofficial social gatherings that have nothing to do with the school’s administration. On campus, there are a few spots where students gather spontaneously, where there is an opportunity to see someone you know or have an engaging conversation with a stranger. These impromptu hangout spots are popular because they offer a refreshing change from the usual routine and provide a sense of escape from the structure of school life. As young adults, we crave more independence than what’s typically provided by the school, and these spots allow us to feel more in control of our social lives.

If you have studied or will study overseas while at Lewis & Clark, how did you choose your program? What did your overseas study add to your L&C experience?

I’ll be spending the upcoming fall semester in Berlin. After visiting the city this past summer, I decided immediately that I want to live there, so I figured I’d treat the study abroad program as somewhat of a free trial. The program is a regional area study, which means that it will provide a well-deserved break from my intense music training and work-study program. Besides, the opportunity to study in Germany for free was too good to pass up.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

Approach your interactions with an open mind. People here come from different backgrounds, so before you get offended, ask yourself: ‘I wonder what experiences have shaped this person’s perspective?’ Be sincere and take the opportunities this school offers. Don’t get too caught up in resting and recharging in your dorm—getting out and exploring can be just as refreshing.

Music