Anna Ingadottir

What’s your favorite class? Why?

My favorite class that I have taken here is Economic Development with Professor Aine McCarthy. The class takes a look at global development from an economic perspective and we discuss different aspects of development and how policies can be applied to be efficient and beneficial. In the class, there are a variety of different majors and experiences, which creates an engaging environment with different perspectives and viewpoints. The class effectively ties my two majors and interests, economics and international affairs together and I would recommend it to others interested in either subject.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I wanted to be able to get a good education at the same time getting the opportunity to continue to play the sport that I love. What really sold me on L&C was the beautiful campus, the programs offered here and the people I met and talked to in my admissions journey.

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

To me, the most intriguing part of international affairs and economics is how deeply intertwined they are, how they impact each other and the world. What makes this so interesting is recognizing that international actions and policies can affect economics as well as how they are often based around economic problems and resource dilemmas. Being able to study both subjects helps me get a broader perspective and understanding of the world.

Tell us about your support systems and social outlets on campus.

My biggest support system on campus is my team and the athletic community. My teammates are the best friends I could ask for and they are always there for me when I need them.

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 will be going to Australia in spring 2025 on the Regional Area Study Program. I chose this program because it is a great opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone and try new things. Being able to explore different types of culture and learn new skills that I can apply to my education when I return to L&C is something I am extremely excited about.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

I would say that it is so important to be open to new experiences and new people, even though it might seem scary. Coming to college is an opportunity to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone and I encourage everyone to take advantage of it.

How do you feel supported as an international student at Lewis & Clark?

My experience as an international student here at Lewis & Clark has been extremely positive. I feel really welcome and people are genuinely open and curious about my home country, Iceland. I love that I am able to immerse myself into American culture but still having the opportunity to share my own culture with the people here. I am particularly grateful for the staff in the International Students office. They are amazing and they take really good care of us, making sure that we get the help and support that we need. I know I can always go to them if I need help with anything.

What’s one of the best spots on campus?

One of the best spots on campus is the silent section in Watzek Library, in my opinion. The view is so pretty and I love going there whenever I have work to do!

What have been the biggest challenges you have faced at Lewis & Clark?

The biggest challenge I have faced here at Lewis & Clark is being this far away from home. Moving abroad to pursue higher education was not easy at first and there were times when I wanted to give up and go back home. However, learning to be independent as well as finding my community here has made Lewis & Clark and Portland my home away from home.

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

Being a student athlete here at Lewis & Clark has made my experience here on campus and I love being able to play soccer here. The whole athletic department on campus is such a supportive community and I am proud to be a part of it. It can be challenging sometimes to balance athletics and academics but nothing that a little time management and organizing can’t fix. Both coaches and professors are very understanding and always willing to give you extra help and space whenever you need it.

Why are you planning to double major? What relationship do you see between your studies?

I wanted to double major because both are topics I am highly fascinated with and wanted to learn more about and understand better. Economics and international affairs are two very intertwined areas of study that compliment each other well in regards to the real world. Economics and international affairs intersect to provide a holistic understanding of global dynamics. By combining these majors, I feel like I gain insight into how economic decisions intersect with real world problems, fostering a deep understanding of global challenges and opportunities.

International Affairs Economics International Students and Scholars