Julia Huggins
Exploring: Biology
Open gallery
From: Dover, New Hampshire
Exploring: Biology
Mixing it up: I get a kick out of understanding the world—and the world involves more than one subject. At Lewis & Clark, I’ve explored chemistry, ecology, philosophy, and geology. I’ve grown gardens on campus, kayaked in New Zealand, and researched in Ecuador. Out of this marvelous mix, I’ve earned a degree titled “biology,” but I prefer “biogeochemistry philosopher of environmentalism.”
Fueled by fungi: Supported by the Fowler Internship Award, I spent a summer doing research in the Ecuadorian rainforest with a group that uses mushrooms to metabolize and clean up oil spills. I worked long days covered in tar and sweat, but I knew that my research would have tangible benefits, and it made me excited to pursue a career in research.
Small-school symbiosis: Back on campus, my interest in mushrooms led to a research position in Assistant Professor Peter Kennedy’s microbe lab, studying the symbiotic relationship between forests and fungi. This experience will make all the difference when I apply to graduate school. None of my friends who went to bigger schools have had the opportunities, mentorship, and support that I have had here on a daily basis.
Context is everything: Lewis & Clark gave me the setting to explore all of my interests and discover where my deepest passions lie. Now I’ve found this strange, specific niche, and I know where it fits in the bigger picture. It has given me the context necessary to do effective work in the world.
More Admissions Stories
Admissions is located in Frank Manor House on the Undergraduate Campus.
MSC: 32
email admissions@lclark.edu
voice 503-768-7040
fax 503-768-7055
Vice President of Admissions and Financial Aid
Eric Staab
Admissions
Lewis & Clark
615 S. Palatine Hill Road MSC 32
Portland OR 97219