Jacob Serafini

Jacob Serafini BA '21

Pronouns

he/him

Degree and Class Year

BA ’21

Hometown

Vista, California

Major

Mathematics and Economics (double)

Extracurriculars

Baseball

What three words would you use to describe L&C?

Personable, Unique, Kind

The faculty at L&C do everything to make a personal connection to you, making discussions and questions much easier. The campus is jaw-dropping, especially in its unique location so close to downtown Portland. Everyone is here to support your best interests and they are willing to work with you through any problems you may have.

What’s your favorite class? How has it expanded your knowledge?

My favorite class so far has been Calculus III with Iva Stavrov. Professor Stavrov is incredibly brilliant and passionate about what she does, taking extra effort to make sure students understand the material. This class taught me to conceptualize extremely tough three-dimensional concepts and calculations in a much simpler way, which has opened up many avenues of study in the math department.

Who is your mentor on campus? Why do you consider this person your mentor?

My mentors on campus are the amazing baseball coaches: Coaches Kosderka, Wilson-Traisman, Allen, Del Prado, and Rupp. These coaches make me into a better baseball player and a better man each and every day. They expect the most out of me and push me to my limits. They are there if I ever need anything, whether it is baseball-related or not.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I decided to come to Lewis & Clark college for three important reasons. The first was that I would be getting an incredible liberal arts education. I knew that I would be able to make personal connections with my professors, which will not only help me in classes now but will help me with future networking. The second reason was that I would get the opportunity to play collegiate baseball and at an up and coming program, which was a dream of mine. The third reason was to experience the beautiful state of Oregon and the exciting city of Portland, which has endless things to entertain you.

Why did you choose to get involved in ASLC? What’s your role in student government?

I chose to get involved with ASLC in order to create change on campus. As a senator, I have the power to draft bills and resolutions that deal with various issues that affect how things operate on campus. Currently, I am working with my roommate to create a campus-wide “LC App” that will help the spread of information on campus! In the past, ASLC has been responsible for funding College Outdoors and other services at L&C.

Why do you choose to play baseball at a DIII school? How do you balance athletics and academics?

I chose to play baseball at a DIII school because it allows me to still have a focus on my academics. At other levels of college sports, it is pretty clear that you are an athlete-student and not a student-athlete. DIII has implemented specific rules that allow us to turn our focus towards school at different parts of the year, which allows me to enjoy the best of both worlds!

What’s your favorite spot on campus?

My favorite location on campus is undoubtedly the reflecting pool. Rain or shine, you can walk by this area and be amazed by the beautiful scenery that stretches all the way to Mount Hood! It is a fantastic place to study as well.

How did you decide on a major?

Deciding on a major is tough! Fortunately, at Lewis & Clark, we have college advisors that help walk you through any questions that you may have. Additionally, professors are extremely welcoming in their offices and so I often would wander around asking different questions about their respective disciplines, which helped give me a better idea of what matched my interests.

How do you manage stress?

My favorite way to manage stress is to exercise. When I’m not in season for baseball, I go to our weight room in Pamplin Sports Center or head out to Griswold to run on the track, which is open almost all night because the lights are left on for students!