Kelsey Parker

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I had a relative attend L&C and when I visited the college, during her time here, I instantly fell in love. I was amazed by the beauty of the college and the supportive and welcoming environment created by staff and students, as well as the competitive volleyball program that I wanted to be apart of. I knew this place would challenge me and that’s exactly what I was looking for.

What have you been doing since graduation?

I am currently finishing up my last quarter of prerequisites for nursing school and submitting my applications. Since graduation, I have worked at OHSU as a lead phlebotomist in the fertility department (throughout my senior year, too) and currently work at ZoomCare Super, which is an acute care/emergency medicine facility for in/outpatients.

How did Lewis & Clark prepare you for your job and nursing school?

L&C taught me many things that range far and wide, but the two most valued traits I have gained are an open mind and being prepared for rigorous academia. The coursework at LC absolutely challenged me and tested my limits but in return I learned how to overcome that.

What would you say is the most important thing you learned at Lewis & Clark?

As stated above, I would say gaining insight from others and learning how to have an open mind were the most important thing I learned while at Lewis & Clark. Students attending L&C come from all walks of life, from different cultures and ethnicities to other countries not in the U.S., which has an impact on how we portray things. You are bound to disagree with someone’s viewpoint but this college gives you the tools and opportunities to learn how to respond and grow in a safe environment.

Why did you major in biology?

I majored in biology because I knew I wanted to be in the medical field but wasn’t set on what speciality that I wanted to pursue. In addition, it gave me the option, if I ever decided medicine wasn’t for me, to have the ability to work in other fields within STEM and not have to go back to school. Personally, biology was a safe bet for my future desired career choice.

How do you stay connected to Lewis & Clark as an alum?

I stay in contact with my mentors across campus, being a part of L&C’s alumni community and attending sporting events!

How do you describe the liberal arts?

Learning a lot about a little bit of everything.

What was your favorite class? How did it expand your knowledge?

My favorite class (and yes it is very outside my major) was Acting I with Professor Štĕpán Šimek. It was a fun, lighthearted class that made me get out of my comfort zone! I took it with some friends and it was something to look forward to every Tuesday and Thursday. I also found out that I have another hobby!

Where did you find your community on campus?

I found my community on campus within the athletic department. Everyone was competitive, in a friendly manner, and genuinely wanted me to achieve high goals on the volleyball court as well as academically.

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

Fortunately, I am able to say that I had two mentors on campus; Professors Tamily Weissman-Unni and Paulette Bierzychudek. Paulette was my advisor and my professor for multiple semesters that challenged my knowledge of class topics. She was always rooting for me to succeed and helped me plan my years at L&C as well as life after college. Tamily was my sounding board. Her and her family supported me during my volleyball career at games and pushed me academically to never stop striving for what I want. Both are lovely individuals.

Biology