Aidan Bennett

Congratulations on being accepted into the Peace Corps! Tell us about your experience.

I arrived in Cambodia as part of the first cohort of volunteers to serve there since the COVID pandemic began. I live with a Cambodian host family and coteach English and digital literacy with Cambodian counterparts at a provincial teacher training center and the associated primary practice school. I’ve also been lucky enough to engage with teachers at a local nonprofit school and collaborate with community members to support Cambodian secondary schoolers participating in the Volunteer for My Community program. Most meaningful to me has been getting to know my host family and participating in their daily activities and traditions.

How did Lewis & Clark set you up for success during the Peace Corps application process and your time in Cambodia?

My study abroad experience in Tanzania definitely helped my Peace Corps application, especially the homestay and language-learning components. L&C offers plenty of intercultural and language-learning opportunities, opportunities to take on teaching and leadership roles, and chances to volunteer in the greater Portland community. All of these are things that can contribute to a strong Peace Corps application. And while I didn’t personally seek guidance from L&C’s Diplomat in Residence Niels Marquart BA ’75, he’s a fantastic global resource and all students should take advantage of his expertise.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I was drawn to Lewis & Clark’s reputation for good study abroad programs and a global outlook. During a visit to campus, I got the impression that the atmosphere was more collegial than competitive, which I liked, and the students seemed friendly and interesting.

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

I use the critical thinking and writing skills I developed at Lewis & Clark almost every day.

What did you like or find most interesting about your major, history?

Historical research can feel like detective work. It’s like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. When you find a piece that fits, it’s exhilarating.

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

I met many of my best friends today at Lewis & Clark and I keep in close touch with them. I recently reconnected with Professor David Campion about including my senior thesis in an exhibition at Watzek Library, which was super cool and an honor.

Where did you find your community on campus?

I made some great friends on my New Student Trip, and once we settled in on campus we introduced one another to people we met. My community grew from there.

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

I chose to study abroad in Tanzania because it was an opportunity to go to a country I didn’t think I’d be able to travel to any time soon otherwise. The trip added a new dimension and depth of experience to my time at Lewis & Clark that benefited the rest of my studies, even though it didn’t directly relate.

History