Anna Foster

What has been your favorite class so far? How did it expand your knowledge?

My favorite class was Reimagining Teaching and Learning with Professor Jennifer de Saxe. I took this my first year as an elective; it had nothing to do with my desired major of environmental studies. The class changed the way I thought about education and about life. It’s a great example of when students speak of L&C classes as pivotal and invaluable. Jennifer is an amazing professor and I’ve taken multiple education courses just to have her as my instructor.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I knew I wanted a small, liberal arts college. When I came to visit, it just felt right; I could see myself going to school here and being happy.

How does being involved with College Outdoors complement your academic experience?

I think academics is just one part of my college experience, and College Outdoors is another large part of my growth as a person and as a leader. I’ve learned so many important life skills, met incredible people, improved my professional development, and seen beautiful places through leading trips. All of these factors translate directly to my academic experience and happiness at L&C.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?

One of my favorite spots on campus are the picnic tables outside of Manzanita Hall. I lived in Manzi my first and second years, and I made so many memories there. I also love the reflecting pools. They’re a great place to go to relax in the sun (when we have it). Not to mention it’s the most beautiful spot on campus, with views of Mount Hood on a clear day.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Portland?

The people, the places, and the food! I grew up in the Midwest and so the culture of Portland is different and fun to experience. I also love leading trips with College Outdoors just outside of Portland to Mount Hood, the Gorge, and the coast. Also, you can’t live in Portland without eating way too much delicious food.

How did you decide on a major?

I came to college wanting to be an environmental studies major, and so I took all of the prerequisites for the ENVS intro class. I almost changed majors on multiple occasions though, because L&C has so many cool classes in different departments.

What’s your best Lewis & Clark memory so far?

I think my best memories are when I’m just hanging out with my friends around campus, or when I’m on College Outdoors trips. The dynamics of Lewis & Clark are unique in that there are small, tight-knit communities around campus. I’ve definitely enjoyed getting to know cool people.

How do you manage stress?

I manage stress by setting aside time to study and staying organized. Once you know your schedule for a semester, it’s easy to plan and manage your time.

Do you have a job on campus? If so, how do you fit work into your schedule?

Yes, I had two on-campus jobs this year. I worked in the College Outdoors Office as an assistant leader on trips, and I was the student coordinator for the Outdoor Pursuits Living-Learning Community. It’s pretty easy to schedule work around your classes because you already know your schedule by the time the semester starts. I found that having less free time made me more productive. Additionally, everyone on campus is very aware that students have stressful schedules, so most positions have flexible hours.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

If you’re not sure about Lewis & Clark, come visit! I didn’t know I wanted to come to L&C until I visited. When you’re here, talk to students! We’re usually very friendly and don’t mind answering any questions you have. I would also suggest just signing up for everything that interests you during your first semester. There are so many cool clubs and opportunities on campus, and you never know what you’ll end up loving until you try it.

How has Lewis & Clark changed you?

I don’t think that L&C has changed me, but I think I’ve grown a lot thanks to the classes I’ve taken and experiences that I’ve had.