Arista Engineer

The classes on my overseas program in London provided me with opportunities to explore English literature in more varied ways, such as through the study of contemporary works and linguistics.

Arista Engineer '19

Pronouns

she/her

Degree and Class Year

BA ’19

Hometown

Pune, India

Major

English

Extracurriculars

Bollywood Club, International Fair, Lunch Host for Admissions, works in the AES Department and Watzek Library

Overseas study

London, England

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

Welcoming, Comfortable, Exciting

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

One of my favorite classes has been Medieval Manuscripts with Associate Professor Karen Gross. It allowed me the opportunity to understand early medieval texts and how they were made. We were also able to interact with and study the illuminated texts ourselves. It provided me with a wider perspective and greater appreciation for the work that I do as a student of English literature.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

L&C was the perfect place I was looking for in terms of size, opportunity to interact with professors, and wide range of subjects. But the thing that made me most excited to come here was the warm and welcoming attitude of everyone I interacted with and, even though I wasn’t able to visit the college in person, I knew that I would fit right in.

How did you choose your overseas program? What did your time in London add to your L&C experience?

The humanities program in London was best for me since it worked well with my English major. But most of all, it was recommended to me Karen Gross, who was leading the program. My time in London and Scotland brought me closer to many more L&C students that I wouldn’t have met otherwise. Also, the classes in Queen Mary University of London provided me with opportunities to explore English literature in more varied ways, such as through the study of contemporary works and linguistics.

How do you feel supported as an international student at Lewis & Clark?

The international students community is the most warm and welcoming one on campus. Everyone at the International Students and Scholars office has gone out of their way to help us adjust to the new country and environment and to make sure we are as comfortable as possible.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

The best way to get the most out of college is to follow your gut. Move toward everything that you find intriguing, even if you are not sure you may enjoy it or be very good at it. You will be surprised at what you find. College is a good place to explore new things because it is a safe space built for that exact purpose.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?

When the weather is good, my favorite place on campus is the rose garden because it’s peaceful if you want to get away and also one of the most beautiful spots on campus. But if it’s cold or rainy, I love being in Maggie’s and hanging out with my friends or doing homework.