Kaia Hirsch

What’s your favorite class? Why?

Philosophy of Climate Change with Professor Jay Odenbaugh. Every lecture challenged my perspective and what I thought I knew about environmentalism.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

The small class sizes and beautiful campus drew me to Lewis & Clark.

What do you like or find most interesting about your major?

I like the interdisciplinary approach that environmental studies takes. The major provides many opportunities to connect with professors from different departments.

What do you like or find most interesting about your minor?

I enjoy the hands-on experience of the entrepreneurial leadership and innovation practicum classes. The class sizes are small and you learn a lot of technical pre-professional skills.

Tell us about your support systems and social outlets on campus: people, activities, clubs, res halls, etc.

As a resident advisor, I’m lucky to have such a great support system with the Campus Living organization. There are so many resources available through residential halls for support as a student and a student staff member.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

I recommend joining a club that you wouldn’t normally sign up for. It’s a great way to meet new people and potentially find a new hobby.

Have you been involved with one of our symposia, as an organizer or participant? What was the experience like? How did the event complement your academic experience?

I am currently one of the cochairs of the ENVX: Environment Across Boundaries symposium. The ENVX symposium is the perfect balance of event planning, leadership, organization, and research. The symposium is one of my favorite offerings of the environmental studies program.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Portland?

I love Portland in the summertime. The waterfront trail by OHSU is one of my favorite spots.

How would you describe sustainability at Lewis & Clark? What’s your involvement with any sustainability initiatives on campus?

The sustainability program at Lewis & Clark is a great office to connect students to job opportunities, volunteering, and academic guidance. I did the Bates Center Summer Sustainability Internship course, which was a great opportunity to connect with sustainability opportunities in Portland.

Environmental Studies Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation