Luke Bass

What’s your favorite class? Why?

My favorite class is Metabolic Biochemistry, taught by Visiting Assistant Professor JP Gourdine, because I am able to learn about the bigger picture of biochemistry. Dr. Gourdine does an amazing job at articulating several metabolic pathways that are the backbone of a functioning living system, and he always brings a level of enthusiasm that helps the learning process. Metabolic biochemistry is an intense class that has challenged me in many ways, but I have grown tremendously from it. This class is also one of the reasons that I am interested in pursuing a future career in biochemical research.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

When I took my visit here, two things stood out to me: the campus and the students. Lewis & Clark College is one of the most beautiful campuses in the entire country, and it is the perfect place to enjoy the Pacific Northwest weather. There are countless opportunities to walk around the campus and the nearby hiking trails when a study break is needed, and these have channeled great social experiences for myself and my friends. The student population here is great as well. Everyone is determined to perform the best they can, and L&C provides ample opportunities to do so.

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

I really like the biochemistry and molecular biology major because I am able to receive great insight into both biology and chemistry as well as their current applications. As I have taken more biochemistry courses, I am continually amazed at what this interdisciplinary degree has to offer. Biochemistry is a continually growing field, and job opportunities after college are ample for those who work hard. This is also a pretty flexible major, and it can open doors for several different pathways after your time at L&C. Many people who finish this program can either go into medical school, graduate school for research, or they can go into teaching. I think that the BCMB major allows students to experience what sciences they enjoy the most, especially if they are not quite sure what they want to do.

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

L&C is full of people that are here to make sure that our experience is the best it can be. From personal experience, the athletics department has done a tremendous job at helping me become the best student and athlete I could become. Academics is the focal point at this school, and everyone makes sure that we get the help we need, when we need it. If you have a goal in mind, L&C has the support systems (professors, advisors, mentors, etc.) to make it happen. My experience in the residence halls was also great. I had an amazing roommate my first year (who I still live with), and there was always someone available to contact if we had a problem. You get to meet so many new people from all over the country, and there are always great opportunities to attend social events that are either put on by the school or by other organizations in Portland. Overall, I am very happy with the support systems and social outlets that L&C has to offer.

What advice do you have for incoming students?

If I had one piece of advice for incoming students, I would say that your relationships with your professors are of the utmost importance. I did not realize this, but many professors that I had in my first and second years would end up writing important letters of recommendation for me later in my college career. Due to the smaller class size, you get to learn much more from your professors, and you will receive individual feedback that you would not get at larger universities. Professors are always available to students during office hours, and appointments can always be made if there are conflicts. If you have a chance to meet with your professor, do it! You can learn lots from them, and these meetings can open doors for you. In the end, the professors here only want to see you grow and succeed, and that is only possible if you really focus on building good relationships with your professors.

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology