Katie Ingersoll BA ’25 will be the student speaker at the College of Arts and Sciences commencement, held in Portland’s Veterans Memorial Coliseum, on May 10. Ingersoll, who hails from Bothell, Washington, is a biochemistry and molecular biology major.
What three words would you use to describe L&C?
I would say that L&C is curious, passionate, and friendly. The students here are open-minded and curious about new people and experiences. They are unapologetically themselves, embracing their own interests and passions and those of their peers wholeheartedly. Whether this is in regard to sustainability, the arts, or a sport, L&C students put in the work and the time.
What made you want to come to L&C?
Lewis & Clark stood out from the other options I was considering because of the variety of things I could DO here. This school had the most accessible study abroad programs, a variety of STEM majors, and I would get to play softball. I knew that if my interests changed, I would have plenty of ways to spend my time. I loved the hybrid nature of it—one exit away from a major city, but still feels like I’m living in the middle of the woods. Lewis & Clark offered the most balanced life out of the other schools I looked at.
What activities have you been involved in?
Softball, RA (resident advisor), SAAB Tutor, chemistry teaching assistant, Piostream Broadcasting, Assistant Professor of Biology Sharon Torigoe’s Lab (summer 2024)
Where did you study overseas?
Berlin in fall 2023.
Why did you choose your major?
I love being a biochemistry and molecular biology major because I get to learn how the world works. I was always the kid asking her parents the annoying “why? why?” questions, and pursuing a degree that examines both biology and chemistry allows me to answer those questions. It’s a challenging degree, but I love that when I come into class, there’s a possibility for me to learn something that completely rearranges my perspective.
What was your favorite class? Why?
My favorite class right now is Cell Biology with Greg Hermann. Greg brings so much energy and enthusiasm that it’s impossible not to feel engaged in class. I love that in this class we learn how to think about science. We are able to come up with some pretty cool ideas about biology, just from analyzing data, coming up with follow-up questions, and creatively designing experiments to answer those questions. I think it’s exciting to learn how the world works and to be an active participant in that learning!
How has L&C changed you?
At L&C, I have been able to explore my passions, and I have become more independent, confident, and curious. I’ve had the opportunity to work in an incredible lab on campus, and I was able to study abroad in Berlin in the fall of my junior year. These experiences are just two of many that allowed me to grow confidence in my abilities to perform science, live independently, and pursue my interests. Over the past four years, I have become more comfortable with who I am, and developed my ideas of who I want to be.
What message do you hope to convey to fellow grads at commencement?
I hope to convey the understanding that there is a lot we get to take with us when we leave by sharing the love and gratitude I feel for the people and places of Lewis & Clark. I hope that everyone will be able to find a piece of their college experience reflected in mine.
What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduation, I will be moving to Denver, where I will get experience as a medical assistant in a local clinic, with plans to apply to medical school in the future. I look forward to continuing to meet new people, explore, and learn after I leave.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Softball Commencement
