Justin Howerton
Throughout my time at Lewis & Clark, I learned how to approach and solve problems creatively, how to innovate, and how to speak up.
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What three words would you use to describe L&C?
What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?
I choose Lewis & Clark for its academic rigor, its faculty-to-student ratio, and its commitment to ensuring its students have access to a wealth of research opportunities. The campus’ proximity to both natural areas and Portland, a city built for creatives, informed my decision as well.
What have you been doing since graduation?
I have been working as a technology recruiter for a global talent solutions agency. Recently, however, I learned of my acceptance into the fully-funded MFA program at Louisiana State University. I’ll be joining their ranks this fall. I credit this accomplishment in large part to the attention and care of the creative writing faculty. Geaux tigers!
How did Lewis & Clark prepare you for your job?
I’ve found that my interdisciplinary undergraduate study has equipped me with the skills necessary to thrive in both corporate and academic environments. I owe my success to the devoted faculty members who advised me to always pursue that which stokes my curiosity. Throughout my time at Lewis & Clark, I learned how to approach and solve problems creatively, how to innovate, and how to speak up.
What would you say is the most important thing you learned at Lewis & Clark?
Embrace dissent. It is the act of defending your ideas against contrary opinions that either confirms or denies their validity.
Why did you double major in English and computer science and mathematics?
Even in high school, I knew I’d major in English or a related field, given my long-standing relationship with both reading and writing. I selected English, too, for the versatile skills students acquire through the coursework. English majors find success in copywriting, law, marketing, and a litany of other professions. Most importantly, faculty members teach students how to think for themselves—using evidence, of course!
My second major, computer science and mathematics, came as a surprise. Previously, I never thought much about the subject, but a passionate faculty member ignited my interest during my first semester at L&C. I began to appreciate the ubiquity and significance of mathematical logic in our world, and my fascination snowballed from there. As Dr. Yung-Pin Chen told me once, mathematics, like English, is a language, albeit with a different set of rules. I’m thankful I had the encouragement and endless support from both departments to carve out my own academic niche.
How do you stay connected to Lewis & Clark as an alum?
I lean heavily on the network of lifelong connections I made during my time as an undergraduate. I stalk L&C’s LinkedIn page on occasion, too.
