2009 Leaders

Alison Acuna

Year

Senior

Hometown

Walnut Creek, California

Major

Rhetoric

Favorite thing about WU

Everyone gets involved with something.

Favorite quote

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and it may be necessary from time to time to give a stupid or misinformed beholder a black eye." --Miss Piggy

Animal that best describes your personality

I am a house cat. Why? Cats are curious, and often clever, while always appreciating the finer things in life. While always wanting to explore, I am always ready to head home and curl up in a comfy chair or in a convenient patch of sun.

Halley Arneson

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Kodiak, Alaska

Major

Undecided (sociology? Rhetoric?)

Favorite thing about WU

Willamette's size, it really becomes your home-away-from-home. Everybody is so friendly… even the profs!

Favorite quote

“If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain” (perfect for Oregon, no?)

Animal that best describes your personality

Sea Otter. I’m charismatic, organized, live by the ocean and love sea food/sushi.

Robert (Robbie) Beard

Year

Senior

Hometown

Yankton, South Dakota

Major

Biology

Favorite thing about WU

My favorite aspect about Willamette is the enthusiasm and openmindedness of students and faculty alike that allows us to approach life with the knowledge to succeed.

Favorite quote

"If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon in a perfectly useless manner, you have learned how to live." --Unknown

Animal that best describes your personality

If I could be any animal I would be a Bearcat because that definitely spells nobility.

Raquel Bell

Year

Senior

Hometown

Coquille, Oregon

Major

Biochemistry/Pre-Med

Favorite thing about WU

The tight communities and the fact that anywhere you go you'll always run into friends.

Favorite quote

"There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will." --Epitectus

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a wolf or a fox because I'm extremely loyal while still being independent and also having to rely on brains over brawn.

Kira Bohm

Year

Junior

Hometown

Portola, California

Major

German and Spanish

Favorite thing about WU

The people. The conversations. The hugs.

Favorite quote

"Don't quote the laws at us. We carry swords." --Pompey

Animal that best describes your personality

Ocelot: Agile, quick, and playful.

Justin Carr

Year

Senior

Hometown

Vancouver, Washington

Major

Philosophy

Minor

undeclared Computer Science

Favorite thing about WU

The staff and students of Willamette are definitely my favorite part. Everybody here is incredibly smart, capable and friendly; if you need help, there's always someone there for you and if you want to party or just hang out, you can always find people to help you out there too!

Favorite quote

"Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough. We must do." --Bruce Lee

Animal that best describes your personality

A River Otter! I like to think I'm smart, playful, sociable, hard-working, and I really like fish.

Thea Christensen

Year

Senior

Hometown

Kodiak, Alaska

Major

English and Anthropology

Favorite thing about WU

The Bistro

Favorite quote

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams" --Eleanor Roosevelt

Animal that best describes your personality

A Platypus - they are slightly awkward but always fun to be around!

Lyndsy Clark

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Arlington, Washington

Major

Exercise Science

Favorite thing about WU

The people and how anywhere you go, there is someone there to flash you a smile.

Favorite quote

"Be the change you want to see in the world" --Gandhi

Animal that best describes your personality

Penguin - so cute!

Anne (Annie) Clarke

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Sherwood, Oregon

Major

Undeclared

Favorite thing about WU

The small campus and knowing someone everywhere I go.

Favorite quote

"Would I rather be feared or loved? Um, easy, both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me." --The Office, Michael Scott

Animal that best describes your personality

If I had to choose an animal to describe myself it would be a squirrel because they are fuzzy cute, always moving and like to hide things.

Robert Clarke

Year

Senior

Hometown

Sherwood, Oregon

Major

Biochemistry and Economics

Favorite thing about WU

The Greek System

Favorite quote

"I have two favorites: "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." --Edmund Burke, and "Being grown up isn't half as fun as growing up." --The Ataris

Animal that best describes your personality

I would say an otter because they just play all day, and I would rather just have fun all the time than do anything else.

Cole Cochrane

Year

Senior

Hometown

Dallas, Oregon

Major

History

Favorite thing about WU

Small classrooms

Favorite quote

"I like to skateboard"

Animal that best describes your personality

Monkey, because monkeys are hilarious.

Serena Cualoping

Year

Junior

Hometown

Manila, Philippiines

Major

Economics

Favorite thing about WU

The Star Trees

Favorite quote

"Imagination is more important than knowledge. For while knowledge defines all we currently know and understand, imagination points to all we might yet discover and create." --Albert Einstein

Animal that best describes your personality

A panda, because I love eating and sleeping.

Colin Cushman

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Kent, Wasington

Major

Music (possibly religious studies, also)

Favorite thing about WU

The music groups!

Favorite quote

"One can imagine a sentient picture, after being rubbed and scraped and recommenced for the tenth time, wishing that it were only a thumbnail sketch whose making was over in a minute. In the same way, it is natural to wish that [we were designed us for] a less glorious and less arduous destiny." --C.S. Lewis

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a monkey, playful, energetic, and fun-loving!

Emily Dick

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

The Dalles, Oregon

Major

Pre-Med, undeclared

Favorite thing about WU

The people!

Favorite quote

"The definition of success - To laugh much; to win respect of intelligent persons and the affections of children; to earn the approbation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give one's self; to leave the world a little better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm, and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived -- this is to have succeeded." --Ralph Waldo Emerson

Animal that best describes your personality

Duck

Erin Dickman

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Sacramento, California

Major

undecided - possibly Biology

Favorite thing about WU

The community feeling and wonderful friendships!

Favorite quote

"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." --M.K. Gandhi

Animal that best describes your personality

I would compare myself to a cat. I can be pretty playful, but I really enjoy those catnaps.

Abigail Doerr

Year

Junior

Hometown

Spokane, Washington

Major

Politics

Favorite thing about WU

The family-like community and small classes. I guess also the cheese filled, cheese covered, cheesy pretzels from Montag.

Favorite quote

"Constant Vigilance!!"

Animal that best describes your personality

Sloth, yes the sloth may move slower than most animals, but if you watch closely they are surprisingly alert and sly (and they are fun to imitate).

Paul Eldred

Year

Senior

Hometown

Eagle River, Alaska

Major

Politics

Favorite thing about WU

The strong community, and the mill stream on warm spring days!

Favorite quote

"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are." --Coach John Wooden

Animal that best describes your personality

I am told I am a panda bear (seriously, it seems to be a consensus) because I'm serene and lovable.

Theresa (Tess) Falcone

Year

Senior

Hometown

Reno, Nevada

Major

Biology

Minor

Theatre

Favorite thing about WU

Small campus means you know everyone!

Favorite quote

"Never take life seriously. Nobody gets out alive anyway."

Animal that best describes your personality

My personality is like a lion because I can be intimidating and fierce but I am caring toward those who are important to me.

Angela (Angie) Fujii

Year

Junior

Hometown

Hilo, Hawaii

Major

Sociology

Favorite thing about WU

Hawaii Club's annual lu'au

Favorite quote

"Don't ignore today, it's just as precious as yesterday and tomorrow's not going to wait for you to realize that." --Leina'ala Robinson

Animal that best describes your personality

I'd be a honu or Hawaiian green sea turtle because they spend all of their time either swimming in the ocean or basking on the beach. That's the life!

Karina Garcia

Year

Senior

Hometown

Salem, Oregon

Major

Sociology

Minor

Spanish

Favorite thing about WU

Love the campus, the small community, and my friends!

Favorite quote

"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." --Buddha

Animal that best describes your personality

A monkey because I am always going from one place to another and I like to be outside rather than in a cage or a home.

Andrew Gustin

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Reno, Nevada

Major

Politics

Minor

Environmental Science

Favorite thing about WU

The mill stream, the other students, the professors, and bistro cookies.

Favorite quote

"We've been warned against offering the people of this nation false hope. But in the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope. For when we have faced down impossible odds; when we've been told that we're not ready, or that we shouldn't try, or that we can't, generations of Americans have responded with a simple creed that sums up the spirit of a people. Yes we can." - Barack Obama

Animal that best describes your personality

A bear. Cute and cuddly form afar, but don't get too close!

Lauren Hagel

Year

Junior

Hometown

Redmond, Washington

Major

Chemistry (biochemistry emphasis)

Favorite thing about WU

Walking through campus and always seeing at least one of two people I know.

Favorite quote

"Take a chance because you never know how perfect something can turn out to be" --Unknown

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a horse because at sometimes I can e somewhat shy, but I also love to run around and have a good time!

Meagan Harn

Year

Junior

Hometown

Knappa, Oregon

Major

Psychology

Favorite thing about WU

That I quickly began to feel like Willamette and its students were my second family away from home and now when I've been gone on break and return to Willamette I say I am returning home.

Favorite quote

"He who laughs last probably didn't get the joke." --Unknown

Animal that best describes your personality

A chipmunk, because I have chubby cheeks, I'm spritely, peppy and always on the go.

Katie Hendricks

Year

Junior

Hometown

St. George, Utah

Major

Studio Art

Favorite thing about WU

I love all the awesome people I've met while at Willamette.

Favorite quote

"You're the strangest person I've ever met, she said & I said you too & we decided we'd know each other a long time." --Brian Andreas

Animal that best describes your personality

Puppy -- I'm cute, energetic, and can be slightly annoying/exasperating at times.

Alice Hill

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Cedarville, California

Major

Undecided

Favorite thing about WU

I love being involved with Campus Ambassadors, one of the Christian fellowship/communities here on campus. Campus Ambassadors has encouraged my spiritual growth, has helped me grow closer to God, and is helping me to become a more prominent and effective leader. I have also met many wonderful and inspiring people who are simply amazing!

Favorite quote

"To gain that what is worth having, it may be necessary to lose everything." --Bernadette Devlin

Animal that best describes your personality

I think I would choose a sandhill crane. They are independent and stubborn, but also sweet and loving. It takes a lot to gain their trust, but once there, they are very loyal.

Dillon Hoffman

Year

Senior

Hometown

Ruidoso, New Mexico

Major

Mathematics

Favorite thing about WU

Personal interactions with professors

Favorite quote

"Having a dream is the only thing that makes life tolerable," From Rudy.

Animal that best describes your personality

It would be a cross breed between one of the lemurs from Madagascar (The cute one, not the king), Snorlax from Pokemon (because of the sleep and laid back factor), and a penguin (because I love penguins ... and they are a complete bundle of fun.)

Hannah Jackson

Year

Junior

Hometown

Portland Oregon

Major

Math

Favorite thing about WU

The amazing professors and staff and their commitment to creating a positive academic environment.

Favorite quote

"Believe in yourself and there will come a day when others will have no choice but to believe with you." --Cynthia Kersey

Animal that best describes your personality

An otter, because I'm playful and curious and I have lots of energy!

Jillie Bea Jennings

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Denver, Colorado

Major

Music

Favorite thing about WU

The people, the mill stream, and open mic night.

Favorite quote

"The most important things to the mind are inconsequential to soul"

Animal that best describes your personality

A swan because they are intuitive and elegant.

Evan Jones

Year

Senior

Hometown

Newcastle, Washington

Major

Chemistry

Favorite thing about WU

I really appreciate the ease of access to everyone on campus, from students to professors to Deans to the President. If you have a great idea and want to talk to someone about it, the resources are available to one and all.

Favorite quote

"I'll stare straight into the sun, and I won't close my eyes until I understand or go blind" - Dustin Kensrue

Animal that best describes your personality

Have you ever seen an ant stand still?

Katie Kantrowitz

Year

Senior

Hometown

Ojai, California

Major

Comparative Literature and History of Ideas

Minor

Music

Favorite thing about WU

The Bistro!

Favorite quote

"Carpe Diem: Seize the day, lads. Make your lives extraordinary." --Dead Poets'

Animal that best describes your personality

A river otter: have you seen how much fun those guys have?!

Kelly Keans

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Encinitas/Poway, California

Major

History

Favorite thing about WU

The friendly people, it's the reason I came here! I feel like if I were having a bad day, or a great day, I could tell anybody on campus and they would care about me.

Favorite quote

"Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you." Matthew 7:7

Animal that best describes your personality

A bumble bee because I love being busy but enjoy coming back to the hive to rest. I'm hardworking, usually on community-based projects, love being part of larger organization. I enjoy traveling and I love sweets!

Anna Kelly

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

McKinleyville, California

Major

undeclared - considering International Studies

Favorite thing about WU

The amazingly fantastic people!

Favorite quote

"Your presence is often the best present" --inside of the Dove chocolate wrapper

Animal that best describes your personality

Puppy -- I'm hyper at some times and calm at others and I'm loyal and trusting no matter what.

Kara Koetje

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Stanwood, Washington

Major

Undecided

Favorite thing about WU

I love the community atmosphere!

Favorite quote

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure ..." --Nelson Mandela

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a koala bear because I am fairly laid back and down to earth.

Grace Komarek-Meyer

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Pacifica, California

Major

Music

Favorite thing about WU

I like that WU encourages all of its students to be well-rounded in their interests.

Favorite quote

"When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world." --John Muir

Animal that best describes your personality

I would describe myself with the personality of a horse, because I am very free spirited, and want to explore all the corners of the world in my life.

Paula Lee

Year

Senior

Hometown

Wilsonville, Oregon

Major

Biochemistry

Minor

double Spanish and Biology

Favorite thing about WU

The Cherry Blossoms. I love how they bloom in the spring and bring forth color to the campus.

Animal that best describes your personality

Penguin because I am outgoing but shy, loyal, I have compassion for others, and when it's cold outside I love to share a cup of hot chocolate with a friend.

Casey Legere

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

San Jose, California

Major

undeclared

Favorite thing about WU

I love how friendly everyone is and the genuine connection between students. I also love how passionate the professors are about the subjects they teach.

Favorite quote

""I felt sorry that I had no shoes, until I met a man with no feet" and "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." --Margaret Mead

Animal that best describes your personality

I had trouble with this one, so I got some help. I was told that I would be a meerkat because I am small and like to have fun. But I am also chill and compassionate and look out for others.

Danielle (Dani) Leveridge

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Woodinville, Washington

Major

Anthropology & Spanish

Favorite thing about WU

Studying by the mill stream!

Favorite quote

"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do." --Helen Keller

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a dolphin because I am really easy going and I love to have fun. I am also smart, caring, and I love to swim.

Jazmyn Li

Year

Junior

Hometown

Jinan, Shandong, China

Major

Economics

Favorite thing about WU

OSA (Office of Student Activities). aka home

Favorite quote

As we advance in life it becomes more and more difficult, but in fighting the difficulties the inmost strength of the heart is developed. -- Vincent Van Gogh

Animal that best describes your personality

Dolphin. I am very social, and I am a fast learner.

Meghan Lloyd

Year

Junior

Hometown

Albany, Oregon

Major

Art

Favorite thing about WU

So many of the professors are amazing! They are intriguing, compassionate people and it’s wonderful to have the opportunity to learn from them and get to know them.

Favorite quote

“How can I know limits from lies, if I never try?” - Dustin Kensrue

Animal that best describes your personality

An otter, because they are friendly, playful and clever.

Henry K.Y. Lo

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Major

potentially Exercise Science or Economics

Favorite thing about WU

The small environment easy fosters friendship.

Favorite quote

"I want to hang a map of the world in my house then I'm gonna put pins into all the locations that I've traveled to. But first I'm gonna have to travel to the top two corners of the map so it won't fall down." --Mitch Hedberg

Animal that best describes your personality

I'd probably choose a panda. I think I'm a pretty bubbly and cuddly individual once a person gets to know me, and I definitely LOVE to constantly eat food.

Alex Lopez

Year

Junior

Hometown

Dixon, California

Major

Rhetoric and Media Studies

Favorite thing about WU

Waller Hall! Oldest building this side of the Mississippi River still in use! Heck yeah!

Favorite quote

"The key to life is accepting challenges. Once someone stops doing this, he's dead." --Bette Davis

Animal that best describes your personality

Easy. Mickey Mouse. The hardest working animal in the biz.

Katie Lutz

Year

Senior

Hometown

Hoquiam, Washington

Major

Spanish and Sociology

Favorite thing about WU

Puddle jumping whenever it rains

Favorite quote

"Yesterday is history, today is a mystery, tomorrow is a gift; that's why we call it a present." --Elenor Roosevelt

Animal that best describes your personality

A llama because they are very patient, but when they get upset they let you know!

Lydia Marsalli

Year

Senior

Hometown

Klamath Falls, Oregon

Major

Psychology

Favorite thing about WU

Spending time on campus in the fall, good conversations with good professors, and last but certainly not least: Bistro cookies.

Favorite quote

"For all things produced in a garden, whether of salads or fruits, a poor man will eat better than has one of his own, than a rich man that has none."

Animal that best describes your personality

The animal that best describes me is a white pelican. Sometimes I like to be on my own and just soar and circle high above everything else. Other times I like hanging out in the water with all my other bird friends. Plus, they like fish and I do, too.

Mary Masla

Year

Junior

Hometown

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Major

Economics

Minor

Environmental Science

Favorite thing about WU

The Bistro!

Favorite quote

Not, a quote more of a motto: Everything happens for a reason.

Animal that best describes your personality

A fish, because they get to be in the water all day long!

Chelsea McLennan

Year

Senior

Hometown

Hillsboro, Oregon

Major

Mathematics

Minor

Rhetoric and Spanish

Favorite thing about WU

I really enjoy the support system that Willamette has to offer. From the career center to campus life, you can find it all!

Favorite quote

"Respect comes to those who give it"

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a kangaroo because I can be nice, I am cute, and I can defend myself if need be.

Dani Miles

Year

Junior

Hometown

Portland, Oregon

Major

Chemistry

Favorite thing about WU

I appreciate the small classes and fun with classmates. There's a certain camaraderie among people within each major.

Favorite quote

"It is a miracle that curiosity survives formal education." --Albert Einstein

Animal that best describes your personality

White Spotted Leopard: It knows how to blend in, but it can also pop out and make a statement. Plus, it's really strong, sleek, and just plain cool!

Miku Mitsunaga

Year

Senior

Hometown

Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan

Major

Language Communication

Favorite thing about WU

Willamette University is small, and it has many events. I meet new people, and I can make new friends.

Favorite quote

Smile makes people happy, so anyway smile!!

Animal that best describes your personality

I'm usually active and friendly like a dog, but sometimes liberty and independent like a cat.

Abe Moland

Year

Junior

Hometown

Spokane, Washington

Major

Exercise Science

Favorite thing about WU

The endless opportunity available

Favorite quote

"If I am not better, at least I'm different." --Rousseau

Animal that best describes your personality

Wolverine. I heal quickly.

Catherine (Cathy) Monahan

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

La Grande, Oregon

Major

French

Favorite thing about WU

Willamette has great traditions. The mill stream. Bistro Entertainment and environment. People and TIUA.

Favorite quote

"The pessimist says it can't get any worse and the optimist says, oh yes it can."

Animal that best describes your personality

Flamingo - I love bright colors. I'm like a migratory bird, I can't stay in one place for long. Everyone notices when there is a flamingo in the room.

Jessie Myers

Year

Senior

Hometown

Sacramento, California

Major

Psychology

Minor

Sociology

Favorite thing about WU

I love how many options there are, and how much you can shape your experience to be what you want it to be. The people are great, and I've never found a more supportive network.

Favorite quote

"Take wrong turns. Talk to strangers. Open unmarked doors. And if you see a group of people in a field, go find out what they're doing. Do things without always knowing how they'll turn out. You're curious and smart and bored, and all you see is the choice between working hard and slacking off. There are so many adventures that you'll miss because you're waiting to think of a plan. To find them, look for tiny interesting choices. And remember that you are *always* making up the future as you go." --XKCD

Animal that best describes your personality

Something small, with lots of energy. A hummingbird, maybe, or else a chinchilla.

Yoshio (Yoshi) Nakayama

Year

Sophomore TIUA

Hometown

Tokyo, Japan, but I was born in China

Major

Commerce

Favorite thing about WU

Talking with American people and playing games with my friends.

Favorite quote

"Don't waste the time."

Animal that best describes your personality

A monkey, because I am a clown.

Jared Nishikawa

Year

Senior

Hometown

Fairview, Oregon

Major

Mathematics

Favorite thing about WU

The math department

Favorite quote

"I love deadlines. I like the whooshing sound they make as they fly by."

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a sloth. The reason? I occasionally grab onto my own arm, thinking it's a branch, and then crash, still confused, to the forest floor.

Rory O'Brien

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Sacramento, California

Major

Gender Studies

Favorite thing about WU

The MILL STREAM!!!

Favorite quote

"It takes both sunshine and rain to make a rainbow"

Animal that best describes your personality

I'd be a squirrel probably, 'cause I'm really energetic and I don't think I ever really stop talking...

Ariana Orford

Year

Junior

Hometown

Brush Prairie, Washington

Major

Spanish and French

Favorite thing about WU

The people are legit.

Favorite quote

"If you're gonna have a cookie, have a cookie." --Pepperidge Farms

Animal that best describes your personality

A hedgehog, because I'm cute and cuddly ... but I fight back.

Blake Paisley

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Saratoga, California

Major

Economics

Favorite thing about WU

Cat Cavern lunches

Favorite quote

"All your life you are told the things you cannot do. All your life they will say you're not good enough or strong enough or talented enough; they will say you're the wrong height or the wrong weight or the wrong type to play this or be this or achieve this. THEY WILL TELL YOU NO, a thousand times no, until all the no's become meaningless. All your life they will tell you no, quite firmly and very quickly. AND YOU WILL TELL THEM YES." --Nike ad

Animal that best describes your personality

A dog, because I am loyal to a fault; if you become my friend I will stand by you and support you.

Christina Peaslee

Year

Senior

Hometown

Tigard, Oregon

Major

Classical Studies and Art History

Favorite thing about WU

The nutria

Favorite quote

"But what is happiness except the simply harmony between a man and the life he leads?" --Albert Camus

Animal that best describes your personality

A black jaguar because kitty got claws.

Taryn Pellissier

Year

Senior

Hometown

Huntington Beach, California

Major

International Studies and Spanish

Favorite thing about WU

How it feels like home.

Favorite quote

"Nothing was, nothing will be; everything is, everything has its being and it present." --Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be a jellyfish, because I love the ocean and I go great with peanut butter.

Rachael Peterson

Year

Senior

Hometown

Oakridge, Oregon

Major

Psychology

Favorite thing about WU

The quality of people I have met at WU is truly unparalleled!

Favorite quote

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." --John Quincy Adams

Animal that best describes your personality

A lion, because I consider myself strong and independent, and I enjoy a challenge!

Sarah Quigley

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Seattle, Washington

Major

Theatre and Rhetoric and Media

Minor

Spanish

Favorite thing about WU

Any given day with a little sunshine on campus! Also the Bistro, where I spend a fair share of my time doing homework and hanging out.

Favorite quote

"May you grow up to be righteous, may you grow up to be true. May you always know the truth and see the lights surrounding you. May you always be courageous, stand up right and be strong. May you stay forever young." --Forever Young, Bob Dylan

Animal that best describes your personality

A giant house cat. I don't mean like a fatty one, just the big Maine Coons that kind of behave like dogs .. Cats are intelligent creatures who are loving and affectionate but still maintain a level of mystery and independence. I like that, and I think my personality reflects that.

Caitlin Rathe

Year

Senior

Hometown

Preston, Washington

Major

Economics and French

Favorite thing about WU

There are just so many! But I'd have to say relaxing by the mill stream with a good book on a sunny day, it doesn't get much better than that.

Favorite quote

"Before you criticize anyone, walk a mile in their shoes. You'll be a mile away from them, and you'll have their shoes."

Animal that best describes your personality

A giraffe: they are caring, a little quiet, and like to eat. I'm also kind of tall and enjoy animal print purses.

Doug Rice

Year

Senior

Hometown

Salem, Oregon

Major

Biochemistry

Favorite thing about WU

Living so close to all your friends!

Favorite quote

"A coward dies a thousand deaths; a brave man only one"

Animal that best describes your personality

A koala because I am ferocious!

Kaitlyn Taylor Rice

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Boise, Idaho

Major

undecided, leaning towards rhetoric

Favorite thing about WU

The people - classmates are all super cool and professors are extremely helpful and do great at their jobs.

Favorite quote

"I don't want a straw; I want real human moments." This comes from a quote in the movie "Waking Life."

Animal that best describes your personality

I would have to say a giraffe. Is that weird? I just think of them as really laid back and I would enjoy their lifestyle - always just hanging out and eating all day.

Tom Salina

Year

Junior

Hometown

Great Falls, Montana

Major

International Studies

Favorite thing about WU

Sitting by the Mill Stream on a sunny spring day, looking around and seeing musicians, athletes, chemistry majors, art minors, guys and gals, and knowing they are all my good friends.

Favorite quote

"But what is happiness except the simple harmony between a man and the life he leads?" --Albert Camus

Animal that best describes your personality

A lion ... but a really cool lion ... ya

Gwen Schulze

Year

Senior

Hometown

Silverdale, Washington

Major

Psychology

Favorite thing about WU

The great friends I have made during the years that I have been here as well as the open-minded attitudes of the students, faculty, and professors on campus.

Favorite quote

"Everyday is a choice to be happy"

Animal that best describes your personality

A dolphin - they are fun, smart, have bubbly personalities and they love to swim!

Yu Senzaki

Year

Senior

Hometown

Tokyo, Japan

Major

Favorite thing about WU

It is a very pretty campus and has different views every season!

Favorite quote

"The world that I always dream is just one peaceful land."

Animal that best describes your personality

I think I'll be a dog if I have to choose an animal. First of all, I'm a dog person and have two dogs at home. Also, I'm very loyal to my friends just like dogs are very loyal to their owners. I'm friendly, lively and sometimes may jump up and down when I have a conversation with my friends. My friends told me that I looked like a dog who wants snacks when I did that. Thus, I think the dog is the best description of me.

Catie Simonson

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Fairview, Oregon

Major

Undeclared, prospective American Ethnic Studies & Anthro Double major

Favorite thing about WU

The freedom of choice to be involved in any multitude of activities.

Favorite quote

"Nothing in the world is permanent, and we're foolish when we ask anything to last, but surely we're still more foolish not to take a delight in it while we have it. If change is of the essence of existence one would have thought it only sensible to make it the premise of our philosophy." --W. Somerset Maugham (1874-1965) The Razor's Edge, 1943

Animal that best describes your personality

Jaguar, because they are strong and powerful and protective.

Suzanne Spencer

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Oakland, California

Major

Anthropology

Favorite thing about WU

My favorite thing about Willamette is the Bistro! And I love all of the opportunities we have to learn outside of the classroom.

Favorite quote

"I never let my schooling interfere with my education." --Mark Twain

Animal that best describes your personality

An Albatross, because I'm always ready for adventure.

Tyler Starr

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Hopkins, Minnesota

Major

Undeclared, most likely either Biology or Chemistry

Favorite thing about WU

Small class sizes and friendly atmosphere

Favorite quote

"Now and then it's good to pause in our pursuit of happiness and just be happy."

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be 69% penguin, 45% hamster, 22% koala, and 3% sea urchin because I'm random and terrible at these types of questions.

Geoffrey Suthers

Year

Junior

Hometown

Honolulu, Hawaii

Major

Theatre and Anthropology

Minor

possible Psychology

Favorite thing about WU

When you ask a professor, "Hey, do you want to grab some coffee and chat tomorrow?" and they say "Absolutely, here's when I'm free."

Favorite quote

"What amazes me the most is that with all of the horrible tings that happen in the world, people keep going on loving each other..." --David, in Orange Flower Water, a play by Craig Wright.

Animal that best describes your personality

A hummingbird; no one ever sees me when I'm not doing something, I always keep myself occupied and I'm full of energy. And who doesn't smile when they see a hummingbird? Even flowers.

Sarasa Suzuki

Year

Sophomore TIUA

Hometown

Tokyo, Japan

Major

International Relationship

Favorite thing about WU

Bistro!!!

Favorite quote

"Never give up!"

Animal that best describes your personality

Dog, because I love people.

Kristen Svenson

Year

Senior

Hometown

Salem, Oregon

Major

English

Favorite thing about WU

Midnight Breakfast

Favorite quote

"There's no reason to become alarmed, and we hope you'll enjoy the rest of your flight. By the way, is there anyone on board who knows how to fly a plane?" -Airplane

Animal that best describes your personality

It changes daily. Today I am definitely a leopard...tomorrow I might be a turtle. It all depends on my moods - they vary.

Colby Takeda

Year

Junior

Hometown

Mililani, Hawaii

Major

Exercise Science

Favorite thing about WU

Sushi Tuesdays at kaneko Cafe. It kills my meal points but fills my stomach nicely!

Favorite quote

Live Fierce, Live Free

Animal that best describes your personality

An Ant ... I'm skinny, but destined to be an Olympic weightlifter.

Eli Taylor

Year

Junior

Hometown

Hillsboro, Oregon

Major

Psychology

Favorite thing about WU

I absolutely love the community and the small feel goes well with that.

Favorite quote

"Lefty: "I'm sorry, was that guy your boyfriend? The guy who took a step back and let you fall?" Chuck" "It was actually a really affectionate gesture. In context." --RIP Chuck and Ned Pushing Daisies

Animal that best describes your personality

A dog. One of those dogs that loves everyone, but is a little awkward. Like, knocks overs a lamp or two and drools on occasion... But people always warm up to him, because he's a dog AND he loves them.

Victoria (Tori) Tomlinson

Year

Junior

Hometown

Scottsdale, Arizona

Major

History

Favorite thing about WU

The openness of the people, I feel like I could sit down at any table at dinner and be welcomed by the people who are sitting there, even if I've never spoken to them before in my life.

Favorite quote

"Make up your minds that happiness depends on being free, and freedom depends on being courageous" --Pericles

Animal that best describes your personality

An ocelot. It has the characteristics of a cat (intelligence, independence, affectionate, playful, a dislike for rats) but is cooler. They are active in the night and lazy during the day. Also Salvador Dali had one as a pet, and that's just awesome.

Evan Turner

Year

Junior

Hometown

Seattle, Washington

Major

Economics

Favorite thing about WU

The opportunities, the ability to be a part of many clubs and participate in as many activities as I can at Willamette.

Favorite quote

"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved." --William Jennings Bryan

Animal that best describes your personality

Panda -- it's big, enjoys cold weather, cuddly, and always hungry.

Katie Vaughan

Year

Senior

Hometown

Moscow, Idaho

Major

International Studies

Favorite thing about WU

Rafting the mill stream, bistro cookies.

Favorite quote

"My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together." --Desmond Tutu

Animal that best describes your personality

I would be one of the otters holding hands.

Amanda Washko

Year

Senior

Hometown

Hayden, Idaho

Major

Theatre

Minor

Art History

Favorite thing about WU

Pink Snow Day in the spring!

Favorite quote

"We are living art, created to hang on, stand up, forbear, continue and encourage others -Maya Angelou

Animal that best describes your personality

A bunny because I am playful and small and my nose wiggles when I talk.

Kelsey White

Year

Sophomore

Hometown

Camp Sherman, Oregon

Major

Anthropology

Favorite thing about WU

When the sun comes out, even if it's just 50 degrees outside, everyone flocks to the quad and the mill stream to attempt at a tan. The people and sense of community are so incredible too.

Favorite quote

"We don't stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing."

Animal that best describes your personality

Deer ... calm, gentle, loves nature, athletic, close to my family and friends, bouncy, energetic, relaxing.