- Willamette
- Administrative Departments
- Student Activities
- Annual Programs
- Opening Days
- 2012 Opening Days Leaders
2012 Opening Days Leader Profiles
Opening Days leaders are a diverse group representing all parts of the Willamette community in their interests and activities. They are actors and athletes, transfer and international students, Greek and independent, and represent all different ages and years of students.
The one thing these leaders all share is their desire to meet and assist new students. The leaders are carefully selected during a competitive application process in February of each academic year. After their selection, they complete a Spring Training and then return to school in August for intensive training and preparation before Opening Days begins.
Besides leading the new students during Opening Days, these leaders are also responsible for planning all the events and programs that occur during Opening Days. Every leader is a member of one of the OD committees, each responsible for planning different events.
Jaci Abeloe
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Medford, Oregon
- Major
- Rhetoric and Media Studies
Favorite thing about WU
The opportunity to really branch out and meet new people, learn interesting things, and make awesome memories. But the Bistro cookies are a close second.
Favorite quote
"We're all pretty bizarre. Some of us are just better at hiding it, that's all." - The Breakfast Club
Animal that best describes your personality
If I could be any animal, I'd be an octopus because I like to multi-task and those extra limbs could really come in handy.
Allely Albert
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Mill Valley, California
- Major
- American Studies and French
- Minor
- Psychology
Favorite thing about WU
All of the friendly people!
Favorite quote
"Imagine a world, like nothing you've ever seen, where everyday is an adventure. A world where you never have to grow up or grow old." - Peter Pan
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a fox because I'm quick, clever, and playful.
Domonique Alcaraz
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Los Angeles, California
- Major
- Rhetoric and Media Studies
Favorite thing about WU
The Mill Stream because it bursts to life when the sun shines and all of your favorite people come out to play.
Favorite quote
"Laugh as much as you breathe and Love as long as you live."
Animal that best describes your personality
Humm... a mink! They have rich glossy coats that are brown and look silky which is similar to what most people say about my hair, haha. Most importantly they are said to be bold and ferocious (in a nice/good way) which I believe is quite true about myself.
Bianca (Beebs) Arreola
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Klamath Falls, Oregon
- Major
- Biology
- Minor
- Anthropology
Favorite thing about WU
Laying by the Mill Stream on a nice spring day!
Favorite quote
"Si se puede" - Gotta Kick It Up - Disney Channel Movie
Animal that best describes your personality
A puppy because they are fun, cuddly, and obviously a good buddy!
Michelle (Meesh) Atherton
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Newbury Park, California
- Major
- Art History
Favorite thing about WU
The Bistro and sitting by the Mill Stream on sunny days.
Favorite quote
"Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart, and try to love the questions themselves."
Animal that best describes your personality
A koala because I'm cuddly and like to sleep.
Charlotte (Annie) Bender
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Fairbanks, Alaska
- Major
- Economics
- Minor
- Politics
Favorite thing about WU
Opening Days. Case and point.
Favorite quote
"I wanna ditch the logical" - Eve 6
Animal that best describes your personality
If I had a choice to be an animal, I think it'd be pretty sick to be a snow leopard. You get to chill in the mountains of Asia romping around having a good time, soulds like a sweet life.
Allyson (Ally) Boland
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Napa, California
- Major
- History
- Minor
- Women and Gender Studies
Favorite thing about WU
Small community feeling.
Favorite quote
"It is our choices, that show us who we truly are, far more than our abilities" - Albus Dumbledore
Animal that best describes your personality
A giraffe, because I'm tall, awkward and lanky.
Zachary (Zack) Boyden
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Reno, Nevada
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
The political activism of the campus.
Favorite quote
"Knowledge is realizing that the street is one-way, wisdom is looking both directions anyway." - Unknown
Animal that best describes your personality
A Bear -- I may look big and scary, but I'm just a bit bumbling and slightly amused.
Lauren Branch
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Salem Oregon
- Major
- Psychology and Politics
Favorite thing about WU
Greek Life and Women's Rugby.
Favorite quote
"There is enough love in this world for everybody, if people will just look." - Kurt Vonnegut, Cat's Cradle
Animal that best describes your personality
Fennec Foxes, they are the perfect combination of fun loving and diligent.
Julia (Jewlz) Brand
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Kaneohe, Hawaii
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
Mill Stream, Bistro Cookies, and all the friendly people.
Favorite quote
A very wise man once told me "Fear is a Instinct, but Courage is a Choice."
Animal that best describes your personality
I would say a cat would best describe my personality because they are playful and sometimes feisty yet loyal and loving.
Chris Buto
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Honolulu, Hawaii
- Major
- International Studies
Favorite thing about WU
The personal feel of the school and the small class sizes.
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." - John Wooden
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a grizzly bear because I love big hugs and long naps.
Bethany Cardo
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Beaverton, Oregon
- Major
- Exercise Science
Favorite thing about WU
I love how real and down-to-earth everyone here is. The community feeling on campus is wonderful!
Favorite quote
"If you aren't in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?" - T.S. Eliot
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a butterfly because to me they represent transformation and Willamette has helped transform me into the person I am now!
Elaine Carpenter
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Reno, Nevada
- Major
- Rhetoric and Media Studies
- Minor
- Classics
Favorite thing about WU
Bistro! And of course the wonderful opportunities which present themselves left and right.
Favorite quote
"You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think"
Animal that best describes your personality
A kangaroo! Because they are fun, energetic and caring.
Cody Alexander Chasteen
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Roseburg, Oregon
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
I love the community here.
Favorite quote
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that matters."
Animal that best describes your personality
I'd be a tiger, because they're really really cool.
Alyssa (Maka) Chee
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Ewa Beach, Hawaii
- Major
- Politics with a Pre-Law Intent
Favorite thing about WU
Willamette Academy
Favorite quote
"Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." - Albert Einstein
Animal that best describes your personality
A dolphin because I love the ocean, I'm friendly and outgoing and I'm always happy.
Colin Chin
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Oakland, California
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
Bistro, Greek Life
Favorite quote
"Seek to understand the root. It is futile to argue as to which single leaf, which design of a branch, or which attractive flower you like; when you understand the root, you will understand all its blossoming." - Bruce Lee
Animal that best describes your personality
A sloth, because they love warm weather, "hanging out" and they always have a smile on their face.
Deanna Choy
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Aiea, Hawaii
- Major
- Music Education
Favorite thing about WU
The people. The people you will meet are all very nice and make WU like a second home. They are very supportive and encouraging.
Favorite quote
"When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable." - Walt Disney
Animal that best describes your personality
A Panda! I love pandas! They are lazy, sleep and eat, but still have fun in the sun! They are also very cute!
Scott Clardy
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Ilwaco, Washington
- Major
- Theatre
Favorite thing about WU
The deep level of community that extends beyond just the students; both faculty and staff.
Favorite quote
"Risk, Fail, Risk Again"
Animal that best describes your personality
Owl: both majestic and wise.
Nathan Combs
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Vashon Island, Washington
- Major
- Film Studies
Favorite thing about WU
Professors are amazing and go out of their way to forge personal connections to students. Students are all welcoming and friendly and create a great atmosphere on campus and off.
Favorite quote
"Suits are full of joy. They're the sartorial equivalent of a baby's smile ..." - Barney Stinson
Animal that best describes your personality
Koala
Jeffrey (Jeff) Cooke
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Bakersfield, California
- Major
- Art History
Favorite thing about WU
The wonderful people! All of the students, professors, and staff really are committed to fulfilling the university's motto "Not unto ourselves alone are we born."
Favorite quote
"It is no small matter to develop the noble out of the commonplace, the beautiful from the formless." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Animal that best describes your personality
I am like a cat, calm and cool.
Taylor Cooksy
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Cameron Park, California
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The atmosphere created when the sun comes out. All of the students flood out to the Mill Stream and you can feel the joy in the air.
Favorite quote
"It was the possibility of darkness that made the day seem so bright" - Stephen King
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a sting ray, they swim all day free to explore a beautiful world.
Karla Corrales
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Norwalk, Connecticut
- Major
- Spanish
- Minor
- Theatre
Favorite thing about WU
The Bistro and its amazing cookies!!!
Favorite quote
"Never Lie, Steal, Cheat, or Drink. but If You Must Lie, Lie in the Arms of the One You Love. If You Must Steal, Steal Away from Bad Company. If You Must Cheat, Cheat Death and If You Must Drink, Drink in the Moments That Take Your Breath Away."
Animal that best describes your personality
Sugar glider, because I have a huge sweet tooth and I like the night time more than the day time!!
Jordan (Jo) Crownover
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Huntington Beach, California & Astoria, Oregon
- Major
- International Studies and Spanish
Favorite thing about WU
The welcoming community -- students, professors, and faculty alike.
Favorite quote
"For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chairs, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others." - Nelson Mendela
Animal that best describes your personality
I'd be an otter because they are silly, playful, and get along with other otters.
Marshall Curry
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Springfield, Oregon
- Major
- Sociology
- Minor
- Chemistry
Favorite thing about WU
The opportunity to learn at such a high level with peers who are just as excited about it.
Favorite quote
"My mauff's bleedin' Bert! My Mauff's bleedin'!"
Animal that best describes your personality
Rhino, I like to charge into things, but I have terrible eyesight.
Laura Curtis
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Sisters, Oregon
- Major
- Politics
Favorite thing about WU
The trees
Favorite quote
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't --you're right" - Henry Ford
Animal that best describes your personality
A fox ... the reasons are self-explanatory.
Dustin Daniel
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Keizer, Oregon
- Major
- Archaeology
Favorite thing about WU
The people!
Favorite quote
"I love deadlines. I like the whooshing sound they make as they fly by." - Douglas Adams
Animal that best describes your personality
Teddy Bear. Self-Explanatory
Rachel Dierken
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Missoula, Montana
- Major
- English
- Minor
- Psychology
Favorite thing about WU
Never-ending supply of smiles from everyone!
Favorite quote
"A quotation is a handy thing to have about, saving one the trouble of thinking for oneself." - A.A. Milne
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a tuxedo cat; I'm curious, I've got the classy as well as the spazzy thing down, and I love taking naps!
Hannah Duncan
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Winston, Oregon
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
My favorite thing about Willamette is the Bistro, the sense of community, and how full of history and traditions Willamette is!
Favorite quote
"It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live." - Albus Dumbledore
Animal that best describes your personality
I would choose a monkey because they live in groups and I love to socialize! They're also known for being comical and I love making people laugh!
Alexa Dunn
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Sacramento, California
- Major
- International Studies
Favorite thing about WU
Despite the small size of campus, there are a lot of different people to meet.
Favorite quote
"Speak the truth, even if your voice shakes."
Animal that best describes your personality
An owl! They are very contemplative and wise, and I strive to be that way. Plus, more than any other animal in cartoons, they wear glasses and look sophisticated. I feel like my glasses also make me sophisticated, when I actually wear them.
Brendan Dwyer
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Littleton, Colorado
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
The faculty -- all of the professors I've had are all brilliant and passionate people.
Favorite quote
"Madness, as you know, is like gravity. All you need is a little push" - The Joker from The Dark Knight
Animal that best describes your personality
A wolf. I have a close group of friends. I like to think things through, but I can also be very spontaneous and creative. I'm also proud, intelligent, and enjoy competitions.
Matthew (Matt) Erny
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Reno, Nevada
- Major
- Biochemistry
Favorite thing about WU
The small class sizes and the weather.
Favorite quote
"Things turn out best for people who make the best out of the way things turn out."
Animal that best describes your personality
Penguin because I am funny and they are funny looking.
Isabel (Bella) Feibert
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Ontario, Oregon
- Major
- Psychology
Favorite thing about WU
Laying by the Mill Stream when it is sunny.
Favorite quote
"If growing up means it would be beneath my dignity to climb a tree, I'll never grow up, never grow up, never grow up! Not me!" - Peter Pan
Animal that best describes your personality
Golden Retriever because I'm loyal, energetic and love people.
Kyle (K-Flowe) Flowers
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Seaside, Oregon
- Major
- Economics
Favorite thing about WU
I love seeing the same people constantly around Willamette, and meeting people is just so easy because of it. I love the small community feel that Willamette creates.
Favorite quote
"I don't really know how to put this, but ...I'm kind of a big deal ... People know me." - Ron Burgandy
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a black bear, because I'm super nice, I love wandering around to meet people, and am super friendly to everyone I see! But most importantly, I love to sleep!
Anna Fredendall
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The people!!
Favorite quote
"You're only given spark of madness. You mustn't lose it." - Robin Williams
Animal that best describes your personality
A red panda because they are cuddly, energetic, and just generally ridiculous.
Sarah Fuller
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Walla Walla, Washington
- Major
- Psychology and Spanish
Favorite thing about WU
The small-school, 'everybody knows everybody' feeling.
Favorite quote
"Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside of one, it's too dark to read."
Animal that best describes your personality
I think I would be a lion ... because most of the time I just go with the flow (and I like to sleep) but when I need to be in charge I can be!
Hannah Gandsey
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Oakland, California
- Major
- Psychology
- Minor
- Women's Gender Studies
Favorite thing about WU
The PEOPLE, all so friendly and welcoming.
Favorite quote
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." - Ghandi
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a puppy. I am energetic, good with people, loyal, and friendly.
Marin Grey
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Junction City, Oregon
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The people and the overall friendliness of campus. the students are unique and you encounter, a little bit of everything here.
Favorite quote
"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." - Oscar Wilde
Animal that best describes your personality
Monday. I'm fun-loving, curious, cuddly, loyal and like to be challenged.
Ginny Hodges
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- San Francisco, California
- Major
- Classical Studies
Favorite thing about WU
The small class sizes which allows for great relationships with professors.
Favorite quote
"A day without laughter is a day wasted" - Charlie Chaplin
Animal that best describes your personality
A blue fish on the great barrier reef in Australia named Dory.
Aya Iijima
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Tokyo, Japan
- Major
- American Studies
Favorite thing about WU
WU students are very friendly!!
Favorite quote
"Willamette is great place to have fun!"
Animal that best describes your personality
Dog!
Erica Jensen
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Shoreline, Washington
- Major
- Environmental Science
Favorite thing about WU
All of the wonderful people, Wulapalooza, and spring Preview day activities ;)
Favorite quote
"The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars." - Jack Kerouac
Animal that best describes your personality
A wombat: I'm mainly crepuscular, you can always tell where I've been, and I "treat fences as minor inconveniences to be gone through or under."
Kayla Johnson
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Onalaska, Washington
- Major
- Biology
- Minor
- Chemistry
Favorite thing about WU
The Community.
Favorite quote
"I make mistakes like the next man. In fact, being -- forgiving me -- rather cleverer than most men, my mistakes tend to be correspondingly huger." - Albus Dumbledore
Animal that best describes your personality
Ewok--because I'm tiny but ferocious.
Katy Kaszubinski
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Los Altos, California
- Major
- Exercise Science
Favorite thing about WU
Beautiful springtime when every flower is blossoming and every student is out sunbathing by the Mill Stream.
Favorite quote
"If you're not prepared to be wrong you will never come up with anything original" - Ken Robinson
Animal that best describes your personality
Dog! having a tail would be amazing, I'm down to just hanging out with people I love and it would be awesome to nap whenever AND where ever I wanted.
Kelsey Kinavey
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Reno, Nevada
- Major
- Music and English
Favorite thing about WU
The Bistro and hanging out by the Mill Stream with friends on a sunny day.
Favorite quote
"Friends are the family we choose for ourselves" - Edna Buchanan
Animal that best describes your personality
A lion! Because I am strong and take care of the people I am with.
Kayla Kosaki
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Hilo, Hawaii
- Major
- Psychology
- Minor
- Classical Studies
Favorite thing about WU
I love WU because everyone is so friendly and it makes for an amazing community.
Favorite quote
"If you want something you've never had, you have to do something you've never done before. Life begins at the end of your comfort zone."
Animal that best describes your personality
An otter, because it's adorable and fun-loving and loves to swim ... me in a nutshell.
Emily Larkin
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Minneapolis, Minnisota
- Major
- Rhetoric and Media Studies
- Minor
- Film and Arts/Technology/Multimedia
Favorite thing about WU
THE PEOPLE. Everybody is awesome in their own way, and I feel comfortable talking to anybody.
Favorite quote
"If you want to be creative, get out there and do it. It's not a waste of time" - Michael Giacchino
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a puppy. I am friendly, energetic, and love to play and cuddle. I learn quickly and am loyal to those I care about.
August (Gus) Lee
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Roseville, Minnisota
- Major
- Anthropology
Favorite thing about WU
I love the community of Willamette and how close everyone is with each other, it really makes you feel like you are welcomed and wanted.
Favorite quote
"From the heaven I've had to the hell I've been through, I'm always coming back home to you."
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be a polar bear, because I LOVE the snow, I love giving hugs, and I'm protective of those who are close to me.
Krista Leonard
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Gresham, Oregon
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The small community
Favorite quote
"Life isn't about finding yourself, it's about creating yourself" - George Bernard Shaw
Animal that best describes your personality
Hyena because they are always laughing with a loud and obnoxious laugh which basically describes my laugh and voice.
Hannah Levy
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Scotts Valley, California
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
Getting a Barz Bar at the Bistro after finishing classes!
Favorite quote
"Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy. Both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me." - Michael Scott
Animal that best describes your personality
Squirrel! They're motivated, love to eat, and (if they live on Willamette's campus) they're friendly!
Yi Liang (梁乙)
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Ningbo, China
- Major
- Economics and Mathematics
Favorite thing about WU
Cherry blossoms.
Favorite quote
"All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them" - Walt Disney
Animal that best describes your personality
Mayfly. Mayfly is an insect whose adult is short-lived, from a few minutes to a few days depending on species. I am a perfectionist. In the limited time, I always try to do my best.
Alexandra (Alex) Maresh
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Portland, Oregon
- Major
- Philosophy and French
Favorite thing about WU
Sense of community, I feel supported and encouraged to pursue my interests.
Favorite quote
"I am incapable of conceiving infinity, and yet I do not accept finity" - Simone de Beauvoir
Animal that best describes your personality
Hummingbird, because i try to remain optimistic and find the beauty in every situation.
Taylor Mason
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Prospect, Oregon
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The Star Trees; the social life and wonderful people here, freedom.
Favorite quote
"An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind."
Animal that best describes your personality
Sloth in the middle of a case of Red Bull. Take that as you will.
Lindsay McHugh
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Los Altos, California
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
The endless amount of opportunities you have to get involved!
Animal that best describes your personality
A puppy, because I'm full of energy and love to play!
Brigit Miller
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Olympia, Washington
- Major
- Chemistry
- Minor
- Spanish and Physics
Favorite thing about WU
The Bistro, great professors, great people, and an all around positive atmosphere on campus.
Favorite quote
"Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you have for sure." - Oprah
Animal that best describes your personality
I would choose a lioness because I am strong-willed and independent.
Jennie Miller
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Oakland, California
- Major
- English & International Studies
Favorite thing about WU
How friendly everyone -- students, teachers, and staff -- all are!
Favorite quote
"A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people." - Thomas Mann
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be an orca! They are beautiful creatures that travel in tight-knit groups and communicate through song. Plus they live in the ocean, and I love the ocean.
Andrew (Drew) Mittendorf
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Beaverton, Oregon
- Major
- Politics and Rhetoric and Media Studies
Favorite thing about WU
All of the student led activities and chances to get involved!
Favorite quote
"If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking." - Zen Proverb
Animal that best describes your personality
I would say a dog because I am loyal, playful, full of energy, and most of all because i am mans best friend!
Stephan Nguyen
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Tigard, Oregon
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
Being able to do what I like and finding people who enjoy the same quirky things as I do.
Favorite quote
"Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, just keep swimming, swimming, swimming" - Dory, Finding Nemo
Animal that best describes your personality
A dolphin because I love to help and care for others and being around people.
Keegan Nitz
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Aurora, Colorado
- Major
- International Studies
Favorite thing about WU
The size and the sense of community.
Favorite quote
"The great things about getting older is that you don't lose all the other ages you've been." - Madeline L'Engle
Animal that best describes your personality
I'm a sea otter. I don't know why, I've never met a sea otter before. But that's what I've been told. I like dogs and geese though.
Zach Oseran
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Issaquah, Washington
- Major
- Economics
Favorite thing about WU
Community and Professors
Favorite quote
"The only way around is through" - Robert Frost
Animal that best describes your personality
Honey Badger - I take what I want.
Kelly Rose Oster
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Windsor, California
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The community; everyone is super nice.
Favorite quote
"We're all a little weird, and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours we join up with them and fall into a mutual weirdness and call it Love." - Anonymous
Animal that best describes your personality
I think I am like a butterfly: I'm bright and cheerful and love the sunshine! I like to watch butterflies flit from flower to flower--it looks like dancing, which I love to do.
Nicole Piechocki
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Reno, Nevada
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The people and professors, of course!
Favorite quote
"Too much of a good thing is wonderful" - Mae West
Animal that best describes your personality
A peacock, because I too pay close attention to "de tail."
Sean James Piper
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Seattle, Washington
- Major
- Economics and Politics
Favorite thing about WU
The Greek community and the engaging classes and professors.
Favorite quote
"There is more to life than being really really ridiculously good looking" - Derek Zoolander
Animal that best describes your personality
A shark because they are driven, strong, and resilient and also than I would have a whole week dedicated to me on TV.
Gabi Rasmussen
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Gaston, Oregon
- Major
- International Studies and English
Favorite thing about WU
I love, love, love the language learning Center!
Favorite quote
"It doesn't always make sense to me, but when ambiguities such as grace and love manifest themselves, I'm moved by the clarity they bring." - Laura Durham
Animal that best describes your personality
My animal would be a cat -- I'm a people person, sometimes feisty, and good at reading vibes!
Brandon Richards
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Seattle, Washington
- Major
- Political Science
Favorite thing about WU
That everyone fits in (acceptance of others)
Favorite quote
"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein
Animal that best describes your personality
Golden Retriever because i am a very loyal friend and love being around other people. I also love having a good time and playing games.
Nicolette Rickert
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Templeton, California
- Major
- Psychology
Favorite thing about WU
The personal relationships you build with professors.
Favorite quote
"THIS IS WAR, PEACOCK" - Colonel Mustard (Clue)
Animal that best describes your personality
A rabbit because I am timid, cuddly, and fast.
Emmanuel (Manny) Rodriguez
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Toppenish, Washington
- Major
- Exercise Science
Favorite thing about WU
Classes, I can still feel connected to my culture through being involved in organizations and building solidarity with others.
Favorite quote
"Unshakeable faith is faith that has been shaken."
Animal that best describes your personality
A giraffe. They have a keen eyesight meaning they can keep an eye on their neighbors even at a distance, and I like to think that I'm the type of person who looks out for his close friends. Also, giraffes live busy lives (searching for food and whatnot) and I would definitely describe myself as someone with a high metabolism for productivity!
Diana Sapera
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- San Diego, California
- Major
- Psychology
Favorite thing about WU
There's a club for everyone and always a way to get involved on campus.
Favorite quote
"Things happen for a reason."
Animal that best describes your personality
It would be a white tiger. Why a white tiger? Well since I have moved up to Oregon I lost my San Diego tan, but still have my feisty, playful, strong character.
Kendra Schaffer
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Veneta, Oregon
- Major
- Anthropology
Favorite thing about WU
The people, being a part of the XC team, working at the Bistro! Wulapalooza
Favorite quote
"it's not the destination that matters, but the journey taken to get there."
Animal that best describes your personality
A zebra. Unique, crazy, and one of a kind.
Jacob Simonson
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Fairview, Oregon
- Major
- Economics and Rhetoric and Media Studies
Favorite thing about WU
The environment, in example my fraternity.
Favorite quote
"A good friend will be there to bail you out of jail anytime anywhere. A best friend will be in there with you saying, 'what'd we just do? That was awesome."
Animal that best describes your personality
A Liger. Self-explanatory.
Jeff Sirginson (Surge)
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Anaconda, Montana
- Major
- Biochemistry
Favorite thing about WU
Star Trees
Favorite quote
"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing." - Helen Keller
Animal that best describes your personality
A dog, because I'm loyal, happy, and I have a very keen nose.
Victoria Smith
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Gresham, Oregon
- Major
- Theatre and Spanish
Favorite thing about WU
Walking barefoot in the Mill Stream on a hot day, Goudy lunches, the awesome faculty and staff.
Favorite quote
"Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read." - Groucho Marx
Animal that best describes your personality
Fox, because they're clever and like to play (harmless) pranks.
Colleen Smyth
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Portland, Oregon
- Major
- History
Favorite thing about WU
The diversity in activities is awesome - there's something exciting for everyone to do.
Favorite quote
"Life is far too important a thing ever to talk seriously about." - Oscar Wilde
Animal that best describes your personality
A maiasaura because they are considered one of the most maternal and intelligent dinosaurs.
Jeremy Sobocinski
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Eagle River, Alaska
- Major
- undecided
Favorite thing about WU
The energy around campus on a sunny day.
Favorite quote
"An excellent man; he has no enemies; and non of his friends like him." - Oscar Wilde
Animal that best describes your personality
A bear because I would love to sleep away the winters. Also, I live in Alaska.
Connor (Treble Clef) Soejoto
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Auburn, California
- Major
- Music Education
Favorite thing about WU
The almost limitless opportunities available to me each day and the amazing friends that have become my new family.
Favorite quote
"Makub." - The Alchemist
Megan Stahl
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Eagle River, Alaska
- Major
- Rhetoric and Media Studies
Favorite thing about WU
Mint chocolate chip cookies from the Bistro make any day better!
Favorite quote
"Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much." - Blaise Pascal
Animal that best describes your personality
A unicorn, because they are sparkly -- just like my personality!
Cara Thompson
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Bainbridge island, Washington
- Major
- Art and Spanish
Favorite thing about WU
Falling leaves and friendly people.
Favorite quote
"How many times have I told you not to burn the toast."
Animal that best describes your personality
I am a llama and have always been one.
Jenny Warren
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Medford, Oregon
- Major
- Psychology
Favorite thing about WU
Study Abroad opportunities: I am in Thailand for Spring term 2012!
Favorite quote
"For small creatures such as we the vastness is only bearable through love." - Carl Sagan
Animal that best describes your personality
An orca: I like to sing, I'm big on community-building, and I starred in a 1990's kid movie. (Okay, 2 of those are true.)
Tana Watanabe
- Year
- Junior
- Hometown
- Federal Way, Washington
- Major
- Economics
- Minor
- Environmental Science
Favorite thing about WU
Walking around and being able to see my friends around campus on the way to class.
Favorite quote
"You must be the change you want to see in the world" - Gandhi
Animal that best describes your personality
Kangaroo because I am energetic and protective of my friends.
Mckenzie (Macky) Weinhold
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Placerville, California
- Major
- Politics
- Minor
- Environmental Science
Favorite thing about WU
I love the small school atmosphere and getting to know so many great people!
Favorite quote
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are poserful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us."
Animal that best describes your personality
A Golden Retriever & Siberian Husky mix because I am fun and energetic when I am around people I know, and then when I am put into a new environment with lots of cool new people, then I become super energetic and ready to to and have so many more new adventures!!
Justin Wetherell
- Year
- Senior
- Hometown
- Anchorage, Alaska
- Major
- Theatre
- Minor
- Psychology
Favorite thing about WU
I love seeing Blitz the Bearcat at all the events!
Favorite quote
"Build a man a fire, and he'll be warm for a day. Set a man on fire and he'll be warm for the rest of his life."
Animal that best describes your personality
I would be an otter because I have lots of energy, I love playing games and socializing, and I am a great swimmer!
Melissa White
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Waimea, Hawaii
- Major
- English
Favorite thing about WU
The people. Without all of the amazing, wonderful people at Willamette, it would not be another home for me.
Favorite quote
"Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming." - Dory (Finding Nemo)
Animal that best describes your personality
An owl. An owl because when necessary I can blend in and watch, but most times I am energetic; think Hoothoot from Pokemon (although I don't believe I am as wise as the famed owl is).
Eve Wiggins
- Year
- Sophomore
- Hometown
- Bainbridge Island, Washington
- Major
- undeclared
Favorite thing about WU
The kind and wonderful people here.
Favorite quote
"Think you've seen it all? Think again. Outside those doors, we might see anything. We could find new worlds, terrifying monsters, impossible things. And if you come with me ... nothing will ever be the same again!" - the Doctor
Animal that best describes your personality
A chimpanzee, because I love to learn, and sometimes I throw things when I get mad.
