 When
Jason Oost ’05 entered Willamette, he didn’t want to
give up microscopes or paintbrushes, so he chose to pursue both
by majoring in studio art and biology. “Art is still academic
but it’s not studying and reading,” said Oost. “There’s
not a direct right or wrong answer with art.”
This double major and track athlete from Paulsbo, Wash., had to
perfect time management in order to fit in a social life with his
class work. Especially since studio art and biology are two of Willamette’s
most time-consuming majors, requiring four-hour classes and labs.
“I definitely need to have a calendar with my schedule written
out. I just feel more comfortable with the week if I know what needs
to be done.”
In addition to competing in the high jump, Oost is active with
intramural flag football and basketball teams in the fall. This
avid hiker also squeezes in time to go to the coast with his friends
or snowboard on Mt. Hood.
 While
the majority of seniors only have to complete one senior thesis,
Oost will have to complete two next year. The prospect of that much
work is something the junior would rather think about next year.
Oost says with a laugh, “I don’t know how that’s
going to work. I haven’t even thought about it yet.”
Taking one day at a time and staying organized is what has kept
Oost on top of his schoolwork. He has also taken summer school classes
and planned out each and every semester to fit in all the requirements
to graduate on time. When asked about his advice for other students
considering a second major, Oost suggests starting early.
“Get on it early. It would have made things much easier if
I knew freshman year what I was doing. They tell you, ‘You
have lots of time to figure out your major Don’t rush it.’
But you should decide. I didn’t decide that late but I can’t
imagine if I had decided any later.”
Oost may be a consummate planner, but his future plans remain
flexible. “Initially, I was taking biology to be pre-med.
I plan on taking the MCATS, but I’m not limiting myself only
to medical school.” This studio art/biology major may yet
find a career where he can pursue both his passions.
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