Name: Emilie Weiss
Year: Senior
Major: Journalism-Advertising
Hometown: San Rafael, CA
HC: What are some of your favorite things to do here in Eugene?
Emilie: Eugene is a special city in Oregon because you can easily get the city atmosphere, as well as the outdoors experience. I love attending the Saturday Markets, walking around downtown, hanging out at local coffee shops, and hiking local trails such as Spencer’s Butte and Mount Pisgah.
HC: What is one of your favorite “secret spots” that you’ve found during your time here?
Emilie: I am a lover of coffee and local small shops, so naturally I always look out for a new coffee shop or bakery to meet friends at or bring my homework to. Recently I have been going to Noisette Bakery downtown, which is perfect for any occasion and any time of the day.
HC: You’re a senior here at Oregon. Can you tell us about your decision to come here?
Emilie: Oregon was always in the back of my mind when applying and choosing schools. Being from California I had always assumed I would stay there for college, but once I came to UO for a tour, there was no going back. The beautiful brick buildings with trees all around made me realize I needed to escape California and experience a new state while I can, to try something new.
HC: You’re an advertising major, why did you choose that?
Emilie: I had always been interested in the School of Journalism and Communication. I started as a PR major but came to realize my creatively driven passions needed to be shown through my studies at UO, which went hand in hand with the advertising department. I could not be happier with my decision.
HC: What advice do you have for an incoming freshman who is about to start their time here at UO?
Emilie: Come to college with an open mind. You may ask as many people as you want about their college experience, but everyone is different. I had envisioned college to be something completely different than what it turned out to be, in the best way possible. Advice is great, but stick to your guns and do what you feel is right, not what everyone else thinks is right.
HC: What is one of your most memorable experiences here?
Emilie: Freshman year I spontaneously decided to check out the Outdoor Program trips. I was hungry for some adventure, and as a freshman, I didn’t have a car and the right people to take me on an excursion. I saw that there was a group going to climb Mt. Saint Helens. It took me a lot of courage to decide to go, and not knowing anyone in the group I was very nervous, but it turned out to be an experience I will never forget.