Pacific University

News and Stories | Senior Projects

From Forest Grove To Researching The Mysteries Of The Universe

As Logan Switzer ’25 progressed in his educational career at Pacific University, an interest in particle physics and space sucked him in like a black hole. After a prestigious internship at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, the recent graduate is looking to grad school and a career in astrophysics.

Valentina Casab-Klescova '25 smelling a flower.

Green Building For Cleaner Air & A Cleaner World

Valentina Casab-Klescova '25 hopes that her Pacific education and interest in sustainability will lead to a career making cities greener and healthier for growing populations.

Katelyn Ker '25 on set filming her documentary.

From Dancer to Director: Student Filmmaker Captures the Challenges of a Dance Career

Even if she wasn't performing professionally, Ker always intended to stay connected to dance. Through her coursework and her experience as part of the Pacific Dance Ensemble, she discovered a passion for dance photography and videography. "A Way of Walking" effectively merges Ker's love for dance and storytelling, honoring both artistic disciplines.

Fine Art or Commercial: Student Project Explores New Angle on Manga's Artistic Value

What separates "high" art from "low"? In his senior capstone, “Reclaiming Manga Aesthetics,” Justyn Lee ’25 explores Manga through an artistic lens. A double major in Japanese and art at Pacific University, Lee was inspired by his time studying in Japan. His project challenges the perception of Manga as merely a commercial product, calling for greater recognition of its aesthetic value and deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind the medium.

Researching Better Ways to Clean Up Oil Spills

Participating in undergraduate research at Pacific gave Opfer the chance to dive deeper into real-life applications of his studies.

Kelsi Roth ’19 Sharpens Her Focus as a Writer

A creative writing major, Roth has tackled difficult subjects in her original works. “I hope that it opens up people’s minds and I hope that it makes people laugh,” said Roth, who says she employs “dark humor” to deal with sensitive subjects.

Undergrad Chemistry Research Leads to PhD Pursuit

Keilian MacCulloch '19 fell in love with chemistry at Pacific University. After conducting research in the lab, he hopes to earn a PhD and spend his career in chemistry.

Jamie Anderson '18 Puts Music to Work in Education

Writing music gives youth opportunity to create and connect.

More Than a Lullaby: Music Therapy in Action

Music therapy major Andrea Eitner '17 explores the uses of music therapy in the NICU — and finds a career aspiration.

Brewing Up an Experiment in the Lab

Food chemistry has an appeal to almost everyone, says Breanna Miranda ‘16.

Music to Their Ears

Computer science and music offer the best of both worlds.