Hi, I'm Lukas, a sophomore from New York City majoring in Economics with minors in Philosophy and Fine Arts. I came to GW planning to study business, but ended up falling in love with ceramics and philosophy along the way — proof that this school will surprise you if you let it. When I'm not in class, you can find me people-watching at Kogan Plaza, making pottery in the Flagg Building, or dancing salsa somewhere in the city.

Hometown

New York, New York

Major(s)

Economics, Philosophy

Minor(s)

Fine Arts

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Finance Officer, GW Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Journalist, GW Hatchet Member, Capitol Letter Magazine Member, GW Undergraduate Economics Society

Describe your college experience

My transition was very smooth. At orientation I was able to connect with many people so when I started classes and dorming I had many friendly faces. Also, as someone coming from NYC, it was nice to be in a city but one that was much less intense. My experience has been very positive with excellent professors, friends I am still in contact with and course content that interests me.

Tip for future students

To take advantage of GW's liberal arts education to the fullest. GW offers so many cool classes that it would be silly to confine yourself to one practice when you could learn and explore from so many kinds of courses and professors and students you wouldn't otherwise meet if you hadn't taken that course. For me, that is taking Hand-built ceramics, which has inspired me to pursue a fine arts minor. On top of that, if I hadn't taken Buddhism and Cognitive Science last semester I would not be pursuing a philosophy degree as well. Another tip I would give is keeping your notes organized and thorough so that studying and going back through them is easy. I highly recommend the Cornell note-taking system.

Favorite class

Cognitive Science & Buddhism was a fascinating class because of how much intersection there was between the two. Both topics were new to me but the professor was able to blend them in an interesting and digestible way. I also believe I am a better person after taking this class because I was able to apply the ideas learned (compassion, patience, etc.) into my life.

Career goals

I hope to work for a social business. My internship with the Yunus Centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh showed me the world of social business and I believe it is the most ethical way to run a business. I hope I can combine my education to make a meaningful impact in the world of business.

Ideal way to spend a free night

If I have a free night, I like to go to my friends' dorm and cook for them, or go to the ceramics studio and work on a project, or if it's the weekend I might go dancing at dance club that plays Latin music---I love to dance salsa!

High school or secondary school

The Beacon School

Favorite spot on campus

I have lots of little spots that I like, but my favorite has to be Kogan because it has the best people watching, its near the library if you need to duck in for some focused work, and the District food court is right there if you need a snack! I also love to hang out and make art in the old Corcoran Museum or what is now the Flagg Building. Its such a beautiful building and so cool that I can make ceramics there in my free time!