Student Success
Shiley School of Engineering
Next Port Stories: Will Merritt '26
Will Merritt
Pronouns: He/Him Major: Human Biology
Minor: Exercise Science
What are your plans for after graduation?
Seeking Continuing Education But Not Yet Enrolled
Participating in Post-Graduate Service
What is your title/role? Volunteer
What program are you serving with? Jesuit Volunteer Corps
Where will you be located? Alaska
What are you most excited about for your Next Port?
I am excited to work with the diverse population of folks who experience disabilities and increase access to the outdoors. I am also excited to live and serve in community with other newly grad volunteers in such a beautiful place! I hope I find the mountains, trails and waters of Juneau to be as majestic as they are in my mind.
What advice would you give to your first-year self?
Start studying for the MCAT, delete Instagram, and go climb Mt. Hood.
Was there a class, internship or experience that shaped your direction to your post-graduate plans?
I think being an RA with a mission guided mindset and intentional lifestyle guided me towards JVC.
Who at the University of Portland had the most impact on shaping your next step?
Dr. Laura Dyer has been a wonderful mentor and model of hard work and balance that I aspire to replicate every day
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