QuickTakes Q&A ~

Please share a brief Bio:

My name is Lauren Kerr. I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and graduated from UP in 2020 with a degree in Economics and a minor in Sustainability.

At UP, I loved being involved on campus—serving as President of Alpha Kappa Psi, leading campus tours, and running Espresso UP.

I studied abroad in Salzburg, Austria, where I planned events like the program’s Thanksgiving dinner (which unexpectedly involved cooking seven turkeys!).

Why did you select University of Portland for your degree program?

I was drawn to small- to mid-sized Catholic schools and was looking for a strong econ program, a year-long study abroad opportunity, and vibrant student life. After visiting UP my senior year of high school, it immediately felt like home.

I also liked how all business students start as Undeclared and only declare a major after taking the intro class for each major. This made me feel more confident in my decision.

I also sat in on an econ class during my campus visit, which helped seal the deal—I could see that the professor cared and how the students were engaged.

What are you doing now since graduating from UP?

I live in Portland with my mini Aussie, Pepper, and work at Portland General Electric where I manage PGE’s Strategic Innovation portfolio. In my job, I collaborate across the company to identify challenges and demonstrate emerging technologies that support our transition to a clean energy future.

I had no idea this job existed when I chose my major, but UP’s courses on systems thinking, innovation, and sustainability- as well as support from faculty and professors- set me on the path to develop the skills and interests that have steered me in my career.

I am also on the board of WRISE, a professional group for women in energy, where I organize events like panel discussions on decarbonization, ice cream socials, and yoga classes for my community. 

What advice would you give to someone considering studying Business at UP?

You get out what you put in. Make the most of college’s unique opportunity to focus on learning—speak up in class, build relationships with professors, and connect with your peers. The more you lean in, the more prepared and supported you’ll feel for what comes next.