We caught up with Hassan, who graduated with a Philosophy degree in 2023.
Please sum up the best thing about studying here?
Other than getting to see the Founder’s Building every morning, the best thing about studying here is meeting so many likeminded individuals both on the course and around campus.
What stands out for you now that you can reflect on your time here?
The chance to be able to exercise my independence for the first time. I’m grateful for the chance to smoothen my transition to adulthood while studying here and learning organisation and time management skills.
How did you find the staff and their teaching?
The staff has been incredibly helpful especially during a period of COVID restrictions where we would have a lot of reading material attached to the lectures for better understanding of the topic. They are also always available for help on assignments, assessments and general advice.
How would you describe your experience of being part of the department community?
It’s been brilliant belonging in a community of people with similar interests as you which makes the whole course more enjoyable and memorable. Having likeminded individuals by your side makes up for a fruitful and productive experience.
What was the most interesting thing you studied in your time here?
The most interesting thing about the course is the diversity of philosophical disciplines. Growing up, I firmly stayed within the boundaries of Western philosophy like analytic and continental. Since coming here, I have been exposed to other areas like Islamic philosophy and the Eastern philosophies like Buddhism which enriched my overall knowledge on the world.
How has your degree prepared you for your future career path?
Philosophy places a lot of emphasis on critical thinking, analytical skills, and an ability to communicate complex ideas. These various skills open doors to a lot of careers paths; mainly academia, law and politics. I plan on having a career in government and politics and Philosophy’s non-vocational aspects allows a lot of flexibility for me to apply it there.
What would you say future applicants keen to study?
It’s completely fine to not have a clue on what you want to do in the future, it’s the passion to learn more about Philosophy that counts. As long as you have the passion for reading and the willingness to learn different concepts, this is the perfect course for you. I can only end it with a quote from Socrates that perfectly explains why you should study Philosophy. “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
