Program while at Windsor: MA Philosophy
Graduating Year: 2012
Current Life Project: PhD in Cognitive Science
Q: How has philosophy helped you in your everyday life?
A: Philosophy has enabled me with critical thinking tools that I apply (for the better or worst) in my day-to-day life. It has challenged me to think more deeply about (my) life, and I believe it has contributed to a great personal satisfaction.
Q: How has philosophy helped you in your career?
A: My philosophy degree from the University of Windsor has directly impacted my decision to pursue a doctorate, and eventually a professorship in a philosophy department.
Q: What about the University of Windsor Philosophy Department stood out to you the most?
A: I find it difficult to single out particular instances which made Windsor an enjoyable experience. I loved my experience with all the staff and faculty at the University, and I look back very nostalgically at my time spent there.
Q: Were you an active part of the community here? If so, how, and why was this valuable?
A: I was a part of a voluntary program called the Peer Support Network, which operated as an arm of victim services for youths in crises. I was also a volunteer at the Multicultural Centre in Windsor East where I assisted immigrant youths making the transition into Canadian culture. I was also a member of the art and music community, facilitating various arts shows throughout the city by coordinating with artists and venues.
Q: Why would you recommend studying philosophy at the University of Windsor?
A; I would recommend Windsor for several reasons. First, I believe that the size of the department fosters a very intimate and personal connection between the faculty and staff on the one hand, and the subject matter on the other. Secondly, I also believe that the department, despite its size, represents a huge range of diverse interests and specializations. Finally, I would recommend Windsor because I believe it gives serious students of philosophy a competitive edge.
Q: Being out of the cave, do you wish you could go back in? Is it too bright outside?
A: I’ve abandoned the pursuit of Truth in favour of pursuing truth. Studying philosophy at Windsor gave me necessary and sufficient tools to pursue an academic career in the cognitive sciences. I am indebted to the numerous professors and staff members that have challenged and encouraged me to become the person I am today—both as a researcher and pedagogue. Formative events include my participation at the Centre for Research in Reasoning, Argumentation, and Rhetoric (CRRAR), my participation in Ontario Society for the Study of Argumentation (OSSA) and the complementary summer school. Included was the opportunity to finish my MA at a summer school in Latvia researching the literal/figurative distinction in relation to semantics/pragmatics interface.