Laura Nicola


 Laura Nicola When people ask me why I chose to major in Philosophy, knowing that my ultimate goal was to attend law school, I always say: “Law school may teach you how to think like a lawyer, but philosophy teaches you how to think.” Today, after a B.A. (with Honours) in Classical Studies and Philosophy, a M.A. in Philosophy, a law degree, and 9 years of post-secondary education under my belt, that statement still rings true. When I am told that Philosophy isn’t “practical”  - I beg to differ. Let me debunk some stereotypes for you… In order to succeed in law school you will need to learn how to read well, applying logic to manipulate the information you have absorbed in the most effective way possible. Philosophy will teach you exactly how to do so, while helping you develop “new and improved” critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The affinity between Philosophy and Law is so profound that you will often find yourself thinking about the ethical, political, epistemological, and social implications of a newly passed bill or Supreme Court decision - sometimes even years after completing your Philosophy degree. This approach to rules, regulations and - quite frankly - life itself, will indubitably provide you with the intellectual and moral resources to thrive in a number of professions.