Why did you major in philosophy?
I was “undeclared” when I started at UNH and took all kinds of different liberal arts courses. Philosophy courses were my favorite. I enjoyed reading the texts, analyzing the arguments, and discussing the substance in class.
Interesting stuff you did as a UNH undergrad? Thesis, study abroad, favorite class, etc.
Apart from my studies, the highlight of my time at UNH was the social life. To this day some of my closest friends are the guys that I met on my floor in Christensen Hall freshman year.
What was your path after graduating from UNH Philosophy? What are you doing now?
After graduating from UNH, I attended law school at University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. After law school, I worked as an attorney in Boston for a while. Currently, I practice as a corporate attorney in Concord, New Hampshire. I help clients buy businesses, sell businesses, set up businesses, etc. When I’m not working, I’m working on parenting two young kids.
How has philosophy been valuable in your personal and professional life?
I attribute a lot of my professional success to my philosophy background. The skills required to excel in law school are essentially the same skills that are trained in philosophy courses. I found that I was well-equipped for law school – the subject of my studies had simply changed from philosophical texts (essays, articles, books, etc.) to legal texts (statutes, cases, regulations, etc.).
Any advice for students considering a philosophy major or graduating with a philosophy major?
Philosophy is different than studying in a field like engineering. If you study engineering, you can become an engineer (and likely will). If you study philosophy, you can become a philosopher (but likely will not). So, you should think about the major differently. It’s a major that will develop your reading, writing, and analytical abilities – but it will not train you for a specific occupation. Think ahead about how you can use those skills in a satisfying career.
Anything else you’d like to say in this venue?
If you’re considering philosophy as a major because you want to be a lawyer, go for it. If you enjoy studying philosophy, then I’d bet you will enjoy studying law too (I certainly did).
