Amy
Student, MA Philosophy
1. What do you like most about your course?
The thing I like most about studying philosophy is the content. There is a vast amount of western philosophy to get stuck into, and we are actively encouraged to follow our own interests to incorporate into our writing. It does not matter how obscure your line of enquiry goes, there is always access to books, journals, articles, or someone to discuss your ideas with! Open conversation about your ideas are always welcomed, and lecturers do take the time to harness and guide your enthusiasm in helpful directions. The freedom you are allowed educationally is second-to-none, and personally this type of educational environment allows me not only to navigate my studies, but myself and the world at large.
2. What made you choose Manchester Met?
I chose to study a MA at Manchester Met because the prospectus aligned with my areas of interest philosophically. It is all about the content taught for me, and the relationships I had already built previously at undergraduate level. I felt comfortable returning to Manchester Met to continue my study under an incredibly supportive department.
3. What were your lecturers like and how did they help you to succeed throughout your course?
I am only a few months into my MA study and the lectures have already been very supportive and reassuring. They encourage and prioritise one-to-ones, and I personally feel this is the best way to maintain your studies and develop in higher education with success. I am dyslexic, therefore sometimes struggle with academic writing. However, I do feel comfortable to approach the lecturers on essay feedback and they are always happy to set up meetings to discuss what is needed for me to improve my writing. My independent project tutor, Paul Giladi, always encouraged and directed my philosophical ideas in a manner that lead to me getting a 1:1 on this project. He was always curious to know more about my ideas and taught me how to communicate them and translate them into writing effectively.
4. What skills do you feel you have gained/developed during your studies at Manchester Met?
I have definitely gained and developed my critical thinking skills whilst studying philosophy. This has helped me not only approach my academic work more successfully, but it has helped me navigate the world around me. Personally, I am still figuring out what career I want or if I want one at all. Philosophy gives me the space to figure this out without imposing any boundaries and lets me improve on my writing skills, which is a passion of mine.