Anna Maconochie (2001 Graduate)

Tell us about yourself! What did you study during your time with us, and what are you currently doing?

I am writing fiction, making art and working part-time.

In what ways has studying Philosophy influenced your professional life or shaped your career path?

It has made me feel confident in analysing and thinking through complex situations and arguments. It has also made me very open-minded about taking non-traditional life paths.

How has your Philosophy background set you apart in your field or helped you approach challenges differently

It has made me a more dynamic and conceptual writer. I also feel able to read ANY document thrown at me as nothing is ever as difficult as Kant!

What advice would you give to current or prospective students who are passionate about Philosophy but unsure how it might support their future career?

Go for it! The 21st job market is so uncertain you may as well follow your passion. Philosophy will provide a base for absolutely any career and you can always do a follow up degree in STEM, teaching or law if you feel the absolute necessity. If you want to pursue a creative path, it will serve you better than art school or English degrees as these degrees are full of cod-Philosophy anyway.

What’s one of your fondest memories from your time studying with us?

Hanging out in the Shaw Library.