Philosophy Testimonials | School of History and Philosophy | SIU

My experience in the philosophy program at SIU has brought me face-to-face with some of academia’s most diligent, caring, and open-minded people. The students at SIU are friendly and supportive towards one another, the faculty never fail to make time to address the needs of their students, and the program as a whole is rich in pluralistic spirit. The pluralistic tradition in this department has given me the freedom to do academic work that is personally relevant to my life. For this reason, I believe that studying philosophy at SIU refines not only a student’s academic prowess, but also enriches their lives beyond the classroom. The wonderful people that makeup SIU Philosophy have earned my lifelong admiration and comradeship, and I am honored to be among the next generation of philosophers to come out of Southern Illinois.

If you're scared of something, people often suggest educating yourself about whatever you’re afraid of. For example, if you're afraid of spiders, you might want to learn what venomous ones look like in your area. But what if you're scared of everything? It is my anxious curiosity that led me to find the Philosophy program at SIU. The word "Philosophy" comes from the Greek word "Philosophia," which means "love of wisdom", and the Philosophy department here at SIU embodies this love of wisdom perfectly. The faculty and educators here are some of the most passionate and approachable individuals I've encountered as a non-traditional undergraduate student. I can almost feel the curiosity and excitement vibrating through Faner Hall as I walk to class. The philosophy program at SIU has helped me find greater peace with the world around me and is something I would encourage anyone with a love or fear of the unknown to explore.