Hi everyone! I’m Amelia, and I’m an MA Political and Legal Philosophy student. I’m going to tell you all about my experience studying a Masters in philosophy at York.
My background as an undergraduate
When I was studying undergraduate law, my university held a law event where students could network. It was a chance to connect with lawyers and show the opportunities available. I got very upset and overwhelmed, but that’s totally okay! You’re allowed to feel overwhelmed or nervous about choosing a subject you’re passionate about. A lawyer I spoke to said: “You got in, you’re doing it, and you should be proud of that no matter what happens.” I graduated with a 2:1 in Law, two years later!
My Masters degree at York
I’m now studying MA Political and Legal Philosophy. Moving away from a straight Law subject has been a challenge, but the student support at York has been like no other. There is always someone to talk to if you’re struggling or need additional guidance, whether it’s a friend or academic from the Department of Philosophy or York Law School.
I chose a philosophy Masters because I wanted to know more about law theory, and the ethics of making legislation.
What I study and why I love the York approach
Overall, the variety of module choices really drew me to York. My favourite module at the moment is Topics in the Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence. It has opened my eyes to real problems in our future, how we can address them, and appreciate how discussions evolve and change. I chose it as I haven’t seen many universities provide either a module or even a course like this before, especially in philosophy. In all of my classes we have very open discussions about career paths after university, too. We talk about areas we don’t understand and the best way to learn more. Our classes can be tailored to what drives us as students. If someone comes in with some reading material that inspires them, that can inform how we approach the topics we’re covering.
We get to set our own exam questions! It’s amazing because it allows you to explore a topic in depth and feel confident taking it further, working towards end-of-term exams.
We get 1:1s with our seminar leaders. They’re great because they support you and guide you towards both your academic and career goals. They’re an opportunity to throw ideas around for written work, and a brilliant support during exam time.
Don’t limit yourself!
My classmates have different backgrounds. Some have come from undergraduate degrees, others are in careers in data, teaching and even fashion! Our course unites us and it shows that no matter what, we’re all in the same boat and can be there to support each other.
I chose a philosophy Masters because I wanted to know more about law theory, and the ethics of making legislation. It’s gone beyond my expectations and informed me about so much more. It’s made me consider careers outside the conventional lawyer or barrister route. I’m looking into legislation around digital media, contract management and other things, too!
I’ll leave you with this
A degree is always challenging, but you got in! You’re doing it, and you should be proud whatever happens. Trust the process. At York, someone is always there to help you. There are so many societies to get involved in that you’re guaranteed to make friends either on your course or outside of it. Try new hobbies, start conversations with people and make your uni experience count! I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about my experience studying a Masters in philosophy at York.
Bonus positive
The campus is the most beautiful I’ve seen. The lake, trees and all the ducks make you feel you’re in your own little world even though the city centre is so close. It’s the perfect place if you’re stressed and need to relax. Go for a walk and spot the wildlife!
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