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The University of Southampton
PhilosophyPart of HumanitiesUndergraduate study

James Parson Philosophy, 2014

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Hi, I'm James Parson and I studied within Philosophy at the University of Southampton.

What I really love about Philosophy is the fact that it is such a diverse and dynamic subject. Each semester we’re presented with challenging and interesting modules which force you to rethink even the most basic ideas you have always thought to be true.

What do you enjoy about the course?
What I really love about Philosophy is the fact that it is such a diverse and dynamic subject. Each semester we’re presented with challenging and interesting modules which force you to rethink even the most basic ideas you have always thought to be true. Also, the enthusiasm of teaching that the lecturers provide is second to none with Philosophy ― the fact that I originally started studying Geography at Southampton, but switched to Philosophy (after I experienced an elective module) testifies to this!

What is Southampton like as a place to study?

Southampton is a fantastic place to study. I remember having to choose between a few universities when I was at school, and the reason I chose Southampton above them was not only due to their great reputation, but due to the lovely green campus and friendly attitude of the people I met on the Open Day.

Tell us about your career aspirations
At present, I’m fairly set on pursuing a career as a lawyer ― specifically, as a commercial solicitor. I’ve been fortunate enough over the last few months to have had quite a few Open Days at various City law firms both in Southampton and in London, and I’ve been greatly interested in the work that they do. Furthermore, I’ve been lucky enough to have secured two weeks of work experience over this summer in commercial law firms which will hopefully confirm that being a solicitor is the right path for me.

How do you think your course will help you in your chosen role?

Philosophy, in my opinion, is a greatly undervalued degree in terms of future careers. While I appreciate it is not quite the same as a degree in Medicine, it nonetheless gives you a fantastic array of skills which will help in many careers. For example, two of the key skills law firms are looking for is an eye for detail and an ability to evaluate arguments. These skills lend themselves directly to Philosophy, as you’re having to explain and evaluate difficult Philosophical arguments. Many of the partners at law firms I have spoken to say that they love Philosophy students!

What advice would you give to a student starting their degree at Southampton?
The advice I would give to a student starting their degree at Southampton is to, firstly, immerse yourself as much as possible into university life. Get stuck into all manner of clubs and societies ― you’ve got nothing to lose and absolutely everything to gain! Secondly, I remember the few weeks before I started university I was fairly nervous about settling in into halls, however, literally after the first week I had made great friends with my corridor and a nearby corridor too ― I’m living with five of them now!

 

 

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