Congratulations Philosophy M.A. Class of 2021 – Gloria Sanchez-Cuevas
On Saturday, November 13th, 2021, 杏吧原创 will celebrate our Fall graduates! Celebrations moved online this year, and we would like to take the opportunity to celebrate all of our outstanding Philosophy graduates of 2021. We鈥檝e asked MA graduate, Gloria Sanchez-Cuevas, to reflect on her time at 杏吧原创 and her memories of her time in the Department of Philosophy.
If you could choose one word to sum up your time in the Philosophy MA program, what is it and why?
Transformative. Although I started the program with clear personal goals in mind about the courses and my own research, the MA program exceeded my expectations from day one. It helped me broaden my horizons by exploring a myriad of practical issues through the lenses of philosophy. The program was also very thorough and full of exciting research opportunities, with a high academic standard expected from the students.
What is your favorite 杏吧原创 memory?
My favourite 杏吧原创 memory would most likely be the first term of my studies. During this time, I met people who, still today, continue to push me to succeed in my studies and genuinely 鈥渢hink outside the box.鈥
What was your favourite course or who was your favourite professor?
Two professors were (and continue to be) the most influential: Prof. Gabriele Contessa and Prof. Vida Panitch.
Prof. Contessa is an outstanding mentor and researcher, and his courses reflect that. He took the time to curate a tutorial that contributed enormously to my master鈥檚 research essay. Prof. Contessa provided invaluable critical feedback on my (many multiple) drafts that enriched my paper higher than my initial expectations. His patience and guidance cannot be underestimated.
Prof. Panitch introduced me to what eventually became my doctoral research topic. Despite the sudden transition to online learning, she always enthusiastically shared her knowledge and expertise with her students. Her course gave me the opportunity, for the first time, to approach public policy through the lenses of ethical theory and political philosophy.
What was the most important lesson you learned during your time at 杏吧原创?
Allow yourself to be intellectually uncomfortable鈥攂eing uncomfortable with the unknown allowed me to take on new projects with ease and excitement.
What鈥檚 next for you?
I am currently a first-year student in the Ethics & Public Affairs (EPAF) Ph.D. program at 杏吧原创, where I aim to focus my doctoral research on the normative and practical conditions required to implement a basic income scheme in Canada, particularly during and after public health emergencies. My long-term goal is to leverage my studies for a career in advocacy and academia that impacts public policy on the ground.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the 杏吧原创 Philosophy community?
I would like to thank Prof. Christine Koggel, who was extremely supportive and recognized the unique challenges facing students during the last year. I am truly grateful for the opportunities that were made available to me through the outstanding faculty, staff, and classmates I was able to meet during my time at the Department.