World Philosophy Day
Dr. Michael Cholbi presents at World Philosophy Day
On November 17, the Philosophy Department hosted their first annual World Philosophy Day aimed to bring Cal Poly Pomona students, faculty, and alumni together to celebrate the unique discipline and ever-expanding field of philosophy. The one-day conference included guest lectures by former students and current faculty, panels on careers for philosophy majors, information about the philosophy major, and networking opportunities for students interested in legal careers.
Dr. Sharon Hilles, Dean of the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences, kicked off the conference with a few words on the advantages philosophy majors have in school and life. “Philosophy students are smarter, more knowledgeable about the world, speak and argue better than others,” Hilles shared. “These students make ethical and reasonable choices in life, which serves as testament to the life of the mind.”
Following Hilles’s opening remarks, Dale Turner, Philosophy Department Chair, and the department’s esteemed faculty members, Dr. Alex Madva, Dr. Cory Aragon, and Dr. David Adams as well as highly-acclaimed alumni discussed why students should pursue a degree in philosophy. By emulating the Polytechnic learn-by-doing philosophy, each Cal Poly Pomona philosophy student develops, as Madva explained, “the ability to think critically, analyze, and write clearly about complex topics while also challenging [their] own point of view.” In turn, the curriculum for philosophy tests and prepares students for post-graduation life.
The Alumni Career Panel furthered this notion by highlighting and commending the Philosophy department in steering them toward their current paths. Some said the major was challenging and it helped improve their intelligence. Others noted the faculty’s ability to see the potential in their students motivated them to explore new fields utilizing their philosophy background. In addition, the Ethics Bowl was repeatedly credited for the success of many alumni since it began on campus. It was also pointed out that philosophy students earn more and place better on tests such as the GRE and GMAT, which have given many students considerable advantages, especially those interested in law. In the end, both faculty and alumni agreed that the opportunities a degree in philosophy offers are limitless.
For those interested in pursuing a degree or minor in Philosophy, please email Philosophy Department Chair, Dale Turner.
Written by Jennifer Jimenez, Student Writer