A degree in philosophy is beneficial in helping students prepare for the sprawling variety of problems and issues they will likely encounter in the world after graduating. 

When did you graduate from VCU?

In 2012, with a B.A. in philosophy.

Where did your career path take you post graduation?

Since graduating, I served in the Navy Reserve for eight years and was also formerly an investment advisor for Merrill Lynch. I also received a Juris Doctor from New England Law, Boston, in 2020.

What is your current role?

Currently, I am legal counsel for the Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights and Inclusion for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. My work includes analysis of both the implicit and explicit systemic racial inequities, possible disproportionate outcomes and equal access to opportunities associated with general laws, budget proposals and policies that originate from the state legislature.

I also volunteer as an active non-public arbitrator for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

What is your take on how a philosophy degree prepares students for success in their future careers?

Regardless of where you land in terms of work after graduation, you will find that skills such as critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving are indispensable to any occupation. A degree in philosophy is beneficial in helping students prepare for the sprawling variety of problems and issues they will likely encounter in the world after graduating.

Too often, these problems require someone who can assess complex challenges and develop effective solutions while also being an effective communicator with different people from all walks of life.

Whether in finance, law, government, or the military, I can always rest assured that my degree in philosophy has prepared me for any obstacle that might come my way.