Degree
UBC Philosophy BA ’12
Occupation
Reporter, Video Journalist, and Associate Producer
Biography
Growing up I never knew really knew what I wanted to do, but if someone happened to ask me what my dream job was, I would instinctively say ‘documentary filmmaker’. I’ve always been interested in exploring, meeting new people, and telling stories. When I finally realized I could do all of those things for a living as a journalist, I decided to dive head first into a career. Now I get to tell stories across multimedia platforms for CBC News.
When I trace back all of the fundamental qualities that have helped me succeed in journalism, I need look no further than my years studying philosophy. The discipline helped me to become more critical and open-minded. Its enabled me to see the world from varying points of view, and to always aspire towards finding truth. If there was ever a rule of thumb for being a good journalist, it would be the same two words that every philosopher lives by: question everything.
What advice would you offer current philosophy students thinking about career avenues?
Don’t limit yourself. So many people worry that a philosophy degree is a one-way ticket to the unemployment line — and that couldn’t be farther from the truth. It’s my firm belief that philosophy makes you better at everything else: logic, critical thinking, and open-mindedness are qualities that will help you succeed anywhere. Your philosophy degree is a stepping stone to get to where you want to go, not a road block. Chase down whatever it is you dream of doing, and let your ‘love of wisdom’ guide you along the way.
