CHASS Student of the Month – November 2008

Thomas Hughes

• Home Town: Winston-Salem, NC
• Class: Senior
• Major(s):
  • Philosophy
  • Minors: Cognitive Science; Music
• Sample Courses:
  • Metaphysics
  • Philosophy of Language
  • Ethics
  • Symbolic Logic
• Activities:
  • Lead guitar for local rock band: http://www.myspace.com/themercators
  • Summited Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, July 2007
  • Math tutor at Douglas Elementary School
  • NCSU Squash Club President, 2007-08
• Honors:
  • Philosophy Department Honors Program
  • Dean’s List, 2007-08
• Postgraduate Plans: Law school
• Career Goals: Probably the legal field, although I am open to possibilities.

Why did you choose CHASS?

I have always loved philosophy. My father was a philosophy major and I remember all the great conversations I had with him growing up. I am very attracted to philosophy’s analytical and rational way of thinking, and the professors here offer such a diversity of perspectives.

What do you enjoy most about being an NCSU student?

I enjoy having the opportunity to explore academic pursuits that might be otherwise unavailable. CHASS offers a wide variety of interesting courses taught by committed and accomplished faculty. It has provided me the opportunity to challenge myself in new ways, explore myself as an individual, and set goals to expand my intellectual growth. The faculty also have been very influential. Dr. John Carroll and Professor Steven Heiner have really been a guiding force, nurturing and furthering my propensity for philosophy.

What has been your greatest challenge here at NC State?

Integrating myself into the culture – it’s larger than anything I’ve been exposed to. (I transferred here from Greensboro College, which is smaller.) You have to make an effort to put yourself out there into the community and school, and join campus activities, for example.

How has college changed you?

I have met such a wide variety of people. I tend to be a more private person, but since being here, I have seen the benefits of reaching out more to others.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

Be organized. The sheer size of this university means you must be more independent, not rely on others as much to keep up.

Nominate a student for CHASS Student of the Month.