Awards

APPLY THROUGH ACADEMIC WORKS

The Philosophy Department will now conduct his scholarship application process through the new award management system. Academic Works. Please take a moment to sign up for Academic Works using the instructions attached to the link: https://ccny.academicworks.com/users/sign_in

Once you have created your account, make sure to complete and submit all questions on the General Application, which will automatically pull your CUNYFirst information and match you to scholarships for which you are eligible. Then complete an application for each Philosophy Department scholarships that interests you.

NEW MAJOR SCHOLARSHIPS

We offer $1000 scholarships to students who have recently declared philosophy majors. Submit a 300-word essay about why you chose to major in philosophy and how $1000 would help you on your path to your degree. You must include your name, EMPLID, and the date you declared your major in the essay. Applications are due by 5PM February 25. You are eligible to apply if you declared your philosophy major anytime in the 12 months prior to February 25. The number of scholarships available annually depends on available funding. Scholarships may be paid as stipends. Students can only receive this scholarship once.

ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

We offer $2500 scholarships to philosophy majors who earn high grades and are partway through the major. Applications are due by February 25 at 5PM. You are eligible to apply if:

(a) you have completed at least 12 credits/4 classes of major coursework by February 25,

and

(b) you had completed fewer than 12 credits/4 classes of major coursework by February 25 of the previous year.

In Academic Works, indicate that you are applying for an Achievement Award, and attach an unofficial transcript. The majors with the highest GPA will receive $2500 each. The number of scholarships available annually depends on available funding. Scholarships may be paid as stipends. Students can only receive this scholarship once.

DEPARTMENT LIFE SCHOLARSHIPS

These $2500 scholarships recognize students who make significant contributions to the Philosophy Department community, such as organizing or actively participating in Philosophy Club or Philosophy Pizza Forum events. Faculty members nominate students for these scholarships. The number of scholarships available annually depends on available funding. Scholarships may be paid as stipends.

 

Achievement and Department Life Award Winners

 

Crystal Abreu Canela 2026

My name is Crystal Abreu Canela and I am double-majoring in International Studies and 
Philosophy. Originally, I entered the City College of New York as a Bilingual Education major 
and because of this I had not taken any philosophy courses until I decided to change my 
academic path. I had always been interested in philosophy, a majority of it being Buddhist 
philosophy, so it only took about 5 classes for me to realize that I wanted to dedicate myself to 
the discipline. I hope that through my studies I can deepen my understanding of different 
worldviews, challenge my own assumptions, and ultimately use what I learn to engage 
thoughtfully with issues of justice, identity, and global interconnectedness.

 

Sofía López Chicas 2026

Sofía López Chicas is a philosophy and political science student minoring in legal studies at The City College of New York. She is drawn to the questions that live beneath the surface of ordinary life, questions about what it means to live with integrity, how people make sense of their experiences, and why we continue searching for meaning even when the world feels uncertain. Philosophy gives a language to the wonder and curiosity she has always carried and reminds her that the desire to understand is part of a much older human story.

Studying philosophy has opened a space for her to think about the nature of reality, the weight of moral responsibility, the fragility of meaning, and the strange fact that we share a world with others whose lives are both familiar and unknowable. Her love for philosophy grows from a sense of shared searching and the feeling that inquiry itself can be a form of care, a way of paying attention to the fragile and complicated lives we lead.

Outside her studies, Sofía finds joy in reading, music, long walks, and art, practices that help her stay grounded and attentive to the small moments that reveal what it means to be alive.

 

Keria Emptage 2026

My name is Keria Emptage, and I am currently a junior at City College pursuing a double major in Philosophy and Biology. I am originally from Guyana, but I have spent most of my life living in New York. Growing up in such a diverse environment has shaped the way I think about the world and the people around me. Throughout my college journey, I spent a lot of time searching for something that would engage me on a deeper, more personal level. I eventually found that connection through philosophy. I enjoy using philosophy as a tool to better understand the world around me. Living in a place as diverse as New York has shown me how important it is to understand different perspectives. To me, learning about others and their experiences is an important step toward building empathy and living a more meaningful life.

 

Tochi Evoh 2026

My name is Tochi Evoh, and I am a junior at The City College of New York planning to walk in 
Spring 2027. My journey to philosophy has been one of discovery, courage, and faith. When I 
first entered college, I did not even know philosophy was a major, but sometimes your calling 
finds you before you know how to name it. After taking my first philosophy class, something in 
me lit up. A talent I did not know I had was uncovered, and that spark has never burned out.
 
Choosing philosophy was a risk worth taking. As a young woman of color in this field, I stepped 
into a path that not many choose, but one that has shaped me intellectually, spiritually, and 
personally. I am now pursuing a Philosophy major with minors in Biology and Chemistry, and 
this interdisciplinary combination has strengthened the way I think, analyze, and understand the 
world. Philosophy has sharpened my ability to dissect arguments, read deeply, and engage with 
complex ideas. These skills also enrich the way I study Scripture and approach my pre med 
coursework. 

My relationship with Jesus is at the center of who I am. My faith has empowered me to try new 
things, embrace challenges, and fall in love with different branches of philosophy. Reading my 
Bible, reflecting on its teachings, and exploring philosophical texts side by side has given me a 
unique lens for understanding ethics, reasoning, and the human experience. Philosophy has not 
only expanded my academic world but has deepened my spiritual one. 

Outside the classroom, I love kayaking, cooking, baking, singing, and spending quiet time 
reading my Bible. I am passionate about learning, exploring new ideas, and growing into the 
person God is shaping me to be. Philosophy has taught me that when you feel a genuine 
passion for something, it becomes your responsibility to follow it and see where it leads. For me, 
that path has led to a discipline that challenges me, inspires me, and continues to reveal new 
parts of myself.

 

Alexis Solano-Flores 2026

Alexis Solano-Flores is a passionate aspiring philosopher who seeks to capture the world through 
a unique and thought-provoking lens. With a deep appreciation for the power of knowledge and 
their attempts to convey possible meanings of different fields. Alexis intertwines their pursuit of 
a philosophy degree with their artistic work, aiming to bring new perspectives to life through 
photography. Even more so, apply the skills gained to put into their Automotive Technology 
Degree, allowing them to guide creativity to defined solutions in the complex field where they 
are never certain what’s to come. Dedicated to continuous growth, they actively engage in 
projects that challenge and expand their creative vision, aspiring to elevate their craft to a 
professional level. Beyond their artistic endeavors, Alexis finds meaningful connections and 
enriches both their work and the world around them. Hoping to shine light on proving 
philosophy could be combined not only through literature and subjects of the different STEM 
fields but also through an artistic lens.

 

Tatia Mazmanian 2026

Tatia Mazmanian is finishing her BA in Philosophy at City College — she came in as a film 
student, picked up philosophy as a minor, then a second major, pulled along by the questions and 
by the professors who made those questions urgent and alive. 

Film and philosophy have always felt like the same project to her: both involve returning to the 
world and asking what we might have overlooked the first time. 

Her interests span phenomenology and value theory — particularly aesthetics and ethics — 
areas that keep converging around questions of experience, perception, and judgment. She 
continues working in film alongside her studies, letting the two inform each other.

 

Ishika Nawar 2026

Ishika Nawar is a Macaulay Honors junior on the Pre-Law track, majoring in Philosophy, 
Economics, and Political Science. She aspires to work at the intersection of law, policy, and 
academia, with a particular interest in immigration law and constitutional law.  

Ishika has engaged in various academic, professional, and extracurricular activities to serve 
marginalized communities. Her past public service endeavors include internships at New York 
Lawyers for the Public Interest, Human Rights First, NYC Commission on Human Rights, and 
New York City Council. At City College, Ishika is the President of CCNY Pre-Law Club, a 
Teaching Assistant for PHIL20100: Logical Reasoning, a Moynihan Public Service Fellow, and 
an Economics Research Mentors Fellow. She is also an Emerging Fellow at the Roosevelt 
Institute. 

 

Marcus Lopez Pierre 2026

Marcus Lopez Pierre is a third-year political science and philosophy major at CUNY City College. Intending to graduate 
in Fall 2026 and enroll in law school in Fall 2027. Worked as a licensed real estate salesperson 
since 2023, specializing in providing housing for low-income housing voucher holders.

 

Sachem Torres 2026

Sachem Torres (they/them) is a senior undergraduate student from the Bronx, graduating with a double major in history and philosophy. Recently a Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellow, they intend to pursue a PhD in the humanities and complete their thesis soon. Their thesis explores concepts of human universalism exemplified in the history of African American Odd Fellowship in New York City. Historically, these concepts have united various communities through public events such as masquerades. Yet, associating with public interests caused tension from within, concerning the values of religious and individual freedom. 

 

Eman Sadiq 2026

Eman Sadiq (she/her) is a sophomore in CCNY’s Macaulay Honors College, majoring in comparative 
literature and philosophy with minors in history and mathematics. Among her academic interests are 
ancient and medieval history and philosophy, aesthetics, and literary theory. A lifelong resident of 
Brooklyn, Eman can often be found strolling the boardwalk in her hometown of Brighton Beach; 
otherwise, she spends her free time baking and reading books about American history. Eman aims to 
graduate in spring 2028 and in the meantime hopes to continue exploring the rich intersection of 
philosophy, history, and language. 

 

Zura Bartishvili 2025

My name is Zura Bartishvili, I live in Queens and I am a double major in philosophy and anthropology at The City College of New York. I am in my senior year and will be graduating in the spring of 2025. But my journey to get to this point has been a journey of self-discovery as much as it has been about learning and academics. I started my college career in 2019 as a physics major but soon realized that that wasn’t the right path for me. I decided to put my academics on pause for some time and reconsider where my interests truly lay. When I reenrolled in classes in 2021, I decided to switch my major to anthropology. In the following year, I added philosophy as my second major after taking an Intro to Philosophy class, which I thoroughly enjoyed. When I was deciding which major to pick as my second, I had to consider which major was interesting and would also complement my studies in anthropology. I decided on philosophy and while there is not much direct overlap between these two disciplines I felt that studying them in conjunction gave a stronger foundation for critical thinking, a more well-rounded way for me to develop my own thoughts, and a generally better understanding of the world around me. My specific interests in philosophy are epistemology, the philosophy of language, political philosophy, and metaphysics. After graduation, I plan on pursuing a teaching and cultural exchange program in Spain (NALCAP) from which I hope to begin a career in teaching and share my passion for learning with others. In my free time, I like to read, learn new languages, and travel.

Niladriz Chakraborty 2025

As a dual philosophy and physics major, I have gained a great many insights into our world through academia. From debating ethics to befuddling over complex manifolds, these studies intertwine rather harmoniously. My name is Niladriz, and I have been studying knowledge and the universe during my stay at CCNY. My curiosities stretch back to my younger years where a bored 9-year-old would stare at maps and graphs all day, which made me question things about both people and phenomenon. Why do we fight over religion and politics? How did we figure out how far away our Sun is? Philosophy tackles the why, and physics beautifully explains the how, and from both I can sleep at night with one question answered and three new ones for the next day. Initially, I had entered college with next to no idea on what to pursue. I had picked a STEM discipline without much secondary thought, and whilst I thoroughly enjoyed these courses, I had an extra itch that these courses failed to scratch. It was only when I took a philosophy of AI course that I felt this bridge connect between technology and morality. Today I have taken a broad range of philosophy courses, from Buddhism to Aesthetics, and I do not plan on slowing down even after college.

Jalyn Chiclana 2025

My name is Jalyn Chiclana, and I’m a junior attending the City College of New York with a double major in Journalism and Philosophy. I had taken an intro to Philosophy course at a previous college I attended, and was mildly interested, but never pursued the subject beyond that. However, after taking Prof. Crull’s class “God and Science” in the 2024 fall semester, I fell in love with the subject. Although all facets of philosophy interest me, I am particularly intrigued in philosophy’s relation to religion and politics, especially where it concerns the examination of the systemic oppression of women, people of color, and the lower class. This exhibits itself in my love of reading Simone Weil and Angela Davis’ writings. However, I still have a long way to go in terms of enriching myself with the vast amount of knowledge the field of philosophy can grant me. In my spare time I enjoy exercising, playing video games, buying vintage clothing, reading, and taking naps. 

Joseph (Joey) De Luca 2025

Hello! My name is Joseph (Joey) De Luca and I am currently pursuing a dual bachelor's degree in Philosophy and Anthropology. Prior to this, I studied Music Production at a university in my home state of Oklahoma, but I find more enjoyment from music as a personal passion rather than a career. After moving to New York, I became interested in exploring challenges and critiques that Philosophy posed to the environment and systems I grew up in. This led me to the Philosophy Department at City College, where I have been able to develop my skill within this discipline and explore how I can make a difference in the world. While hearing the different responses to the challenges and critiques about the current systems of our society, I found the discipline of Anthropology helpful to my understanding of how the systems effect the people within them. After completing my undergraduate degrees, I plan on pursuing a doctoral degree so I can become a professor at a university to help future students like me find their place in the world, while doing research in topics that interest me. 

Malick Dieng 2025

I am a dual major in Philosophy and Economics with a dual minor in Mathematics and Theatre. When I first began my college journey, philosophy was not something I had ever imagined taking an interest in. I had only a passing knowledge of what philosophy entailed, never realizing the vast depth of knowledge it truly holds. However, from the moment I took my first philosophy course, I was captivated. I quickly became enamored with the subject, unable to resist delving deeper into its complexities. I have always enjoyed pondering big questions—why am I the way I am? Am I truly the source of my actions? What does it mean to be a good person? Philosophy has allowed me to explore these inquiries on a much deeper level. I am forever grateful to have found this discipline, as it has opened my eyes to a whole new world of ideas and introduced me to some truly spectacular people.

Raimelis Garcia 2025

I am Raimelis Garcia, a philosophy and biology major with a minor in psychology. My love for having conversations and debating about anything with friends and family has always been present, as well as questioning everything around of course. My exposure to philosophy began in high school when I came across a Plato quote that fascinated me and led me to explore the works of Aristotle, Socrates, and Euclid.  I always wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, thus a STEM major would have been more practical, however, I couldn’t ignore my growing fascination with philosophy. A favorite English teacher once mentioned that philosophy majors tend to excel on exams like the MCAT, LSAT, and GRE due to their strong critical thinking skills. That became my perfect excuse to double major in Biology and Philosophy. This combination has been strengthening my reasoning while fueling my passion for both science and big ideas. I enjoy reading fiction, poetry, and personal development books, as well as learning new languages by immersing myself in different cultures through movies, TV shows, and conversations. I am eager to use my learned skills and continue to grow with what is ahead.

Aaron Kim 2025

My name is Aaron Kim, and I am a second year. I am a CUNY BA student, and my home college is Hunter College. With the CUNY BA program I was able to come to the City College of New York campus and take classes freely while exploring my Area of Concentration. Through this exploration I found myself being involved more and more at CCNY as I felt connected to the philosophy program. I became an eboard member for the Philosophy Club and have continued to take classes at CCNY for most of my academic career. My focus is on philosophy of science, metaphysics, and psychology and the classes that are offered at CCNY fit those interests perfectly. I am also a part of the CUNY BA SLC and have become a student ambassador for the CCNY campus for the CUNY BA program. Outside of school I write scripts, voice act, and rock climb. I am also looking for a good story to write and I love being a part of creative projects.

Hannah Min 2025

Hannah is a junior at the Macaulay Honors College at City College. She is majoring in Sociology with a minor in health justice on the pre-med track. She is a founding member of the Philosophy Club and is the current treasurer. She was introduced to philosophy through the course, Biomedical Ethics and Pizza Forum. The community she found was open and passionate about theories that she grew to love and understand. She aims to connect her passion for philosophy with her medical interests by striving to be philosophically conscientious as she practices in the future.

Gabriel Navarrete 2025

Hello all, my name is Gabriel Navarrete, and I’m a Philosophy Major at CCNY. I entered
college with a single-minded focus: to become a physician. Science seemed like the only path to medical school, and I was determined to follow it. But one day, Chad Kidd walked into my Intro to Philosophy lecture and delivered a speech titled, “Why You Should Become a Philosophy Major.” He spoke about the professional development, academic rigor, and the profound self-awareness that philosophy cultivates. Intrigued but determined to stick with biochemistry, I brushed off his words. However, the thought lingered. Months later, I enrolled in a Bioethics course, a decision that changed everything. In that classroom, I discovered that being a physician wasn’t just about mastering science; it was about understanding the ethical responsibilities and the imperative to do no harm. This realization shifted my perspective on education. College, I learned, isn’t just about ticking off boxes; it’s about pursuing what you’re truly passionate about. Now, as a Philosophy major, I’m committed to exploring the deep ethical questions that shape our world and future.

Raphael S. Greenleaf 2025

My name is Raphael S. Greenleaf. As a double major in political science and philosophy, I had transferred to CCNY to further develop my studies in these fields. I had soon discovered that it boasts some of the most passionate professors. The faculty—especially in the philosophy department—exhibit a level of knowledge that I believe any student should experience. Not only have they provided me with the strong foundation I needed to expand my comprehension of philosophical schools of thought, but I have also applied these notions of ethics in conjunction with my second major. As I intend to pursue law school following my undergraduate studies, I have discovered that college is more than what it may seem to be initially. The endeavors one undertakes to understand their true potential have the same qualities of discovery that are reflective of philosophy. My experiences with peers and staff are lasting and would not have contributed to my work without their magnitude. Throughout high school I had committed myself to public service and developing legal precedent while working in programs with the NYPD and Queens District Attorney's Office. As I seek to continue these civic efforts in my undergraduate studies and subsequently law school, I have found it critical to find my resolve and passion in life. In that regard, policy and law are the frontiers that I believe should grow in tandem with society, and I seek to maintain a strong legal precedent and continue its ethical development. It is with this goal in mind that I continue to expand the scope of studies, in the hopes of achieving them.

Carlos Rodriguez Cobar 2025

My name is Carlos Rodriguez Cobar, and I am a double major in Philosophy and Economics. Philosophy has provided me with the opportunity to engage in the kind of deep questioning I have always been drawn to. From a young age, I found myself questioning everything, particularly authority and the social conventions that are usually accepted without hesitation. Upon arriving at CCNY, I pursued my passion for economics and declared it as my major. However, as I progressed in my studies, I found myself returning to fundamental questions about meaning, significance, and convention. Why does the status quo remain static? While innovation is evident in some areas, many aspects of society have remained unchanged for years. These questions ignited an urgent desire to find a way to channel my curiosity. Enrolling in an introductory philosophy course offered me a glimpse of the solution: a discipline equipped with the tools to dissect and analyze meaning: philosophy. Now, as a philosophy major, I am gaining the intellectual tools to continue my journey as an aspiring thinker, scholar, and economist with a deep commitment to public policy. Philosophy has deepened my understanding of complex ideas and transformed the way I approach social and economic questions. It has taught me to think more critically, reason more ethically, and question more fearlessly. My philosophical training continues to shape the kind of economist and policy thinker I hope to become: one who is not only grounded in data and theory, but also aligned with the ethical and conceptual foundations of the issues that matter most.

Zainab Shakoor 2025

My name is Zainab Shakoor. I study Philosophy at City College. My primary interest is philosophy of language, philosophy of mind, and scholasticism. By combining all three, I aim to put forth a good case for linguistic idealism. My hope is to show the multicultural aspect of language and how there is no universalized mode of language, it is rather our social conventions that not only shape the way we speak but also the way in which we view the world thereby diversifying the field of philosophy. Our language is used as a medium to interact with the world and this prompts me to investigate the intricate relationship between the two.

Sophia Wilson-Petty 2025

Hi! My name is Sophia Wilson-Petty, and I’m a philosophy major. I initially started my journey at City College as an engineering student and for a couple of years, as I tried to figure out what academic direction I wanted to pursue, I worked and was a student part-time. But as soon as I took the introductory class, I realized my deep pull towards philosophy. As of yet, I haven’t found my niche in philosophy (though I’m not sure if I really want to), and each semester I find myself interested in more philosophy courses than I can take. Something I’ve particularly enjoyed is learning about ancient philosophical thought and contrasting it with contemporary applications, such as the ethics of AI and the tech industry. I’ve also liked reading Descartes, Leibniz, Wittgenstein (confusing as he may be), among many others. Outside of school, if and when I get a chance, I love reading and creative writing and spending time with my friends and family. I also love, love, love to travel and often do so any opportunity I get; I’ve gained a great appreciation for road trips. Someday, I hope to travel and experience the world.

Aiden Welling 2025

Hello, my name is Aidan Welling, currently in my junior year of study at City College. I come from the lower Hudson Valley and I spend the majority of my time outside. My excursion into philosophy began with two classes that were well out of my caliber at the time. While I did struggle, I found cognitive stimulation unlike no other. I found my greatest recourse to be colloquy, mainly within the philosophy club.  I found myself going to the weekly philosophy club meetings and progressively becoming more involved; becoming the secretary Fall of 2024 and the president Fall of 2025.  I often struggle in academics with focus and staying au courant with my classes, but philosophy is a welcome aberration. I've found value in philosophy in all aspects of life. The abilities that are developed within my classes are perpetually assisting me. My favorite realms of philosophy are aesthetics, metaphysics and deontology. My favorite insight is that everyone experiences the world and works towards a discrete understanding, that understanding is (in my eyes) the root of philosophy. 

Mario Rodriguez 2024

My name is Mario Rodriguez. I am a senior here at CCNY majoring in Philosophy and minoring
in Psychology passionate about ethics and social justice. I have always found that studying
philosophy is what helps us build a foundation to navigate our moral compasses. My very first
introduction into this realm of study was when I discovered John Stuart Mill’s review of
Utilitarianism (a very drastic dive into philosophy). It was at that moment that I realized how
interconnected the studies of ethics, morality, epistemology, and logic are in our everyday lives
when analyzing dilemmas or simply forming a thought. I knew I wanted to study philosophy not
only to have an enlightened way of perceiving life in its entirety, but also to really dissect ethics
and logic and apply this in a way that I could potentially help others. For this reason, I have
dedicated my career outlook to working alongside the legal system with a social justice/advocacy
centered approach. With all the knowledge I've gained on a social and political aspect, this has
vastly peaked my commitment to helping the public interest address their challenges accordingly.
Academics and career aside, when I'm not studying, I enjoy playing tennis, hiking, trying new
restaurants and coffee shops. What I love to do most however is travel the world, discovering
and experiencing new cultures to allow myself a more insightful understanding of what our
beautiful world has to offer.

 

Taqarrub Hossain 2024

At the end of every philosophy class I’ve taken, I leave feeling two things: deep
befuddlement followed by dreadful existential crisis. However, I’ve accepted that such
sentimentalities are par for the course for any true practitioner of philosophical inquiry. Worse
still, the knowledge and ideas of these classes have inexorably changed my perspective on
everything in my secondary major of biology. When I learn about genetics in my class, for
example, not only must I know where specific proteins must bind, but my thoughts spire out of
control and begin to connect how genes interlope with free will. Though they are separate pools
of knowledge, the roots they share are deeply intertwined, and such fraught connections led to
my choice to double major in philosophy and bio. After all, in philosophy and biology, one
subject begets more questions on the other the deeper one delves; it’s an itch that never satisfies;
a stone that never ceases to irk one's gullet. My interest in philosophy has welded with my
studies in biology so topics such as ethics, free will, and the philosophy of biology are all of keen
interest to me. Specifically, in the future, I want to focus on what it means for an organism to be
alive as well as considering whether or not insects deserve ethical consideration. Aside from the
mundaneness of academia, I enjoy video editing and 3d modeling as hobbies. Oh, I also enjoy
star gazing, because it envelopes my thoughts with more existential dread.

 

Oleh Pravda 2024

My name is Oleh Pravda, and I am a Philosophy Major, currently on track to obtain my Bachelor’s Degree by the end of the year. This will be my second attempt at finishing my tertiary education as the first finished rather abruptly with the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in 2014/2015. 

Originally, my academic interests lay in the domaine of linguistics as I studied Chinese language and literature back in Kharkiv, Ukraine. No matter how fascinating my original education was, my interests soon broke out of the narrow scope provided by the study of language, and I became enamored with of philosophy after taking the intro class during my freshman year. Despite the vagaries of immigration and international politics my interest in philosophy had not diminished, and I enrolled into a Philosophy program at City College as soon as I could. 

I suppose that it was the study of history of philosophy that initially fascinated me, as it allowed me to systematically view the evolutionary process of the human thought unravel through millennia. Similarly, my interests in philosophy evolved as the immersion into Modern Philosophy granted me the passage to the world of the philosophy of the mind and epistemology where philosophy meets my fascination with linguistics in a wonderful twist worthy of Möbius’ attention.

Upon my graduation I intend to seek admission to a Law School, yet my passion for philosophy will undoubtedly continue to develop, albeit in a less professional setting (which, after all, may not be so bad).

 

Nora Prince, 2024

My name is Nora. I am from Brooklyn and I am about to start my third year at City College. I have had a slightly unconventional path to my philosophy degree. After a false start in college at 19 I took some time to flail and try to learn a little bit about the world. In this exploration I worked as a babysitter, a trail builder, a restaurant host, an EMT and a carpenter's assistant. I also officiated two weddings. I learned a lot of new skills and lived in many new places. Being back in school in my mid-20s has been a really positive experience. I would not encourage my peers to drop out of school but a few years away has given me an appreciation for just how special a place the University environment is. I have had such an amazing time learning with my professors and my peers. My interest in philosophy is very broad so I have been able to enjoy classes as seemingly dissimilar as Philosophy of Science and American Philosophy. I have enjoyed reading Peter Singer, Nietzsche, Descartes, and Leibniz. We will see if my orientation becomes more narrow with time but I kind of hope it does not. When I am not doing school work I read contemporary fiction for my book club, I rock climb with my sister and I volunteer with GrowNYC. 

Kayla Austin, 2024

My name is Kayla Austin, I am a 20-year-old senior double majoring in Philosophy & Psychology. I am Guyanese, but I lived in Brazil from the ages of 7-13, then when I started high school, my family moved from Brazil to New York. I speak three languages; I am a member of the CCNY Prelaw club as well as the Honors Program in Legal Studies. I am passionate about philosophy because I see it as the ultimate display of humanity. No other species can develop a discipline dedicated to the study of their own nature, knowledge and reality. Philosophy gives us a medium through which we can discuss and debate anything in pursuit of a better understanding of life itself. This is an invaluable aspect of humanity that allows us to grow & evolve. Indian philosophy specifically has enlightened me and shifted my perspective in ways only the pursuit of knowledge can. Philosophical theories and ethical principles are the foundation for society as we know it and studying philosophy has led me to my passion for justice & the law. I aspire to use the skills my undergraduate bachelor’s in philosophy and psychology have given to me to become an attorney that can be of service to those in my community seeking justice. Philosophy has helped me understand that life is what you make it, so I do my best to be well-rounded. Outside of school I enjoy hiking, reading, doing yoga and making memories with my friends & family.

 

Kenneth Dillon, 2024

Kenneth Dillon studies philosophy at the City College of New York. He is currently pursuing independent research with Professor Chad Kidd (CCNY) on the subject of self-knowledge. He has broad interests in philosophy which include aesthetics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, and the history of philosophy. Alongside academic work, his essays and criticism have appeared in The Baffler, The Drift, Los Angeles Review of Books, Cleveland Review of Books, Publishers Weekly, New York Review of Architecture, Public Books, Noēma Magazine, Full Stop, and more. 

Ekaterini Dupi, 2024

Hello, my name is Ekaterini Dupi, and I am a kind-hearted and hard-working person, with a big passion for philosophy, more particularly the ethics of morality and moral phenomenology. Through my academic journey, I have found the complexities of human behavior and the underlying principles that guide our ethical decisions really interesting. Moral Phenomenology fascinates me the most, our experiences and how they drive our ethical and moral judgment. This challenges me to think critically and deeply about the nature of right and wrong, and how our subjective experiences shape our moral frameworks. Outside of my studies, I am passionate about photography and film. When capturing the beauty of the world through my lens it allows me to express my creativity and explore new perspectives. I also cherish time spent with friends and family, and seeing how they are. Adventure is also at the core of who I am. I love to set ambitious goals and push myself to achieve and do better. Whether it's visiting places I've never been, exploring new cultures, or simply trying something new, I thrive on the excitement and challenge that adventure brings. My philosophy in Life is to work hard, stay kind, and never stop exploring. These aspects guide me in everything I do, from my academic pursuits to my personal life. In the future, I hope to combine my love for philosophy, human rights, and creativity into a career that makes a difference. I am excited about the journey ahead and the endless possibilities it holds.

 

Mark Paghubasan, 2024

My name is Mark Paghubasan. I am a student at The City College of New York studying philosophy. Originally a computer engineering major, I became interested in philosophy in the spring semester of 2022. I decided to take it up as a minor at first, but I made a big decision the following semester to change philosophy to my major entirely. Stoicism is the core philosophy that piqued my interest, as it focuses a lot on virtue ethics and living a better life. This philosophy in particular stood out to me as I was facing a lot of obstacles and adversity at the time, and reading about different philosophers’ approaches to similar adversities was something that I related to immensely. Being able to take this philosophy and apply it to my everyday life has been a game-changing endeavor for me. Outside of philosophy, I am interested in many things such as music, basketball, and game design. I enjoy singing and playing piano in my free time, as these activities help me get in touch with my creative side. Although this is mostly a solo activity, it was basketball and video games that made me a natural competitor while also making me a great team player and high achiever. With my continuing journey into philosophy, I plan to become a better version of myself while pursuing my own philosophy and way of living. And even though I am still a young philosopher, I am excited to journey deeper into who I can become and what impact I can have on others.

 

Ryan Tucker, 2024

My name is Ryan Jacob Tucker, and I am a philosophy major at the City College of New York. I took my first philosophy class, Logical Reasoning, in Fall 2022 and fell in love with subject. My current interests include existentialism, phenomenology, and the philosophy of race. I particularly enjoy reading the works of Jean-Paul Sartre, Richard Wright, and Søren Kierkegaard, having been inspired by Professor Chad Kidd’s course on existentialism. Outside of academics, I work in creative production, contributing to teams that produce live events, films, television shows, fashion shows, summits, galas, and festivals both domestically and internationally. Recently, I had the opportunity to produce events for the United Nations during General Assembly Week and the South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas. In Spring 2023, inspired by Professor Elise Crull, my peers and I restarted the philosophy club, after the pandemic. Over the past year, I have served as president of the club, witnessing it grow from just four members to over thirty, attracting students from across the science, art, and humanities disciplines. Beyond school and work, I have enjoyed playing chess since elementary school. Although I no longer play at a professional level, I still visit local chess clubs whenever possible. I’ve also developed an interest in fashion and design, and plan to attend a sewing class at FIT this year.

 

Sudene White, 2024

Hello! My name is Sudene White, and I am a recent graduate, passionate about both the arts and the sciences of the mind. With a degree in philosophy and psychology, I am eagerly stepping into the next chapter of my life, which involves an exciting move to a new city. Beyond my academic pursuits, I have a deep love for knitting and crocheting, crafts that have taught me patience, creativity, and the joy of creating something beautiful from simple materials. My trusty companion through it all is my dog, Diamond, whose boundless energy and affection brighten even the most stressful days. Philosophically, I am particularly drawn to the realms of mental health and language. The philosophy of mental health intrigues me because it bridges the gap between abstract thought and practical well-being. I am fascinated by how philosophical concepts can inform our understanding of mental health, shaping therapies and improving lives. Language philosophy captivates me for its exploration of how words shape our reality. The power of language to influence thought, culture, and interpersonal communication is a field rich with insights that resonate deeply with my interests in human cognition and social interaction. In addition to these interests, I enjoy exploring various random philosophies, from ancient Stoicism to contemporary existentialism, and finding nuggets of wisdom that contribute to my personal growth and worldview. In summary, I am a dynamic individual with a zest for life, a dedication to understanding the human mind, and a love for creative expression. I look forward to contributing to and growing within the philosophical community, sharing my unique perspective, and continuing to learn from others.

 

Kyle Knight, 2023

Kyle Knight is a creative writer with a deep passion for incorporating philosophy into his fiction. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre and is currently pursuing a major in philosophy, all in pursuit of making philosophical ideals more accessible through his writing. He believes many crucial philosophical ideas are hidden behind the weighty, impenetrable tomes of academia—by academics for academics— and wants to use creative writing to provide readers with access to these ideas. In his free time, Kyle immerses himself in books, delving into fantastical worlds that point to various philosophical concepts that can be applied to his own world and the worlds of his writing; such as ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology. His day(night)-jobs are both as a bartender and working at a liquor store, each providing a countless number of interesting characters for him to observe. Kyle's life centers around his family, particularly in supporting his wife, who is in the midst of her law-school journey, and their two adorable cats. Kyle is committed to personal growth and learning, and this scholarship will aid in his ongoing education, and support of his wife's aspirations. He is a believer in the power of humanity, simplicity, and empathy; just a writer on a quest to contribute meaningfully to the world, one humble story at a time.

 

Jason Cabral, 2023

I am a Dominican & Honduran first-generation student double-majoring in Psychology and Philosophy at City College. Since I was a child, I’ve been deeply curious and invested in helping others in any way I could. Living in the Bronx my entire life, I saw firsthand the ill effects that mental health stigmas and lack of mental health resources had on those in need. Now an upper senior, my interests have been focused on philosophy of the mind and perception as well as developmental and cognitive psychology. With these ideas in mind, I hope to get closer to answering the questions: what makes individuals develop into the unique beings they are, and how can we help those who seem unhelpable? After graduation, I plan to do a post-bacc(s) doing psychology research and then applying to Clinical Psychology PhD programs. I believe that active research efforts are the key to accessible, and more importantly effective, mental health resources. I hope to use my doctorate to do research which can guide my clinical work. In my free time, I enjoy quality time with family, friends and my beloved cats, and googling things I know nothing about.

 

Devin Chand Mehra, 2023

Devin Chand Mehra is a Bi-racial student of American and Indian descent, who currently studies at CUNY City College. He is currently pursuing his BA in Philosophy, with plans to go into research and get his PhD later on in his academic career. His main interests involve Heidegger, specifically regarding Ontotheology, Mereology, and self-concealment. His goal with these topics is to explore two things. Firstly, the limits of creation of new thought in the world. And secondly, the paradoxical nature of knowledge regarding concealed entities. He is also currently a Mellon Mays Fellow, doing research towards a thesis on Heidegger. In his free time, Devin writes poetry and works on his Cadillac.

 

Tomma Buynevich, 2023

I’m Tomma Buynevich, a Jewish Belarusian-American senior at City College of New York. My family’s journey began twenty-seven years ago when they immigrated from Belarus in pursuit of the American dream. Like many immigrants, my family instilled in me the profound value of education. As the first person in my family to finish high school and attend university, I’ve gained an immense appreciation for the opportunities education can provide and the self-confidence it fostered. I’m currently majoring in Philosophy with a minor in Legal Studies. My aspiration is to embark on a career in law after I graduate, and I’m on track to complete my undergraduate journey this upcoming spring semester. Balancing full-time studies with part-time work as a preschool teacher has been quite challenging at times, occasionally feeling like an uphill battle. However, my dedication and determination keep me moving forward. I’m excited to continue this journey, embracing both the challenges and opportunities that come my way.