Joelyn Onyekachi is a philosophy major and a junior at Georgia State University. This semester she was awarded the Kay Craigie scholarship for academic excellence in philosophy. In this interview, we talk more with Joelyn about her interests in philosophy, as well as her plans after graduation.
Introduce yourself!
Hello! My name is Joelyn Onyekachi and I am a junior at GSU, but technically it’s only my second year in school. I am from Nigeria and I was raised in Kennesaw, Georgia.
What has been the best part of your experience in the philosophy department?
The best part of my experience has been finding out that I love philosophy. I didn’t think coming into school I would double major, but I was hooked from the first day of my intro class.
What were some of your favorite philosophy courses?
Self Transformation of the Mind with Dr. Eric Wilson was incredible. I learned so much and the readings were always so fascinating. Intro to Philosophy with Dr. Eddy Nahmias is what got my love for philosophy going so I definitely need to give a shout-out to that class.
Why did you choose to major in philosophy?
Honestly, it combined my favorite things reading and writing. I like to wonder and I tend to overthink but in philosophy, there really isn’t overthinking, you can question every and anything.
What are your plans after graduation?
Hopefully a T-10 law school, fingers crossed.
What advice would you give to students thinking about a degree in philosophy?
DO IT! It’s a versatile major and it really helps you develop critical thinking. Especially if you want to go to law school, having philosophy as a foundation is making my LSAT prep so much easier. I also want to point out I have yet to encounter a department more caring, understanding, and supportive than the philosophy department the professors over here are not only intelligent but they’re also thoughtful.
Outside of school, what are some of your hobbies and interests?
I have a puppy that takes up a lot of my time, I work, I’m in a couple of different school organizations (SGA, SEB, Honors Ambassador, etc.), I love to crochet as well and I am thinking of opening up my own little brand. I love volunteering and interning with nonprofits and children it’s a big passion of mine.