Guelph Grad Q&A: Matthew Hernandez
Love of Philosophy Leads Grad to Law School
When Matthew Hernandez first decided to pursue higher education, he only knew one thing: he needed to study philosophy. After taking a tour of the University of Guelph, Matthew quickly fell in love with the welcoming campus community and knew he had to apply.
Now a first-year law student, Matthew is grateful he made the decision to major in Philosophy at the University of Guelph. The program gave him the opportunity to follow his passion while also providing him the foundational skills he needed to become a lawyer.
Interview with Matthew Hernandez
Tell us about yourself and why you chose to study Philosophy at the University of Guelph?
I chose to study philosophy at the University of Guelph because I took one philosophy class in high school, followed it up with some YouTube videos on philosophy, and fell in love with the subject. I was quite young when I found an interest in philosophy, and I think that it fueled my then very active imagination. At that point in my life, I knew I wanted to pursue higher education. The problem that plagued many of my peers was what to study. For me, it was an open and shut case; I needed to study philosophy. I wanted to talk to people who were like-minded, I wanted to broaden my horizons with new ideas, that, now looking back at it, were actually really old ideas that I had just not known about. In choosing the University of Guelph, I found what I was looking for, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
But why did I choose U of G specifically? I have a sister who went to the university, so upon her recommendation, I checked out an open house. After one visit to campus, and more than a few visits to other campuses, I quickly realized that Guelph had my heart. The kindness of everyone I met made me feel like this place was not only a fine academic institution, but really, a community. No other campus made me feel as welcome as U of G's, so I knew I had to apply. I applied rather broadly, and I received acceptances from all over, but like I said, Guelph had my heart.
Also, as a side note, U of G has one of the best user interfaces I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Of course, I don't believe in true perfection, but looking back, Courselink and WebAdvisor had me spoiled. That may seem like a weird tangential comment but one day you will understand.
What did you like most about your program? Is there anything in particular about the courses or professors that stands out to you?
The professors at the university genuinely want you to succeed and I have a lot of respect for them. I appreciate everyone at the university who has given us the opportunity to study something as beautiful as philosophy. As a student in the philosophy program, you get the opportunity to develop academic relationships with your professors. They guide your research, they give incredible insights, and I cannot praise the faculty enough. Utter experts in their fields, and they are much appreciated. It's really something you need to experience to understand.
Additionally, the philosophy community as a whole is one of the most valuable things you can be a part of as a philosophy student. Many of the friends I keep in touch with from my undergrad were in the philosophy society and the general philosophy population. Some of the most interesting people I have ever met were a part of this group, and if there is anything I miss about my undergrad, it is talking with those people.
Finally, the course options are solid. I really enjoyed the variety in philosophy, from the Ethics of AI to Chinese Philosophy.
Did you do co-op? If yes, tell us a bit about your placement and your experience.
I never did co-op, as I mostly worked summers as a server/bartender, although I did work for the university as a student ambassador during my final year.
Where are you currently working and what is your role?
I am still working part-time as a server/bartender while I study law full-time. I am in the process of finalizing job applications as I send this email out, so fingers crossed I land a position at one of the firms I have my eyes on! I am also applying to legal clinics, again, fingers crossed.
How did your degree and time at the University of Guelph help get you to where you are today? How do the skills and education you gained help with your current work?
An education in philosophy is very relevant to the work I do in law school. I would probably say the research aspect of my philosophy degree, which was most relevant in my upper years, has been extremely useful as a foundation for research standards. Legal research is a big part of what I do now, and it will continue to be a part of what I do going forward professionally. A background in philosophy has also helped me develop the skill of reading. In legal scholarship, much like philosophy, we are required to break down difficult texts and work with technical concepts that can be rather esoteric.
What advice would you give someone considering majoring in Philosophy or applying to the University of Guelph?
Study something that speaks to you. You will always be better at something you truly want to study, even if it's hard at first.
Really, if you are driven and even a tiny bit interested in philosophy, I would say, do it. Even if you don't begin in philosophy, take a class (one that actually interests you). In my experience, many of those who chose to study philosophy transitioned into the program because they realized after one class that it was really what they wanted to study.
Bonus Questions
Where was your favourite place to eat on campus and what was your go-to food order?
Pre-class coffee run at the UC Starbucks. Order: Grande cold brew black (light ice). Not for the faint of heart.
In your opinion where is the best place to study on campus?
The library of course. Quiet floors if you're locked in.
What are your top 5 favourite things about U of G?
- The People
- My Program
- The City
- The Food
- Campus