At Muhlenberg, I am a philosophy major, so for me this minor has fallen right into place. I love to try to understand, to maintain an open mind, and to think critically. I also enjoy being challenged and discovering when I’m wrong. That is how I learn best, sometimes called the “hard way”, but it turns out the moment I realize I might be wrong and begin to consider a different perspective, is the moment that further develops the overarching process of thought I tend to use, if that makes any sense, this explanation hopefully translating into how I might approach potential stories, the potential itself being a thrill! I am fascinated by reality first rather than fiction. I hope to be able to document the lives of people who have something to say, whatever that might be.
I have already begun to think about how I can use this minor to further my discipline. Next Fall semester, I intend to begin the Philosophy Honors Program, in which I will need to complete an independent study, do research and write a substantial paper to defend orally in front of the philosophy department. I’m not sure how it will come together yet, but I am hoping to discover my own philosophy of documentary in the postmodern world. I could root my thesis in various theoretics of art and epistemology to focus on how we learn from/teach using documentaries, all while sorting through that reality by touching on metaphysics, and taking an axiological approach when considering morality needed in this particular medium. My concentrations fit like a glove. I can be creative and analytical in both disciplines and I am eager to learn how the two will create something brand new.
I’m not sure what place specifically I would choose to tell a story about, but I do know of a person I have been dying to interview, a former professor of mine from LCCC. now at least 86 years old and recently retired last year, he has led an incredible life. Having no family left, I have always strongly felt his story needs to be told. Originally thinking I ought to write a biography about him, I think the better vehicle for this would be film. I’d tell you more, but you will just have to see for yourself!