Anna-Lena Koke is a second-year student of Philosophy. She is pursuing the Bachelor of Arts degree, 2-subject programme. Anna-Lena’s other subject is Classical Philology.
What made you choose this degree programme?
My interest in the subject “philosophy” had deepened in the sixth form. I was soon quite happy with the idea of studying philosophy at the RUB with the aim of broadening my knowledge and gaining a better insight.
In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?
I had the expectation to be able to choose seminars according to my taste in addition to mandatory courses – and these expectations have been met at the university. Unlike at many other universities, the wide range of courses offered in this programme ensures a surprisingly multi-faceted approach. The disappointing thing is that, once I complete my degree, there won’t be many career options open to me with the exception of teacher.
Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?
It is interesting to be able to continuously broaden and apply my knowledge. Even though the subject matters covered in the mandatory classes are both very comprehensive and rather dry, they are easily applicable and provide a great overview. This is the basis upon which the seminars are then structured.
What has been your biggest challenge to date?
It sometimes took quite a bit of effort to find one’s bearings amongst the terminologies and theories of systematic philosophy. The field of logic, too, provides the one or other difficulty. Still, the appropriate exercises and tutorials will facilitate your way in.
What would you like to become after completing your degree?
I’m studying to become a teacher.
Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?
Even if you did not have philosophy at school, don’t worry to enrol in this programme. You will get an insight into many different branches of philosophy and then, according to your individual interests, you can study those subjects in-depth that you enjoy the most.
What made you choose this degree programme?
For the teacher training program, I chose the subjects that I enjoy the most and in which I can work best didactically. Besides, it was already clear to me in school that I would like to study philosophy.
In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?
Philosophy is extremely interdisciplinary. Therefore, you can go in many different directions and further study your interests specifically. In particular, my enthusiasm for ancient philosophers and their views has been greatly enhanced.
Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?
Being able to apply philosophy as a methodological science in everything, whether it is pure thought experiments or practical problems in everyday life. The course can be very flexible, whether thematically or in terms of the course of study.
What has been your biggest challenge to date?
The written submissions are unusual at first. But you get used to it very quickly and can choose a lot of topics yourself to keep yourself motivated.
What would you like to become after completing your degree?
I would like to work either as a teacher or in a comparable didactic profession. The best would then be a combination of both of my subjects.
Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?
Don't get overwhelmed at the beginning of your studies and enjoy the opportunity to learn a lot about other subjects in philosophy.
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