Philosophy - Bachelor's study program

My studies taught me how to think analytically. I can quickly grasp complex issues and explain them clearly. I can identify different types of arguments and understand their relevance. These skills are valuable in a variety of ways in my day-to-day work. They help me in dealing with my clients from various industries. They allow me to keep a cool head while moderating heated debates in a goal-oriented manner. They also support me in leading stakeholder dialogs and participatory processes, helping me maintain focus and reconcile diverse interests. 

The specific content of the program was secondary for me. What was important to me, however, were three things: First, the cognitive training I underwent during my studies. This training enabled me to think, speak, read, and write in a particular style. I learned to attain conceptual clarity, to navigate the intellectual universe, and how to handle abstractions. Secondly, I gained access to an academic network that was important both for my own questions and for my career. Thirdly, I met like-minded people, formed lifelong friendships, and enjoyed student life. These three things are invaluable – for my career as well.

My philosophy studies at the University of Stuttgart endowed me with a rigorously trained critical mind – one that enables me to question what is often taken for granted and, at the same time, to summon the courage to explore new paths of thought. Building the bridge that gives creative ideas a tangible form is essential in my work as a writer. I largely credit my philosophy studies with giving me the ability to honor my life’s purposes in this dynamic interplay and to appreciate them as intrinsically valuable, even in the context of the "bigger picture".

Philosophy radicalizes thought and language. It takes thoughts and words back to their origin. Through this, I learned to think in contradictions, to question fundamental principles, and to cultivate a critical view of the world. This is extremely helpful to me today in writing novels, plays, and essays.

Studying philosophy teaches you to remain curious and to ask "why". It also requires the ability to understand complex issues and texts and to convey them in simple language. This skill is extremely helpful in my work at a company that publishes children’s magazines.