Paul N. Ickert

How did you choose your specific area of study?

I did not choose philosophy, it chose me. I am being somewhat jocose of course, but the program here at Mason has really instilled in me a deep passion for philosophy that transcends the bounds of vocational preparedness and has made me a stronger and more stringent thinker.

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you?

This past year I have been very successful at examining and analyzing the works of Ralph Waldo Emerson in my free time outside of my university course work. This is due primarily to the academic tools George Mason’s Philosophy department has equipped me with. Additionally, a lot of one’s schooling is about asking what something means. The Philosophy department here at Mason has also taught me to ask why something is being said or done. I feel these are the core tenets of a discerning thinker for which I am in the Philosophy Department’s debt in cultivating in me.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

During my graduate studies I have been most proud to have closely studied Immanuel Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason and Critique of Judgement. During my undergraduate degree, I always looked at Kant with trepidation and doubted my abilities to understand and analyze his works. This is due in part to having dyslexia but likewise Kant can be challenging to understand. I am therefore proud of developing coping strategies for my learning difficulties and being successful despite those deficiencies.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

There would be too many to list in so short a space, however, I hold a tremendous amount of respect and gratitude for Professor Kinnaman during my graduate studies. He has graciously worked closely with me for the past few semesters and has been (and continues to be) a source or a paradigm, if you will, of academic integrity and intellectual sincerity.

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

I would advice all incoming graduate students to dedicate themselves to the development of their academic skills and to cultivate their intellectual curiosity. This is the time of your lives when you can devote your efforts to your own growth unencumbered, so take advantage!

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

I am continuing my studies here at Mason. I have been accepted into the graduate program in English (Literature) this Fall 2022.