McNair Scholar
St. Cecilia Academy
Nashville, Tenn.
Philosophy and Biological Sciences
[Professor Jennifer Frey] served as an incredible mentor to me, from letting me take her graduate seminars, modeling how to lead reading groups, and offering her wisdom in so many different areas of my life. As a senior, she nominated me for the Barry Scholarship, making my graduate studies at Oxford possible.
Career plans: I will be attending the University of Oxford at Oriel College for the B.Phil. Afterwards,
I intend to pursue doctoral studies in philosophy. I hope to become a professor of
philosophy.
Most impactful experience: Founding the Thomistic Institute at UofSC formed me as a leader and a thinker, and it inspired me to pursue an academic vocation. The TI has brought me into an incredible community of scholars, and I am so grateful for the many opportunities and resources they have provided.
Best part of the Top Scholars program: I love the friends I have made as a Top Scholar. I met some of my best friends at Top Scholar weekend and in the first few weeks of freshman year, and I am so grateful to have been surrounded by such intelligent, thoughtful and interesting peers.
UofSC Story: During my freshman year, I went to a lecture on Philosophy and Literature. Prof. Jennifer Frey of the Philosophy Department gave the introduction, and I immediately knew I wanted to learn from her. I sent her an email, we talked in her office, and she asked me if I wanted to lead the Thomistic Institute chapter here. I agreed, and the course of my academic career radically changed. She has served as an incredible mentor to me, from letting me take her graduate seminars, modeling how to lead reading groups, and offering her wisdom in so many different areas of my life. As a senior, she nominated me for the Barry Scholarship, making my graduate studies at Oxford possible. Without having her as a model to imitate, I do not think I would have seriously pursued philosophy.