Jacqueline Paul

Whitby, Ontario
Philosophy

During her time at Trent, Jacqueline Paul benefited from the freedom to explore many academic options in her first year before settling on her chosen major. “I appreciate how unexpected discovering my academic interest was. I came to Trent planning to major in Environmental Studies and graduated with a degree in Philosophy,” she says.

For Jacqueline, that first year at Trent is still fresh in her mind. “Being on my own and having to take on responsibilities that come with independence has been a growing experience,” she says. “I will always remember my first day moving into residence. That first week is overwhelming. New people from all over are having the same experience of being away from home.”

Acknowledging that location was one of the deciding factors for choosing Trent,  Jacqueline says, “It was close enough to home that I could visit whenever I wanted, but far enough that I was still getting an ‘away from home’ university experience,” she says.

While at Trent, studying philosophy grew into a new passion for Jacqueline. “I love learning how different thinkers have tackled puzzling questions and how our outlooks have evolved over time,” she says.

Up next for Jacqueline is the pursuit of a diploma in Human Resource Management, a goal she feels her Trent experience has well-equipped her to attain. “I think the philosophy background I received from Trent will help distinguish me from other applicants and bring a new perspective to a future career,” she says. “Trent has given me the assurance and ability to know how and when to ask questions and to think in unconventional ways. I think that had I not gone to Trent my future would be looking very different. If I had to do it all again I would still choose Trent.”