College of Humanities and Sciences
Department of Philosophy

General Advice for Students

1. Student Life
   
   Be sure to get a copy of the VCU Resource Guide, which is free for all students. (You should have gotten a copy at registration, but if not, you can pick one up in the Student Commons.) It has all sorts of useful information about what's available at VCU. It also contains copies of a number of important VCU policies, and information about important services such as: Student Health Services, University Counseling Services (for problems of stress and anxiety, study skills, etc.), Career Counseling Services (for jobs and graduate school), the Library, the Writing Center (for assistance with problems in writing), Computing Services (for opening a computer account), and the Bookstores.
   
   
2. The Philosophy Club
   This is a student organization that sponsors discussion sessions, lectures, public talks on issues in philosophy, and that organizes social activities (e.g., lunch, picnics, bowling). Announcements about activities are made in classes throughout the semester. Participating in these activities is a good way to meet other students, and learn more about philosophy.
   
   
3. Using a Computer
   
   It's almost essential that you use a computer for word processing. Doing so permits you to revise easily your papers several times, which is usually what it takes to write a good paper. If you don't have easy access to a computer, you should apply (in the basement of the Cabell Library) for a computer account with the University. Even if you own your own computer, you probably should apply for an account; it will give you access to electronic mail and electronic bulletin boards.
   
   
4. Applying for Graduate School
   
   Your advisor can provide you with information about applying for graduate school. You should probably apply to at least five programs including some very competitive programs and some that are less so. Your advisor can help you select appropriate programs. By the end of your junior year you should start writing away for applications, and arranging to take the GREs. You should keep in mind that two very important parts of your applications are a sample paper and your letters of recommendation. For this reason you should make sure that you take several courses with some professors who think highly of your work (so that they can write strong letters of reference). In addition, you should be sure that you have written at least one paper that shows you at your best. Information about graduate schools is available through the Career Counseling Center in the Student Commons. For graduate programs in philosophy your best source of information is the Guide to Graduate Programs in Philosophy, which we have (on the bookshelf by the reception desk). This lists all the graduate programs and provides useful information on each. The Directory of Philosophers (also by the reception desk) also has listing of all departments offering Masters and Ph.D. programs along with an indication of what sort of financial assistance they offer (but much less other information).
   
   
5. Finding a Job
   
   The Career Counselling Center provides a broad range of services. Remember that letters of reference are important, and so it is in your interest to take several courses with some professors who think highly of you.

    

Anthony Ellis, Department Chair: ajellis@vcu.edu

C. Diane Bentley, Secretary: dbentley@vcu.edu

Webmaster e.mail: ajellis@vcu.edu

Revised 08/31/2006