Matthew-Jack 

After high school, I travelled for years and tried my hand at different professions. I trained as a horticulturalist then worked as a guitar builder. I lived in Spain and Greece and then decided to study end-of-life care. I trained as a specialist counsellor for people at the end of their lives. 

 

It took a long time for the academic path to seem appealing. All of this life experience was grist for the mill. I wanted to improve my writing skills, to get better at decoding the world around me, and learn how to make the kinds of arguments that would make the world a better place. So, I enrolled at Oxford Brookes University, and doors began to open.  

 

I graduated with a first-rate degree in anthropology and philosophy, and then travelled to the US for a master's degree in environmental philosophy. I became a teaching assistant and learned how to teach politics and philosophy to undergrads. Since returning to the UK to start my doctorate, I have tutored for summer schools at Oxford University and have been working on setting up my own businesses.  

 

My broad fascination with nature and enduring curiosity have led me to an unusual skillset. I love music and art, but have extensive training in scientific reading and research. I can explore deep questions about human evolution and bring what I've learned into philosophy, where I have the chance to think through niche questions about morality and the mind. Giving space to the things that fascinate me allows me to bring fields of research together that rarely meet. It's fun, but it's not for everyone.