A Philosophy major may be proud to call Palma Hall their home college – after all, it’s one of the most iconic buildings in UP Diliman. Still, the most experienced of students know not to call it ‘Palma’ or ‘CSSP’. Even after almost 40 years since its name change, Palma Hall has always been known (and will always be known) as AS, short for its previous status as the College of Arts and Sciences. AS houses most of the General Education (GE) subjects, so it welcomes a diverse set of students everyday. Thus, the philo major’s journey is set against the backdrop of the hustle and bustle AS is known for. The day often starts with a short climb up AS steps, the famed site of choice for student mobilizations and mass actions. This leads them to the AS lobby, often filled with students rushing to their classes or hunkered over laptops.
GOOD MORNING! IT’S TIME FOR LECTURES.
Most philosophy classes are either held on the second or third floor of Palma Hall, or in the 2nd Pavillon – Pav 2 for short. Classes can begin as early as 7AM, unless CRS has blessed you with a more reasonable start at around 10AM. It’s prudent to have your morning coffee before class – the rigorous learning will begin whether or not you’ve had your dose of caffeine. Class sizes range from around 20-30 students, ensuring attentive instruction (so be sure you’ve done the assigned readings). Professors often structure lessons in line with Socratic tradition, so be ready to ponder hard on some mind-bending questions. No worries, the beauty of philosophy is that there are no wrong answers.
There is always something new to be learned (provided you don’t let your mind wander during class). Philosophy majors are introduced to key thinkers and controversies by taking Philo 1, Philo 108, and Philo 197 in their freshman year. This foundation will serve you well as you proceed to subjects in the history of philosophy, logic, ethics, metaphysics, and epistemology in your sophomore and junior years. As a senior, you’ll have access to higher majors that involve applied philosophy in the fields of law, bioethics, and other special topics. This is then capped off by defending your own undergraduate thesis. Don’t sweat it though – the curriculum is very diverse when it comes to philosophical learning. I personally had the best time in my Philosophy of Law (Philo 175), Social and Political Philosophy (Philo 176), and Ethics classes (Philo 171).
Pia’s Senior Thesis was a work in Philosophy of Law entitled “The Filipina’s Right to Un-Marry: Liberal Feminist Jurisprudence and Divorce Legislation in the Philippines”.
THAT WAS EXHAUSTING. ANYWAY, TIME FOR A BREAK!
There are many great food stops near AS to refuel after class. The kiosks behind Pav 2, near CAL, or on Fernandez street are favorites for many students for their delicious and affordable meals. You may also visit Antas, the convenience store on the 1st Floor of the West Wing of AS, to pick up packed lunches (and maybe a bluebook for your next exam).
Students have many spaces in AS to chill between classes. If you prefer quiet studying sessions, the AS Reading Hall just outside Pav 2 is perfect for you. For those seeking more active socializing, barkadas often find tables at AS Hill to enjoy their lunch and play card games. If you want a little bit of everything, across the street behind AS is Third Space at the Kamia dorm, where students can get home-cooked meals and hang out with their friends at group study sessions.
NO TIME FOR SIESTAS! MORE LEARNING INCOMING.
The learning continues after lunch, where afternoon classes begin at around 1PM. Our curriculum allows for cognate electives, which give majors the chance to explore other subjects beyond philosophy. While some opt for classes within CSSP like Political Science, Psychology, or Sociology, the options are practically limitless. You can explore your other interests by attending classes in Public Administration, Business and Economics, or Science and Math.
If you’d prefer some more hands-on learning, you can opt to apply for a post as a Student Assistant in the various offices around the university. Work usually involves publicity material making, event management, and other clerical tasks. Students earn up to PHP 81/hour to sweeten the deal.
WHAT’S BEYOND THE CLASSROOM?
Of course, a good philo major knows that learning occurs beyond the four walls of the classroom. There are many avenues for you to apply your philosophical learnings to concrete activities. One of the best ways to make friends and explore new passions is to join organizations. The Philosophy department is currently home to three student organizations: Apeiron Core Group, Kabataang Pilosopo Tasyo (KAPITAS), and UP Philosophy Society(PhiloSoc). There are also a variety of college-wide and university-wide formations you can join to champion your advocacies, try new things, and widen your horizons.
The department also greatly supports its undergraduates who intend to pursue careers in the academe. There is no shortage of conferences, symposiums, and research opportunities that students can take advantage of. The department often hosts its own functions, though students are always encouraged to participate in university-wide, external, and even international events.
Pia was the Student Convenor and Head Organizer of the first ever Emmanuel Q. Fernando Philosophy Undergraduate Conference. Pia led an OrgComm comprised of 16 other philosophy majors along with Asst. Prof. Henry Fernando, Faculty Convenor.
Finally, for the more daring, there is always the calling to become a student leader in the department, college, or university. You may opt to become the Philosophy Department Representative, a Councilor, or even a Standard Bearer of the CSSP Student Council (CSSPSC). Beyond the college, you may even seek to serve as a member of the UPD University Student Council (UPD USC). I may be biased, as this was the path I chose, but student council is one of the most fulfilling involvements. It connects you with your fellow students, but also allows you to befriend other sectoral members like the faculty, staff, maninindas, and security guards of the college. Student leadership enables you to harness your brand of philosophical rigor towards the service of the broader UP community.
The life of a philosophy major is truly an exercise in free will. You are encouraged to choose the classes that spark your interest, explore the variety of character-building opportunities, and gain lifelong core memories. At the end of the day, your journey as a philosophy major is what you make of it – all in the palm of your hand.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Pia is a graduating BA Philosophy undergraduate senior who is currently in the running for Summa Cum Laude. She also served as CSSP Representative to the USC from 2024-2025.