Sungwoo Um, Ph.D. 2019

Assistant Professor, Seoul National University (Department of Ethics Education) – Seoul, South Korea

2019 Ph.D., Philosophy and certificate in College Teaching

How has being a Philosophy graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"Duke Philosophy has a very friendly and supportive atmosphere. I felt like professors and students were interested in my research and willing to help me to flourish as a graduate student. It gave me a confidence as a scholar and the feeling of being cared about. Also, Duke Philosophy has great resources. For example, there are a lot of lecture or seminar series and various kinds of funding. Be active in taking advantage of what they prepared for you."

What advice would you give students in Duke's Philosophy programs? 

"Duke philosophy is very interdisciplinary, emperically oriented, and open to non-Western tradition. This can give you a broader perspective as a person and as a scholar. Try to make the most out of it! You will develop the ability to see the real world from a philosophical perspective."

Sungwoo Um