AN INTERDISCIPLINARY AND INTERDEPARTMENTAL PROGRAM AT COLUMBIA

Wooseok Kim

I am a 2nd year Ph.D. student in the Classical Studies Graduate Program. Born in Daejeon, South Korea, I studied at Seoul National University, where I earned a B.A. in Economics and Philosophy, and an M.A. in Western Philosophy.

Having been introduced to the works of Plato during the latter years of my undergraduate degree, I decided to continue to study ancient philosophy at the graduate level, with plans to become both a philosopher and a historian of philosophy. I spent my first year in the program in intensive language training and classes focusing on Plato, Aristotle, and other ancient philosophers, in addition to Buddhist philosophy, which broadened my view of ancient philosophical traditions.

I will continue to deepen my knowledge and appreciation for ancient philosophy and classical studies while focusing more on contemporary philosophical concepts, including philosophy of mind, metaphysics, and logic during my second year.

With its rigorous training training in both philosophy and classical languages, Columbia's Classical Studies Graduate Program fosters a lively community of scholars who are fascinated by the ancient world and the classical tradition. I enjoy the many conversations I have with both its students and faculty.