The purpose of this assignment is to provide a “baseline” by which to measure philosophical growth in this class. It will not be graded (although it will contribute to your participation grade), but it will give me an idea of my students’ abilities to write and to reason and allow me to determine how to help you improve these skills throughout the course.

In a short, three- to five-paragraph essay, consider the question below. Use standard one-inch margins, a readable ten- or twelve-point font, and double-space the essay. The heading for the paper should appear in the upper left-hand corner and consist of your full name, the name of the course, and the date.

The content of the paper should address this question: Why did you choose to earn a degree in the program in which you are enrolled?

Beyond the factual reasons, please consider at least one philosophical point: a reason beyond the financial or practical that gives me a sense of your broader view of life and career. For example, after telling me that you want to become the next Martha Stewart and make a ton of money, tell me why. What is it about life, the universe, and/or everything that has compelled you to enter your chosen field?

Please create a title for your essay (not simply “Posing Questions”) that describes the major point(s) you attempt to make.

The essay is due at the end of class, 10 pm. I will return it to you next week, with comments, but I will keep a copy for future reference.

Please don’t simply spew down on paper anything that randomly occurs to you. Compose an actual essay, provide the kinds of relevant and acceptable reasons we’ve discussed in this first class, and give it your best shot.