Taylor Machan

What is your favourite thing about the College?

It’s hard to pick just one! What drew me to the program originally was the use of primary sources and how involved the professors were; both of these are still some of my favourite things about the program. The College truly is a community and that makes for an amazing and unforgettable experience as a student.

What will you miss the most?

The environment and the people! I made some of my best friends through Hums and I’ll always be grateful for that. I’ll definitely also miss the Lounge! I’ve spent more time in that room over the past 5 years than I did in my own dorms, and for good reason! I loved having a space to unwind with other students and discuss what we study, whether that was deep philosophical discussions, absurd philosophical discussions, or just complaining about Aristotle. (Also, special shout out to the big comfy chairs in there – prime nap location).

What is your favourite reading/book/text from the program?

Probably Dante’s Divine Comedy, with a soft spot for the Inferno. I didn’t expect it to draw me in as much as it did, but after 2000 and a seminar with Stephenson, its safe to say I’m (happily) stuck with Dante for the rest of my life.

What’s next for you?

I’ll be attending Algonquin’s Applied Museum Studies program in the fall! After that, my ideal career would be one of those hermits rich people paid to say vaguely philosophical things every once in a while, but realistically I’ll probably just pursue a Master’s.