Department of Philosophy - Meet Jasmine

Most graduating seniors are beginning to look at what’s next after Hope College. Not Jasmine ’25. She’s actively taking time to look back at her hard work and the dedicated professors who prepared her for graduate school and a career beyond Hope.

The philosophy and political science double major from Grand Rapids, Mich., was intrigued by the many intangible elements of philosophy. “In philosophy,” she explained, “the information is geared toward theories and wondering where different modes of thought come from and how they apply to modern society. This way, I am challenging myself to think outside of the box and ask/answer tough questions.”

This type of thinking has prepared Jasmine for her next academic goal: law school. “I am grateful to be able to take my experiences with me beyond Hope and into graduate school,” she said.

She’s been impressed by the commitment to excellence and the dedication of her professors, especially Dr. Griffin Klemick. “Prof. Klemick has been an integral part of my philosophical learning and my experience at Hope,” she shared. “Even when I was struggling with material from a different class he wasn't teaching, he was willing to tutor me and give me much needed guidance. During a long study session at the Haworth on campus, he even boosted me with a coffee pick-me-up. I wouldn't have been able to make it through my logic class without him!”

Now, she works as a teaching assistant for Dr. Klemick, where she holds office hours and provides feedback and direction on papers and assignments.

Last semester, she completed her capstone course with department chair Dr. Jack Mulder. “I worked through concepts like gender, the soul and philosophical theories of sex,” she explained. “Throughout the semester, the class prepared me for a final paper where I explored philosophical topics in the realm of sex behavior.”

Jasmine is thankful for donors like you. “Thank you for giving us the opportunity to branch out and challenge ourselves,” she said earnestly. “With your help, we can understand why we think the way we do and develop a conviction to hold those beliefs.”

She aims to make you proud with her work. “I feel a profound amount of gratitude and responsibility to make the most of what I was gifted,” she shared.

Hope College’s philosophy students are prepared for challenging conversations and meaningful careers. Will you invest in students like Jasmine with your gift to the Department of Philosophy today?