Turning experience into research: Emma-Jane Wilson’s philosophy journey at UWTSD

Emma-Jane Wilson celebrated an inspiring academic milestone as she graduated with an MA in Philosophy from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) at the Winter Graduation Ceremony held at Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall.

Emma returned to education as a mature student after running a small property development business for nearly 20 years. Her decision to pursue postgraduate study was driven by both professional experience and her desire to better understand the social challenges she had witnessed first-hand.

“I’d experienced homelessness as a child, and throughout my work I became increasingly aware of the lack of secure, affordable housing,” Emma explained. “My Master’s dissertation allowed me to explore some of the complex issues driving gender-based homelessness, a subject I’m now hoping to continue to PhD level.”

Dr Rebekah Humphreys, Philosophy Lecturer at UWTSD, praised Emma’s commitment and academic contribution:

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After recently relocating to rural Wales with her two young children, Emma chose to study part-time at UWTSD to fit around work and family life.

“This course gave me the flexibility I needed,” she said. “The lecturers and staff were always understanding of my time constraints as a mature, working student. They were friendly, approachable and consistently went the extra mile.”

Emma says her long-term ambition is to continue in academia and make a meaningful contribution through research.

“I would love to complete a PhD and contribute something lasting that may help others with similar experiences.”

Reflecting on the highlights of her course, Emma fondly recalls the strong sense of community among students.

“Our regular Friday night Philosophy Café with fellow students, wine and nibbles from the comfort of my own home, was a real highlight,” she said.

Balancing study, work and family life was not without its challenges, with time being the greatest pressure.

“Lack of time was the biggest challenge, but the support at UWTSD made it possible for me to succeed.”

Emma is passionate about encouraging others, particularly mature students, to take the step into higher education.

“I’d thoroughly recommend UWTSD to anyone thinking of studying, especially mature students. It’s friendly, inviting and down to earth, and you really won’t feel like you have imposter syndrome.”

She also credits her philosophy studies with having a profound personal impact.

“Studying Philosophy has helped me enormously. So many of the moral assumptions society has been based on need to be challenged if we’re to solve complex problems like climate change, rising inequality and extinctions. Philosophy isn’t just sitting in an armchair with dusty old books - it gives you the tools to understand why people think what they think and the opportunity to make a real, positive difference.”

Looking ahead, Emma’s future ambitions are firmly focused on further study, and she will now be progressing to PhD-level research.

Further Information

Arwel Lloyd

Principal PR and Communications Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email:  arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467076