Catarina Belo

St Cross College 2000, DPhil in Oriental Studies (Medieval Islamic Thought)

I am currently Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the American University in Cairo, Egypt.

I was interested in philosophy from an early age, and later became interested in the Arab world, so after taking a BA in Philosophy (University of Lisbon) and a BA in Arabic and Islamic Studies (SOAS, University of London), it was natural to combine these two interests.

The study of medieval Islam at Oxford's Faculty of Oriental Studies was very rewarding and multifaceted, with various opportunities to study the cultures and languages of the ancient, medieval and modern Middle East.

Before going up to Oxford for my DPhil degree I knew that my time there would test my capacity for sustained independent study. While one is encouraged to develop an ability for independent study and research I also had continuous support from faculty and college members, and regular meetings with my supervisors which ensured I was not simply working on my own. There was a good balance between supervision and the fostering of independent work and thinking.

Living in an Oxford college provides a student with numerous opportunities to mix and exchange ideas with other students and the fellows of the college. On the one hand Oxford has some of the best academics in the world as well as outstanding libraries. On the other hand, the collegiate system ensures that students make the most of all these invaluable resources.

In Oxford I received tremendous academic and personal support from fellow students and lecturers who were members of my college.  I have fond memories of my time in Oxford and have returned to conduct further research and meet old friends when the opportunity has arisen.

There is no question that a degree from Oxford speaks for itself. I am grateful that I have encountered the highest academic standards in Oxford together with an attention to intellectual rigour which is important not just for a subsequent academic career but in any profession.