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In My Student Experience, our Success Connectors speak to subject heads within the School of the Media, Arts and Humanities (MAH) to find out more about their experiences as a student, their opinions on the School, and their advice for students studying in MAH.

This week, our connectors speak to Mahon O'Brien, Head of Philosophy.

Mahon O'Brien 

Mahon O'Brien is a Professor of Philosophy and the current Head of Philosophy. His work to date has largely been concerned with issues in phenomenology, in particular, the work of Martin Heidegger.

What was your experience as an undergraduate student like?

I didn’t exactly hit the ground running when I started university and found it difficult to manage the freedom that came with it. I did have this moment of awareness when I realised that I needed to take responsibility for my studies. From that moment on, I began to enjoy all aspects of university life a lot more. 

What do you think makes a successful Media, Arts and Humanities (MAH) student?

In order to succeed, students need a spirt of adventure but also an appetite for hard work. This willingness to work hard is a part of taking responsibility for one’s studies. Ultimately, no one else can do the work for you. All of the students that I see at Sussex are bright and capable; typically, the students who excel simply work harder than everyone else.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

I have a passion for horse racing. My family have been involved in the breeding and training of racehorses for the best part of a century. My Grandfather registered the family colours in 1932. My interests in horseracing intersected with my career in philosophy a few years ago when I was appointed as Independent Chair of the British Horseracing Authority’s Ethics committee.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

I would love to have a photographic memory or a ridiculously high IQ - it would make my job a lot less tedious at times.