BA in Philosophy

Anastasia Smudde, 2026

Degree: BA in Philosophy  

Hometown: Fairfax, Virginia

Future Plans: Anastasia will continue her study of philosophy in hopes of attaining a doctoral degree. 

Anastasia chose George Mason University for its proximity to home and affordability. Through the university’s philosophy program and diverse core curriculum, she developed a strong interest in the field.

Most Impactful Class: "19th Century Russian Literature in Translation" taught by Professor Jasmina Savic, where she learned a lot about literary analysis through class discussions prompted by Professor Savic. During this course, Anastasia grew as a person and a learner. 

Favorite George Mason Memory: Falling in love for the first time at age 20. In Professor Savic’s class, discussions about first love highlighted its significance, along with the idea that it is only truly a “first” if followed by another. Otherwise, it remains simply a love—and life, she reflected, is defined by experiencing more than just one thing.

Advice for Future Patriots: She advises future Patriots to find the major that resonates with them. Throughout her time at George Mason, she switched her major five times.  

“If you don’t love what you’re studying, you’re studying the wrong thing.”