Iqueena Hollis: Critical Thinking in Action

March 27, 2026 | By River Fundock, Student Intern, Department of Communication | Edited by Karen Tibbals, CASSH Communications Coordinator

Iqueena Hollis graduated in 2016 with a dual major in Philosophy and Journalism from the University of West Florida’s College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities (CASSH). Inspired by her career goal of becoming an attorney, Hollis chose Philosophy after hearing that philosophy majors often perform strongly on the LSAT and in law school. She found that the discipline required by the field gave her exactly the preparation she needed.

Hollis found the transition from undergraduate studies to law school was easier because the CASSH Philosophy program taught her self-direction. It strengthened her critical thinking, discipline, and self-awareness—skills that proved invaluable both academically and professionally. She later graduated from Florida A&M University College of Law with a Juris Doctor.

The critical thinking, discipline, and self-awareness I learned in undergrad really helped prepare me for law school and my career beyond. - Iqueena Hollis

Today, Hollis works as a Senior Disability Examiner at Sedgwick Insurance, where she processes disability claims and determines eligibility for benefits. The analytical and methodical approach she developed through her philosophical studies continues to guide her work.

During her time at UWF, mentorship played a significant role in shaping her journey. “I remember Ms. Hollis as an intelligent and responsible student who consistently came to class prepared and engaged,” said Dr. Wilson Maina, professor in the Department of History and Philosophy. “As a Philosophy major, Iqueena demonstrated a strong interest in critical analysis and a thoughtful appreciation for diverse philosophical perspectives. I am not surprised that Ms. Hollis is now a law graduate.”

Another influential mentor was Philosophy advisor and Associate Professor in the Department of History and Philosophy, Dr. Brian Hood.  Dr. Hood’s advice and encouragement helped her on her journey to law school. Dr. Hood said about Hollis, “Ms. Hollis’s focus and dedication served as an aspirational model for her classmates. Through her studies in Philosophy, she developed exceptional skills in logical analysis, technical writing, and scientific-philosophical methods—skills that will serve her well in any vocation. The Department of Philosophy was fortunate to have her and is proud to count her among our alumni. She will serve as a case study in the value of majoring in Philosophy.” Dr. Hood and Dr. Maina wrote letters of recommendation for Hollis as she applied to law schools. 

Ms. Hollis’s focus and dedication served as an aspirational model for her classmates. The Department of Philosophy was fortunate to have her and is proud to count her among our alumni. She will serve as a case study in the value of majoring in Philosophy. - Dr. Brian Hood

A variety of philosophy courses also helped Hollis apply philosophical ideas to various contexts. “The study of Philosophy requires a great deal of self-discipline and it taught me how to methodically manage my workload while maintaining a good work/life balance,” Hollis explains. “The critical thinking, discipline, and self-awareness I learned in undergrad really helped prepare me for law school and my career beyond.”

While at UWF, Hollis was not idle outside of the classroom. She also participated in the W.E.B. DuBois Honor Society, The Voyager, and the Phi Sigma Tau Honor Society. Her advice to future and current philosophy students is to “go for gold.” “The study of Philosophy teaches you so many transferable skills. But it’s not for the weak! You have to be dedicated and willing to put the work in.”

Learn more about how a Philosophy B.A. can help move you into your future career.