Denison Prize

2026 Denison Prize Winners!

Congratulations to Cory Bush and Arely Martinez.

Here is a brief interview with them.

Did you always know you wanted to major in philosophy? How did that happen for you?

Martinez: A. I decided to major in philosophy during my senior year of high school. At first, I was excited by all the options. There were so many majors that I could not choose because they all seemed so interesting. Looking back, I realize I was just really eager to learn. That feeling grew even more when my government high school teacher, who has a master’s in philosophy, introduced me to some captivating readings, especially a book called Ishmael. It made me start asking a lot of questions, and I would go back to him often just to talk through the ideas. Those conversations really stuck with me.

That’s when I knew philosophy was the right path for me. I have always been curious and wanted to understand why things are the way they are. But more than that, I want to figure out how I can be a part of the change.  I once read this quote by Karl Marx that puts it perfectly:  “The philosophers have only interpreted the world in various ways; the point, however, is to change it.” That idea really reflects how I see philosophy and what I hope to do with it.

Cory: I've always loved reading philosophy!  I was homeschooled through a classical program, so I read a TON of Greek philosophy/literature and studied formal logic from an early age.  Works like the Republic really influenced my early interest in philosophy, but I can't really pinpoint a specific point where I realized I wanted to major in philosophy.  I was always the philosophical one in my class, but I can't say I always knew it was what I wanted to study.  When the time came around to pick my major, it just felt right and natural.

What did you like the most about studying philosophy at UH?

Cory: My favorite part of studying philosophy is learning to think and reason better.  I can't capture it in words, but I feel more confident in most other aspects of my life because philosophy has provided me with a flexible and well-rounded skill set.  The communal aspect of learning together has been special as well.  Getting to really dive into theories and then playfully argue with my classmates about whether Theseus's ship remains the same ship was one of my favorite memories from my philosophy classes.

Arely: As frustrating as it can be at times, my favorite part of studying philosophy has been realizing how much we don’t know. It has taught me that as humans, we have limits and flaws, and no matter how hard we try, there is always room to grow in our minds. I have come to see my education the same way. Through my philosophy studies, I have developed a real sense of academic humility. I know there’s plenty I do not know, but that only makes me more excited to continue learning. Over the past four years at UH, that curiosity has stayed with me and continues to drive me to ask questions, think deeper, and keep improving.

What are your immediate plans now that you are graduating?

Arely: After graduation, I will be interning with Porter Hedges, a distinguished law firm in Houston, where I will work closely with the legal recruiting team. In this role, I will help support law students working as Summer Associates as they navigate their experience and transition into the professional world. I then plan to apply to law school in the fall, with the goal of beginning in Fall 2027.

Cory: I will be graduating in Spring 2027, but I am planning to apply to Masters and PhD programs this fall, so fingers crossed, I will be heading off to grad school.

How would you briefly explain the value of studying philosophy for your future projects?

Arely: Studying philosophy has trained me to question assumptions and engage deeply with complex ideas and concepts. These skills are essential for the rigors of law school and legal practice. Philosophy has prepared my mind by pushing me to analyze arguments from multiple angles, identify hidden biases, and create well-reasoned positions. This intellectual flexibility prepares me to navigate the demanding work of law school.

Also important is the sense of open-mindedness that one learns. It has taught me that every individual operates from their own set of experiences, values, and perspectives. As a future lawyer, this awareness will allow me to better understand clients, anticipate opposing arguments, and approach cases with logic rather than assumptions.

Lastly, philosophy has reinforced my commitment to continue learning and use it as a tool for advocacy. The more I understand ethical frameworks, social structures, and human behavior, the better I equip myself to help others. Especially those who are so often misunderstood. In this way, philosophy serves not just as preparation for law school, but as a foundation for practicing law mindfully and with a purpose.

Cory: As I said before, Philosophy has provided me with an incredibly well-rounded skillset that I think is applicable to many areas in life.  By learning to do things well, Philosophy has helped me to accomplish my goals and will continue to help me to overcome any challenges I face, or projects I tackle.  I hope to become a professor of Philosophy eventually, so hopefully studying philosophy will be valuable for that future goal!

Congratulations once again to you both!