Hi everyone! This is an open-ended question about studying philosophy with a whole lot of framing. I have been putting off applying for almost three years. I want to study history of philosophy. I'm really not sure whether an intellectual history or German program wouldn't be a better choice for me. I have an unhealthy interest in the 18th century German enlightenment, and specifically the circle of thinkers, writers and publishers around Mendelssohn and the Berlin Mittwochgesellschaft. I'm interested in their reception of Plato, Aristotle, stoics and epicureans. I love teaching and want to teach philosophy. I have a few problems that have kept me from applying to grad school so far: 1). I'm kind of old (31). 2). I have a hard time getting excited about what theorist is the most popular this week. I have the suspicion that this lack of enthusiasm is a liability. 3). My university had more of a great books program. Which might explain problem #2. 4). My university had a mostly continental department. I don't have any deep-seated commitment to continuing that route. But I don't know if any non-continental departments will take me. 5) I don't have money to fund myself, and I'm already in debt. Question: Where should I apply? Or should I? I don't think I can be happy without continuing my studies. About me: graduated 2013, summa cum laude, phi beta kappa, GRE perfect v, bad q, 5w. My German is at reading and speaking proficiency, and I have two semesters of Latin from a German university where I'm working as a English TA in a gymnasium. I came here as a Fulbright TA and stayed a second year.
