For Amandeep, returning to formal study wasn’t a detour, it was a homecoming. Born in Coventry to Northern Indian Sikh parents, he describes himself as “an inquisitive soul” who has always found equal joy in learning and teaching. Now a Lecturer specialising in English Language Teaching, he has built a career shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and a belief that growth often begins in moments of discomfort.
His professional path has been anything but linear. From teaching in England and the Middle East, to working in Japan as an event coordinator and convenience store assistant, to nearly three years at Amazon, and even stepping into managerial roles in education, Amandeep sees each turn as part of a broader philosophy: controlled discomfort is an instigator of growth.
That mindset eventually led him to the University of Cambridge Professional and Continuing Education (PACE). After completing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Central Lancashire and a master’s at St Andrews, and later exploring short courses at Oxford, he found himself drawn to Cambridge’s intellectual heritage, its “rich tapestry” woven by figures like Newton and Wittgenstein. It was also a childhood dream he once thought out of reach. “I had thought the chance had gone,” he said. “And yet here I stand.”
Amandeep enrolled first in the Level 4 Certificate in Metaphysics, Philosophy of Language, and Ethics, and is now studying the philosophy of Poincaré and Duhem under Dr Ivanova as part of the complementary Level 4 Certificate in History of Philosophy, Philosophy of Mind, and Political Philosophy. Philosophy had long been an ambition, but he wasn’t sure how to begin until a conversation with Dr Carter in early 2024 offered clarity, direction, and encouragement.
“Personally and culturally, the experience has been enriching,” he said. “The unexamined life is not well lived, and studying philosophy has helped me see the beauty of which our being is capable.”
One of his most memorable moments came before classes even began, at the open day, where the academic team welcomed students for afternoon tea. Despite his extensive academic background, he felt intimidated on the journey to Madingley Hall. But Dr Carter’s blend of humour and “bombastic philosophising” made Cambridge feel human, and the mountain ahead feel climbable.
Balancing study with work has required intention, but Amandeep’s advice is simple: begin. “Everybody’s Everest is different,” he said. “We adapt. It is better to regret action than inaction. Be proud of your endeavours. Be loud. You are at Cambridge.”
The impact of the course has already been profound. It has reignited his ability to dream and expanded his sense of what might be possible. “PACE has fundamentally shifted my sense of normality, self-belief, and by proxy, my ambitions,” he reflected.
As for what comes next, Amandeep smiles: “I am an academic at heart, so it probably entails sending more emails to Dr Carter. On a serious note, learning, and more learning.”
He ends with a thoughtful note. “There is a distinct need for more vegetables in the afternoon tea. More carrots perhaps, so everyone can think clearly. More than anything, have fun. Learning is fun, and life is reflection. Make it a good one.”
Amandeep’s story is a reminder that intellectual journeys don’t follow straight lines, and that it’s never too late to return to the path that calls you.
Alongside the undergraduate qualifications, we also offer plenty of short online courses and weekend courses exploring many areas of philosophy. Discover Philosophy courses at PACE and take your next step.