Effective Altruism at UVA

Extracurricular, University of Virginia, 2022

Role: Discussion Leader

Course Description: From the Effective Altruisim at UVA website

Effective Altruism is a philosophical and social movement focused on answering one question: How can we best help others?

Our resources are limited, so we have to use them wisely. Effective Altruism is about:

  1. Using evidence and reason to find the most promising causes to work on
  2. Taking action by using our time and money to do the most good we can

Responsibilities: Fellowship Program Outline As a Discussion Leader for the Fellowship Program, I:

  • Facilitated discussions to introduce students to the core principles and values of the Effective Altruism movement
  • Guided participants through thought experiments, hands-on activities, and group exercises designed to explore creative and practical approaches to addressing pressing global challenges
  • Fostered an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually stimulating environment, encouraging strong yet civil discourse on diverse and potentially conflicting viewpoints
  • Empowered students to articulate and defend their beliefs while promoting openness to diverse perspectives
  • Inspired participants to apply evidence-based reasoning in their decision-making and to take meaningful action to help others effectively