Jason Murray '26: Studying the Ancient World While Building Community in Durham

Jason Murray is a senior double majoring in Classical Languages and Philosophy with a minor in Political Science. In addition to serving as a Trinity Ambassador, he co-leads the Transformative Ideas Living Learning Community, works with the Center for Christianity and Scholarship and is a Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellow. His academic interests center on ancient history and theology, particularly the intellectual life of the Eastern Roman Empire. In his free time, he enjoys playing chess and strategy video games. 

As the academic year draws to a close, we asked Murray to reflect on his time at Duke, the experiences that shaped him, and the lessons he hopes to carry forward after graduation. 

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. 

Is there a part of yourself that you discovered or reclaimed during your time at Duke? 

During my time at Duke, I rediscovered my interest in Taekwondo. I had practiced it for more than 12 years before stopping in high school, so it was meaningful to return to it during my first year. 

Not long after, I also discovered a passion for weightlifting through friends. With time it became a regular habit alongside healthier routines. I hope to keep building on that foundation after graduation and continue exploring new activities. One highlight was trying whitewater rafting, which I’m excited to do again. 

What advice would you give to your first-year self — or to an incoming first-year at Duke? 

Try as many things as you can during your first year and stay flexible. Duke offers a wide range of opportunities and exploring them helps you discover unexpected interests. 

I would also encourage students to take the initiative to meet faculty across different disciplines. Many professors at Duke are doing exciting work, and conversations with them can open up new intellectual paths. 

As you prepare to graduate, what are you most grateful for from your time at Duke? 

I’m most grateful for the friendships I’ve built both at Duke and throughout Durham. That community includes fellow students, professors and others who invested their time, care and encouragement in my growth. 

Their curiosity and commitment to making the world better continues to inspire me. As I move forward in my studies of religious and intellectual history, I hope to carry that same spirit of curiosity and generosity with me.