“The people we meet and the connections we make in college play a huge role in our overall college experience. Our time in college is limited, so make the most of it and don’t be afraid to take risks. We can learn something from everyone, and its never too late to do something you’ve always wanted to do.”
–Matthew Santos
Matthew “Matt” Santos is a Junior Biology and Premedical major at Towson University. He is well known within the Towson Community, and does his part to get involved in everyway he can. I am thankful to personally know Matt, so I thought I would ask him some questions about his involvement with Towson.
What do you do? “Ever since Freshman year, I’ve always loved getting involved and making an impact on campus. I served as a Student Government Association (SGA) Senator for 2 years, played on the Intramural soccer team, and was the Head Captain of the Honors College soccer team. Currently, I am a Student Ambassador (which is the fancy term for “Tour Guide”), a Founding Father and Brother of Theta Chi Fraternity, and a Resident Assistant (RA) for Paca House, which is in West Village. Even though all of these activities have exposed me to a lot of great people and make great friends, I think becoming a Student Ambassador has been one position that really got my face out there, literally.“
When did you start doing it? “I was hired as a Student Ambassador in March 2013, which was the Spring of my Freshman Year. This coming Spring will mark my second year as a Tour Guide. Time has definitely flown by!”
What sparked your interest? “I love Towson! Becoming a Student Ambassador allows me to tell potential new students why Towson University is such a great school and why they should come here. I remember seeing the campus for the first time back in 2012 and telling myself that I wanted to get involved and make my mark on the university. Believe it or not, Towson was actually my last option before I toured here. After my tour, it suddenly became my first option. When I look back, I cannot be more proud of what I have become and the decisions I have made to get involved as a Student Ambassador. One of the best things is when the new Fall semester comes, and you see Freshman who come up to you and say that you were a big part in their decison!”
How can someone else get involved with this activity? “You can contact the Department of Undergraduate Marketing at Towson. They run the whole Student Ambassador Program. Or if that sounds too complicated, just ask me!”
Do you have any tips for people who want to get involved? “Out of everything I could possibly say, my number one tip is to find something that you are passionate about. Don’t do it for the resume or because it sounds fancy. Do it because you know you are going to enjoy it and love every moment of it. When I give tours, it doesn’t seem like a job. I feel like I am showing a few friends around my house or neighborhood. Also, keep an open mind! You never know if you will like it until you try, so give it a chance.”
How has this created connections for you personally? “Being a student ambassador and being involved in other activities has made college so much more than I ever thought it was going to be. Every day, I get to meet new people and make some amazing friends. I get to meet students before they even decide to come to Towson! I have had the chance to get close to a lot of campus leaders who I know can write letters of reccomendation for me when I need them. This past year, I was able to participate in several videos, photo shoots, and promotions for Freshman, and current students. It is a funny icebreaker when I meet Freshman and they say “Hey, you’re on the cover of my agenda”, or “Hey! I saw you on TU Cribs!” It is definitely an enjoyable experience that has allowed me to make some unforgetable connections.”
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? “I actually am a Biology major on the Pre-Medical track. So in 5 years, if I play things out right, I will just be finishing up Medical School and would be able to finally call myself a Doctor. Whether or not I will be married or have a family, I think is a little too early to tell. Until then, I still have a lot of plans including traveling, improving my hobbies, and just enjoying the rest of my college experience!”
What do you want people to take away from this interview? “The people we meet, and the connections we make in college play a huge role in our overall college experience. Our time in college is limited, so make the most of it and don’t be afraid to take risks! We can learn something from everyone, and it’s never too late to do something you’ve always wanted to. Don’t be afraid to approach a new person, or to make conversation with a random stranger. It might be hard or awkward at first, but it is better to have failed and learned from the experience than to not have tried at all and be filled with regrets. I’ve met some of my closest friends in the must absurd situations. Whether you want to meet new people, go for a leadership position, or just try something new; don’t hesitate and don’t be afraid. Just go for it!”