By Kevin Stoltenborg

When getting to know Mathew Matthias, FCRH ’21, you will quickly learn there is more to him than the signature curls in his hair and his giggly laugh.

What Mat has is immeasurable and indescribable — a certain something that never ceases to amaze the world. So, without further ado, allow me to introduce Mathew Matthias.

Mat is all about family. Everything he does is for the people he loves.

He admits that the reason he rolls out of bed on those rainy days when the wind seems to cut through the thickest of jackets is “all to make (his) mom and family proud.”

All of the 8:30 a.m. classes in the world could not stop this man from fighting for his family.

Mat’s family stretches further than just his immediate relatives, however.

As a first time Resident Assistant (RA) in O’Hare, Mat has proven countless times that he will help his Fordham classmates whenever he gets the chance.

“When I discovered I was going to be an RA, it was the proudest moment I’ve had at Fordham,” said Mat.

Talking one on one with residents when they need someone is one of the many duties that Mat holds close to his heart.

“It’s a cliché answer, but helping others and being there for others is what I’m all about,” he said. He is a true man for others.

Let it be known that Mat is not just your friendly neighborhood RA. I would be remiss if I left out his extravagant personality as well.

There is no one who can spice up your day quite like Mat can. Whether it’s a classic, “Oh, honey” or a quick “death drop” in a crowded hallway, Mat goes all out to put on a show.

Sure, he knows he’s “a little bit of a goofball,” but he embraces his untamable spirit in order “to spread joy, and a little bit of spiciness (insert tongue pop).”

Plus, have you heard this man sing? If you haven’t, go to a Fordham b-Sides performance immediately.

As one of the vocalists of the University’s oldest co-ed acapella group, he turns any appearance into a memorable performance for the audience.

Of course, if you cannot make it to one of the b-Sides’ performances, don’t worry.

Every once in a while, you may be so lucky as to hear a run or two while on Eddies with Mat or in the Dining Hall with Mat. Did I mention he likes to sing?

Sure, Mat’s a goofball; he is also so much more.

Inside the classroom, Mat is a man on a mission. Majoring in Political Science, he has a clear plan for his future and the mindset to reach it.

Even though he keeps his goals closely guarded, it is easy to see the fire in his eyes will never settle for anything less than the best.

His mother would agree that from birth he has this way of naturally projecting an atmosphere of generosity, excitement and love to the people around him.

When asked what he wants to see more of in the world, his response was nothing less than the admirable character I have come to expect from him.

“People need to focus on … themselves,” said Mat.

“People do not give themselves enough self-care, because the world doesn’t give significance or value to self-care. It is not deemed important, but it’s how we grow.”

Noticing his answer was painstakingly true, Mat lightened the mood with a goodbye that captured both the importance of his words and the lighthearted happiness of his personality.

“That was a fire answer. My feet smell, bbyyeeee!” he said.

Yes, indeed. We will be seeing you around, Mat.