Chippewa Valley Times

Matthias McDermott, a student at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC), reflects on his comprehensive academic journey, emphasizing the pivotal role the Mark Stephen Cosby Honors College played in his education. Initially apprehensive about the Honors College's academic rigor, McDermott discovered its enriching impact through his first course, "Exploring the World Through 'Schitt’s Creek.'"

Throughout his tenure at UWEC, McDermott immersed himself in various academic and community activities. He participated in biocatalysis research with Dr. Tyler Doyon, describing the project as aiming "to take fossil fuel/oil waste and turn it into commodity chemicals for commercial use." In addition, he served as a supplemental instructor in the physics department with Dr. Erik Hendrickson.

McDermott also volunteered at the Mayo Clinic Health System in Eau Claire's surgery department and worked as a phlebotomist at Sacred Heart Hospital. His involvement extended to community service through his church and four and a half years in the National Guard, where he valued the chance to help the community "in a way a lot of people don’t get to." Furthermore, his participation in the Army ROTC program provided him with leadership skills and scholarships.

One of the highlights of McDermott’s experience was serving as a peer mentor for the honors first-year course. He valued helping new students adjust to college life, asserting it was "the most directly valuable experience in terms of exposure to new students and helping to educate them." Dr. Heather Fielding, Cosby Honors College director, noted the significance of current students like McDermott sharing their balancing strategies with freshmen, highlighting his commitment to service.

As McDermott prepares for graduation, he acknowledges the Cosby Honors College's effect on his personal and professional growth. The program enabled him to develop communication skills essential for postgraduate applications. He advises others to consider the Honors College, stating it "develops you as a person like no other academic program I’ve been a part of."

After graduation, McDermott plans to apply to medical schools while working as an EMT in Eau Claire, ready to embark on his next journey, fortified by his time at UWEC.