Real People Profiles: Matthew McNey

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:03:00 -0500
real-people-profiles

I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.

Name: Matthew McNey

Hometown: Columbia

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: This will be my third year, fifth semester at UMBC and still loving every minute of it!

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: SGA Senator (this will be my third year in this position) and President of College Democrats.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus?

A: Why 12 Words? Argh... ok: Supportive of change, loyal student advocate (not actually a Student Advocate) and political pragmatist.

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: In the past the SGA was in a role, not dissimilar from High School, positions were important and we were the loyal opposition to the administration. It has been a good transition from a competitive atmosphere when I entered SGA to a more equitable atmosphere and the organization becoming a shareholder in making decisions with the administration. I guess, the best aspect with my role would have to be participating in this change and continuing these philosophical discussions about where the campus should continue going, its always given me a certain feeling of place and purpose. I do hope to leave a meaningful impact on UMBC before I leave and in some big way.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: Focusing on what the problem actually is to find solutions, not the other way around.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Speaking Truth to Power.

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: I should say the SGA office, because I'm always there! Get involved! Otherwise College is boring, especially at UMBC where everyone takes studying way to seriously (me included), but there is never anything to do you just have to look, ask and investigate!