Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2025 graduating students over the coming days.

Major: BS, Special Education and Human Rights
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland

Q: Why did you choose UConn?

A: I chose to come to UConn from out of state because of the great reputation that the Neag School of Education has developed. I want to be the best teacher that I can be, and I knew that UConn would help me do that.

Q: What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?

A: I am a double major in special education and human rights. I have wanted to be a teacher since I was in first grade, and I figured out I wanted to work in special education after spending a summer as a one-on-one aide at a summer camp. I think that a strong K-12 education system is necessary for a caring society, and I want to contribute to developing the future generation. I chose to add the double major in human rights because I wanted to approach education from a human rights perspective.

Q: Did you have a favorite professor or class?

A: It’s hard to choose! I have loved all my American Sign Language professors (shout out to professors Michael Schlang and Linda Pelletier), and all my education professors have been incredible. If I had to choose one class/professor, I would choose EPSY 3125 with professor Jennifer Freeman. Dr. Freeman welcomed my cohort into the Neag School with open arms, and her passion for education made it impossible not to love the class.

Q: What activities were you involved in as a student?

A: Throughout my time at UConn, I have been involved in several extracurricular and professional activities. I have been a part of Alpha Phi Omega, a gender-inclusive fraternity, since freshman year. I have also been a resident assistant since my sophomore year. I have also been involved in Community Outreach, the American Sign Language (ASL) Club, and working with the Department of Student Activities.

Q: What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

A: When I came to UConn, I didn’t know a single person and thought I would struggle to find my place there. The thing that surprised me most was how quickly I was able to find a community of people who have become my support system.

Q: What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

A: After graduating with my master’s next year, I plan to begin working as a special education teacher in an elementary school!

Q: How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

A: UConn has given me a multitude of opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. The Neag School of Education at UConn has provided me with the opportunity to work in a variety of school settings and has developed my understanding of education from an evidence-based perspective that I know will help me be the best teacher I can be.

UConn has given me a multitude of opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. — Matthew Kylin

Q: Any advice for incoming students?

A: Get involved! There is so much going on all the time around campus that you WILL find a group of people you relate to. It is sometimes scary going out of your comfort zone (I know I was terrified for a long time of putting myself out there), but it is the best way to have a positive college experience.

Q: What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

A: Go to a basketball game! I didn’t even know we were known for our basketball program until I got here, but as soon as I went to my first game, I was hooked. Even if you’re not a sports person, I think it is a necessary task while being at UConn.

Q: What will always make you think of UConn?

A: My friends! I have met so many incredible people here, and I think all the time about how my life would be different without the people I have met over the past four years.