Meet Matthew

Name: Matthew Gilroy

Class of: 2022

Program: Bachelor of Science in Accounting w/ a minor in Business Analytics

"Scholarships are such a generous way to support hardworking students and they encourage students to work even harder in the future."

What do you like most about SNHU?

My professors have already had a tremendous impact on my learning experience. They have motivated me to continue giving my best effort with a positive attitude and an open mind. I can't wait to meet them in person for the first time in the fall (2021)!

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

Ever since I transferred to SNHU, the financial responsibilities of college have been my personal responsibility. Coming from a family that will soon have three children in college, I made an effort to lessen the burden for my hardworking parents. I've taken on more jobs and hours in order to pay for my classes and materials. This scholarship was such a pleasant surprise and will allow me to pay for schooling this fall (2021) without help from my parents, which I'm incredibly grateful for.

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

I would say that their donations are immensely appreciated and such a privilege to even be considered for. Scholarships are such a generous way to support hardworking students and they encourage students to work even harder in the future. As a recipient, I can't thank the donors enough and I hope to pay it forward through hard work in the classroom and in my career.

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

Initially, I chose SNHU due to its convenience as a local and esteemed college. I wanted a school close to home to eliminate the pandemic's effects and the uncertainty that came with it. I quickly learned that SNHU was going to be much more for me than just obtaining my diploma. I've since met some incredible professors, landed an internship, and now I even have a plan to get my master's degree and CPA license (which I originally had no intention of doing before coming to SNHU).

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you've imagined?

I always envisioned that my college experience would involve living on campus somewhere with a bunch of friends. That has since changed in a way that better suits my personality. SNHU has allowed me to stay close to my family, while still receiving a high-quality education. I'm also able to coach at the local high school football team, work multiple jobs, and enjoy my home city of Manchester.

What inspired you to choose your area of study? What is your dream job?

My dad was my main inspiration to pursue accounting. I've always been intrigued by it from seeing his success and his expertise. I view accounting as a learned skill and something that can be my foundation in any business endeavor. It's too early for me to identify a dream job. My plan is to work hard and let the pieces fall into place, and so far that plan has worked out well!

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

Professor Dan Murphy has been my biggest influence thus far. I spent a year on virtual meetings with him as we tackled Intermediate Accounting together. He was always willing to take my questions, stay after class with him, and offer up real world examples from his own experience that helped the material make sense. Additionally, Tracy Micali and her PCC201 class really got me on track and acclimated to all that SNHU offered its accounting majors. I owe so much of my success this year to her!

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

I will be joining the Accounting club in the fall (2021) once we get back on campus!

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

I find staying patient to be most challenging. If I have a list of things to do, I have a hard time going to bed that night if I have more boxes to check off. I do a good job of managing my time and planning out my week, but struggle with shutting my brain off for the night!

What are you proudest of?

I'm proudest of my work ethic and time management skills. I credit most of my success to my effort/dedication, and I have my parents and their example to thank.

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

I hope to be involved in the accounting community once I graduate from SNHU.  A piece of me is also interested in teaching, but that would be further down the line.

Back to Meet Our Students