Q&A: Smithtown High School East Honor Speaker Matthew Timmel

Matthew Timmel was named one of the honor speakers of the Smithtown High School East Class of 2018.

Timmel will be attending Florida State University in the Fall to study Business Finance and Computer Science.

Check out Patch's full interview with the honor speaker below:

Patch: What are your plans for after graduation?

Timmel: Immediately after graduation, my family and I will be moving down to Wimauma, Florida after 18 great years spent on Long Island. We plan to reunite with my extended family down south. In the fall, I will be attending the Florida State University in Tallahassee hoping to major in both Business Finance and Computer Science.

P: What will you miss most about high school?

T: Smithtown East has given me so many opportunities I did not even know existed before starting high school. I will miss experiences like attending DECA ICDC in cities across the country, but most of all I will miss seeing the faces of friends and teachers with whom I have built strong relationships and long-lasting memories with.

P: What are you most looking forward to in moving on to college?

T: I look forward to starting a brand new chapter of my life. I am excited to gain new knowledge in the field of business while being able to meet new people at Florida State.

P: What was your favorite memory of high school?

T: My favorite high school memory has to be during Varsity Badminton season. Being a playoff team in Suffolk County all four years of high school has allowed for the team and I to enjoy so much excitement together. After every big win you could find us belting out the YMCA on the bus ride home.

P: What advice would you give to underclassmen?

T: Underclassmen should be open to stepping outside of their comfort zone. If you are able to open up to new people and new experiences you will be able to gain such an insight on life that you likely did not knew existed. Be fearless and remember YOLO.

P: Any teachers/staff that stood out throughout your journey?

T: I owe nearly all of my success in high school to my teachers and club advisors. The Smithtown Business Department led by CTE chairperson Christine LoFrese has had such a big influence on my future and I express gratitude to all within the department.

P: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

T: In 10 years I hope to have my very own business as I chase my passion to become an entrepreneur. If this scenario does not come to fruition, I hope to start as an investment banker out of college.

P: Name a fun fact about yourself.

T: I am an avid darts player and fan.