Matthew Capel
M.A.Ed. in Secondary Education, Social Studies & ESL Certificate
Curriculum and Instruction
- 2024, William & Mary, Master of Arts in Education, Secondary Education, Social Studies & ESL Certificate
- 2023, William & Mary, Bachelor of Arts, History and Government
What kind of educational and professional experiences did you have prior to beginning this degree?
By far, my work as an admissions tour guide was the most meaningful part of my undergraduate experience. I valued the opportunity to share my experiences with prospective students, but more than that, I was honored to learn their stories and help them envision themselves as a part of the W&M community. In a way, this was preparation for my future as an educator— an opportunity to help students follow their goals and achieve success.
As a student pursuing a master's degree in Social Studies Education, why did you choose this field and what motivates you in this work?
I am blessed to have a tight-knit bond with my three younger sisters and I first discovered my love of teaching in my role as their protective older brother. They taught me the value of being open to learning from your students— they never miss an opportunity to tease me or call me out on my shortcomings, and have certainly helped shape me into the man I am today.
In addition to my time with my siblings, I have always enjoyed working with children. In my time as a summer camp counselor, substitute teacher, and mentor, I have cherished the experience of making a difference in the life of a child. Teaching, then, seemed the perfect combination of interests— a way to blend my passion for history, my commitment to service, and my appreciation for working with children into a meaningful and rewarding career.
What do you hope to be doing after graduation? In 10 or 15 years?
Despite my passion for education, I'm not yet sure where I would like to end up. I have a real interest in classroom teaching but am also drawn to higher education, based on my experiences working in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and the Dean of Students Office as a W&M undergrad. I'm also curious to explore non-classroom education settings, such as museum education, historical interpretation, or national park administration. As such, this degree program serves as the perfect foundation and launching point, providing me with the opportunity to learn valuable skills and gain meaningful experience which will help guide my career exploration. No matter where my career takes me, I know that I want to live a life of service and education— what better way to start than in a public school classroom?
Why did you choose William & Mary and specifically your degree program? What sets this degree program apart from those offered at other colleges?
I chose W&M for the people— it is rare to find a group of people who are so genuine, engaged, and close-knit. Each moment of my time here has been shaped by the university's strong sense of community, and I am grateful for the warmth and support it provides. I discovered this community as an undergrad, but it has followed me into my graduate studies— my application process was smoothed by professors and administrators who showed a genuine interest in me, and who have continued to support me as I enrolled and began my studies.
What has been the most influential experience you've had so far in your program?
As a part of the W&M Teacher in Residence program, I am employed full-time at New Kent Middle School. This has been the perfect complement to my graduate studies— not only am I studying the art of education, but I have the chance to put it into practice each and every day. I'm only a few months into my degree program, but the experience I have gained as a resident teacher has helped me become far more confident, creative, and prepared to become an educator. And experiential learning aside, it means the world to me to have 150 eleven-year old cheerleaders invested in my teaching journey and encouraging me to succeed.
Do you have any additional information you think a prospective student should know about the School of Education and its degree programs?
In addition to my M.A.Ed. in social studies curriculum & instruction, I am also earning a certificate in ESL instruction. I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone interested in classroom teaching— the practical skills and ethic of compassion I am learning will undoubtedly serve me well in the classroom, regardless of whether I go on to teach ESL instruction. In addition, the faculty of the ESL department are so kind and supportive— their words of encouragement have been a source of great comfort to me as I balance work, school, and life.
