Matthew O’Hara ’24

Matthew O’Hara ’24 | Computer Science and Criminology Major and Web Design Minor

Matthew O’Hara ’24 is pursuing his Master of Science in Engineering, Science, and Technology, Entrepreneurship Excellence at the University of Notre Dame’s ESTEEM program, where students are immersed in an entrepreneurial experience while gaining skills in running a business or working in a technology field. 

He is grateful for his time at Saint Anselm as he was involved in multiple student organizations while majoring in Computer Science and Criminology and minoring in Web Design.
 

What is unique about the Computer Science program at Saint Anselm?

I think the most unique thing about the Computer Science program is the class size. Saint Anselm has just the perfect amount where you not only get to know everyone in your class very well but also your professors. This lets us work with fellow students to leverage each other’s skill sets and be able to communicate and collaborate on projects. 

The same goes for professors; because the professors and students know each other so well, they can assist with problems that students are having in class. They can teach you things that you are more interested in and they just know a lot more about you. I think we have that perfect balance where you have this community being formed but also, this support network that is being structured.

Why did you come to Saint Anselm College?

My family has had a little bit of a legacy at Saint Anselm College. My dad and a lot of my family have gone here in the past as well. It is a school that when I was applying for college, was always on my radar. 

And, when I originally toured the school, I just loved it. It is a beautiful school and I liked the size. I liked that small community feel. I went to a Mass here and I thought it was great. I was just really interested in being a part of the Saint Anselm community because my family has spoken so highly of it. Being here now, I see why.

What did you enjoy most about Saint Anselm?

I would say the friends that I have made. I met individuals from all different areas, backgrounds, and states. 

Whether it was through computer science, my job, or just even random chance, I have enjoyed getting to know people, finding similar interests, and doing things together. 

I enjoyed having the routine with my friends and that built up my love for Saint Anselm because the community embraced me. 

What clubs and organizations were you involved in at Saint Anselm?

I was the vice president for the Saint Anselm Gaming Association (SAGA) for a couple of years, which I recommend to STEM students or those looking for a way to reach out to the community. 

I was also a member of the College Republicans. I like Saint Anselm’s political culture because through these clubs I met so many interesting political figures. At the same time, I like the relationship the College Republicans and College Democrats have; it is very friendly and a lot of us are friends outside the club. 

I appreciate how we set up these common ground debates, where the heads of each program work together to discuss important issues, and get to the root of the society’s problems. I have enjoyed that experience because it allows everyone to see the other side but it also humanizes them. 

I also played Ultimate Frisbee, was on a Relay for Life team, and worked at the Saint Anselm College HelpDesk. I made tons of friendships there and it was a very rewarding experience.

Who was your favorite professor at Saint Anselm College?

I would say Professor Bouchard. He was my Conversatio professor and was my first window into Saint Anselm College life. I enjoyed his classes and the passion that he has for students. He was also a frequent visitor to the HelpDesk, so I always got to keep in touch with him. 

As a senior I took his course “Lovers, Liars, and Lunatics.” It was a fun class where we talked about the different ways human emotions and conditions are expressed through art, like poetry. I enjoyed his passion and lightheartedness. He tries to make class material understandable for every one because, at the end of the day, art is for everyone.

Why did you choose the ESTEEM Master’s Program at Notre Dame?

Looking into the ESTEEM program, I found it to be an excellent deal because I’m getting my master’s degree in 11 months, while most master’s programs are usually two years. In addition, I am learning how to start and develop a business.

ESTEEM has the resources to help you get that business off the ground while you are working as a student. In addition, there’s a Capstone project, which is a unique part of the program where you are working with a company as an employee. 

You get to create some really interesting and innovative products that push the boundaries of what that company has been working on in the past. It’s great to have on my resume and it's unique; a program that you are not going to find that anywhere else.

What are your plans after you finish the ESTEEM Program?

After ESTEEM, I am hoping to become a software engineer or a cybersecurity engineer. I am also interested in project management or being a technical lead at a company. I love all things technical. 

I have experience in development, security, testing, and all sorts of different fields, so I would like a job that touches on all of those aspects or at least lets me focus on leading and helping a team to achieve a common goal.