Graduate/Professional Student Spotlight: Matt Horne
Carroll School of Management, MBA/MSF, 2012

Where Matt grew up:
Dedham, MA

Undergraduate Institution:
I received a BA in Economics with a minor in Philosophy in 2004 from Holy Cross. While there, I participated in the Naval ROTC program and was a member of the club rugby team. I also met my wife (Libby) while at school.

Matt’s life pre-BC:

Upon graduation, I was commissioned as a naval officer and began serving my time in the submarine force. Following a 15-month training period which required me to attend navy schools in South Carolina, upstate New York, and Connecticut, I reported onboard USS Philadelphia in Groton, CT. I spent three years attached to USS Philadelphia serving in a variety of roles, which included a deployment in 2007 to the Arabian Gulf in support of the global war on terrorism. Following my tour on USS Philadelphia, I spent two years teaching at the Naval Academy Prep School in Newport, RI. From there, I moved to Boston to attend CGSOM.

What led Matt to Boston College:

I decided to attend Boston College after I spent a day visiting the MBA program where I met some incredible people. I was looking for an MBA program with a strong finance program which would help me make the transition from the military to the financial services industry in Boston. After speaking with numerous alumni and professors, I felt that BC was the best fit for me.

Matt’s experience at BC:

I had a great experience at Boston College. I felt I was academically prepared for my post-MBA experiences. I was fortunate enough to have had outstanding professors who both challenged and supported my growth. Since BC is a smaller program, I was able to get to know my peers well and I still stay in touch with many of them on a frequent basis.

Matt’s current projects:

Following my graduation from CGSOM in May 2012, I started working at Fidelity Investments. I am participating in Fidelity’s two-year leadership development program called the “General Management Apprenticeship.” Since it is a rotational program, I am afforded the opportunity to gain broad exposure to various business groups within Fidelity. I am currently in my first of four six-month rotations where I am working with Fidelity’s Family Office Services group in Boston.

Matt’s Hobbies:

Besides being a fan of all Boston sports, I am spending most of my time these days studying for the CFA. I also try to spend a lot of time on Cape Cod.

Parting words/advice to those interested in pursuing a similar career path:
I entered business school as a career switcher with the intention of entering the financial services industry. I cannot emphasize networking enough and I encourage all BC MBA students to start their internship/job hunt early in the year. Research your choice industry well and do not be afraid to reach out to BC alumni in your target organizations – they will take the call. Additionally, find a mentor in your field of interest and use them to understand the business, gain insight into the necessary skills, and network.