Matt Marin’s collegiate education began at South Plains College, where he earned an Associate Degree in Theatre Arts in 2021. He then transferred to McMurry and graduated with a BFA in Theatre this past May.
During his time at McMurry, Marin was a key player in the theatre community. You may have seen him perform as Gaston in “Beauty and the Beast” or Jake in “Jake’s Women.” His involvement in theatre honed his skills in the arts and facilitated many meaningful connections.
Marin had an interesting summer in pursuit of his first post-graduation job. Having applied to several high schools without receiving responses due to his lack of a teaching certificate or learning that the positions had been filled by others, Marin made a significant pivot in his professional trajectory. He left his part-time “college job” at HTeaO to pursue an opportunity in the banking sector.
To Marin’s surprise, just a week into his on-the-job training at the bank, Andrews High School (AHS) recognized his potential and extended him an offer for their head theatre director position. He found himself torn between continuing at the bank, where he had already accepted a job, and embracing the opportunity with AHS, which better aligned with his envisioned career path.
In a moment of deep reflection, Marin recalled the influential figure of his middle school theatre teacher, Lou Lindsey, who had encouraged him to audition for the UIL One Act Play—an audition that proved to be transformative and laid the foundation for his life’s direction. Listening to his heart, which echoed his true calling in theatre and passion for education, Marin submitted his resignation at the bank and enthusiastically accepted the theatre director position at Andrews.
Marin completed his alternative teaching certification in late July and spent the last semester finding immense reward in witnessing his students overcome obstacles in their artistic journeys. He recently directed “How to Get Away with a Murder Mystery,” and is preparing for upcoming shows including Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” and the middle school UIL One Act Play, “Everyman in the Circus of Life.”
Acknowledging the challenges inherent with transitioning from student to working professional, Marin has embraced his initial job-hunting missteps as valuable learning opportunities. Now his long-term career goals, focused on personal development as a teacher and witnessing the success of his students, align with the career path he always envisioned for himself.
For those on the cusp of graduating, Marin offers sage advice, “Do not make decisions based on the interest of others. Find what makes you happy and stick to it. Keep those you love around you!”
To other first-year teachers, Marin’s advice is grounded in authenticity: “Take it one day at a time and be yourself! Mistakes will happen, but be patient and forgiving.” He also acknowledges that teaching doesn’t come without its challenges. The most difficult aspect for him has been finding time for rest and self-care.
As Marin continues to weave dreams and inspire lives, his story stands as an example of the remarkable journey that unfolds when you realize through trial and error your true passions.
Gratefully taking each day as it comes, Marin finds genuine excitement in his future.
Do you or an alum you know have a great post-McMurry story? We’d love to feature YOU! Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@mcm.edu to schedule an interview.