Arriving at the University of Mary Washington from Ireland, rugby player Matthew Clinton planned to study computer science. But sometimes the best discoveries happen when you decide to change course. Now a senior majoring in communication and digital studies, Clinton has found his true calling as a visual storyteller.
His pivot opened doors he never expected, including a two-year video production internship with Mary Washington’s University Communications department. From earning a statewide top intern honor to producing a presidential podcast, playing rugby and managing social media for the team, Clinton has made the most of every opportunity UMW has had to offer.
During his video production internship, he conceived, shot and edited “Global Perspectives: The International Student Experience at UMW,” a four-part video series documenting the lives of UMW’s international students. The series earned him a “Best Content Creator” award. Later, he joined the UMW men’s basketball team for its NCAA Division III national championship win in Indianapolis, assisting with coverage for UMW social media channels.
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“I have loved every minute of my internship with University Communications,” Clinton said. “It was a great way for me to get experience, learn more about the industry and the opportunities available.”
Clinton’s work has also been recognized beyond UMW. Selected from a competitive pool of 121 nominees who worked at Virginia-based organizations, he was named one of Virginia’s Top 50 Interns by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) – an honor recognizing interns who distinguished themselves through initiative, leadership and results. “This was a huge achievement,” Clinton said. “I am incredibly honored to be recognized among such a select group.”
Clinton also supported UMW’s recently launched podcast, What Matters Most With President Paino, by editing and producing episodes. The role drew on skills he developed during his internship and in the classroom, further expanding his portfolio in digital media. “I didn’t have any prior experience in podcast production,” Clinton said. “But when the opportunity arose, I knew I’d enjoy it and that it would diversify my skillset and help me in the job market.”
He has taken his skillset to the rugby pitch as well, serving as social media manager for the men’s rugby team. When injuries sidelined him from playing, he moved to capturing and editing game footage and providing livestream commentary and technical support, turning a setback into a new opportunity.
Beyond media, Clinton has served as a Resident Assistant (RA) on campus, supporting UMW’s residential community as a member of the Residence Life and Housing staff. The role sharpened skills he carries into every corner of his life at Mary Washington, such as time management, interpersonal communication and conflict resolution.
Raven Jackson, a consultant who works with UMW digital media students each semester, praised Clinton’s dedication. “He takes feedback seriously, and it shows in his work,” she said. “He’s very passionate about his craft.”
That passion will carry into his life beyond UMW. Clinton is aiming for a job in video or podcast production and possibly running his own production company one day. With skills that extend beyond technical knowledge, he feels prepared to take on whatever comes next.
“UMW has been the best experience for me in and out of the classroom,” Clinton said. “I’m ready for life after Mary Washington thanks to my liberal arts education. I’m walking away a better person and the friends, connections and memories I have made along the way will always stay with me.”
