TFS - Canada's International School

DESTINATION / DESTINATION University of Toronto PROGRAMME / PROGRAM Engineering Science MATTHEW L. Music has played a central role in Matthew's journey at TFS. Among his most memorable experiences was performing at MusicFest Canada Nationals, the largest educational music festival in North America. As a clarinetist, Matthew played in both the Festival Wind Ensemble and the Senior Wind Ensemble. "We've taken on incredibly difficult pieces and pushed ourselves each time," says the former West Campus student. "That challenge is what makes it so rewarding." The Wind Ensemble competed in the festival's highest level in 2024 and 2025. "Only two schools in the country entered that category this year," he says. "The other group was composed of more senior students, whereas we span from Level I to Level V. At TFS, it's not about selecting only the best musicians—we take everyone who's interested and build them up." A TFS student since PK, Matthew says French, like music, came naturally to him. "It felt natural growing up with French," he says. "Especially at the West Campus. It was so immersive, and I didn't even realize how much I had absorbed until I went on an exchange to Switzerland in Grade 7 and found myself able to fully communicate with my host family." It was in Grade 4 that Matthew discovered his love of music. He joined the West Campus band and began learning the clarinet. He also played violin and piano and plans to stay involved in music throughout his post-secondary studies. Now studying engineering science at the University of Toronto, Matthew reflects, "Music is, and always will be, how I destress. It's something I look forward to." That said, it's also a lot of work. Balancing rehearsals with academics and other commitments—like cross-country and track and field—wasn't always easy. But Matthew credits supportive teachers and guidance counsellors with helping him along the way. Academically, Matthew pursued HL math, chemistry, and physics in the IB program. He combined his passions in his Extended Essay, which focused on the mathematical analysis of musical harmonies. His involvement with the Climate Action Team and his Level III personal project on sustainable menu design sparked a deeper interest in environmental science. "Eventually, I'd love to work in renewable energy, combining my interests in science, engineering and the planet," he says. That passion began early, thanks in part to his kindergarten teacher, Mme Brigitte Matthey, who helped nurture his appreciation for nature. "She really emphasized taking care of the planet. We'd often go on trips to local parks with an environmental educator to pick up trash and learn about the world around us." As a graduate, he's eager to offer advice to younger students. "Try to stay open-minded," he says. "Explore different aspects of the TFS community to see where you feel most at home. That's what will anchor you throughout your studies." 51 TFS

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