Matthew Roe

matt roeBS ('07), MS ('08) mechanical engineering

Occupation: Acoustic consultant, SSA Acoustics
Residence: Seattle, WA
Family: Wife Catey

Why did you choose to attend the University of Rochester?

As an engineering major with a desire to study music as well, Rochester provided one of the only options for a school with a flexible curriculum to allow me to do both. I was able to cluster in Music Performance, and participate in the Midnight Ramblers a cappella group to supplement all the left brain study I was getting with my engineering degree.

What activities were you involved in as a student and what did you gain from them?

I was involved in the Midnight Ramblers, and the Delta Upsilon Fraternity primarily.  Not only were both groups a lot of fun, they taught me about how to be an effective leader and an ambassador of the University, both in the local Rochester area, as well as internationally.  I'm extremely proud of my involvement in both groups, and enjoy hearing how both groups continue to thrive on campus.

What did you do immediately after graduation? How did you decide to take that path?

I stayed and received my master's degree in mechanical engineering after I graduated.  I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do with my degree, and this additional study allowed me to explore a few different subjects in more depth as I made a decision on a career path.

What do you do now and why did you choose this career?

I am an acoustic consultant now, meaning that I work with architects and engineers as they design buildings to make sure they function properly acoustically.  This career was a great way to merge the technical engineering I learned with my love of music and music performance, as I get to work on designing the spaces that musicians use everyday. (Editor's note: Click here to read a Rochester Review article about one of Roe's more unusual assignments: Helping document a record-setting stadium roar by Seattle Seahawks fans.)

How do you balance your work and personal life?

While I wish I could say I've got this one all figured out, I simply can't!  It's easy to bring stress and angst home with you at the end of the day, and it's important to work to find ways to constructively decompress. I find that time spent hiking, and biking outside goes a long way towards developing this balance, but a healthy appreciation for the great beers of the Pacific Northwest doesn't hurt either.