Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Matthew Meisel entered the corporate world after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from Arizona State University, but soon after, he returned to ASU for his master’s degree to pursue a more fulfilling path.
Integrating empathy into his leadership roles comes naturally to Meisel and he pursued this passion further in his thesis to earn his organizational leadership master’s program in ASU’s School of Applied Professional Studies, part of the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.
In his various leadership roles across the corporate and academic sectors, empathy enabled Meisel to “effectively make complex ideas accessible to a wide audience,” said David Thomas, teaching professor in the School of Applied Professional Studies.
Thomas added that Meisel’s thesis provided a clear, evidence-based framework for how leaders can operationalize empathy.”
Following graduation, Meisel plans to apply this framework to a career in law enforcement — an industry he says he looks forward to contributing to.
“His decision to pivot toward a career that prioritizes public service, speaks to his character and his desire to make a meaningful impact on society,” said Christopher Glover, an instructor in the School of Applied Professional Studies.
Meisel says he learned a lot in Glover’s organizational leadership courses, which he then supported as an instructional aid.
“His feedback was always insightful, thorough and constructive — pushing students to think more deeply and engage more fully in course material,” Glover said.
Along the thread of serving others, Miesel was president of Omicron Delta Kappa, the national leadership honor society, and actively participated in ASU’s Graduate Student Government where he advocated for graduate student needs and interests.
“We have more in common than many think,” Meisel said. “If we could come together and better understand each other’s positions, the world may be a safer and more sustainable place.”
Question: Why did you choose ASU?
Answer: I chose ASU based on the flexibility of class schedules, the focus on inclusion and innovation, and its award-winning programs.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: As a non-traditional student, I thought I would feel awkward or be on the outside looking in. I can share that no matter what your socioeconomic background is, ASU will embrace you as a student. It is up to you to put in the work, ask questions and seek guidance where applicable. Have fun, do not stress and most importantly, take care of yourself as you navigate an incredible academic journey.
Q: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?
A: I have been in a leadership role for many years and attempting to pivot careers during the COVID pandemic proved to be challenging, so I decided to further my education in hopes of breaking away from a crumbling industry.
Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom, lab or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: My ability to conduct research and dive into a given subject. I never thought I would enjoy writing research papers, but the teachings at ASU have turned my weaknesses into strengths.
Q: What was your research focused on?
A: My thesis focused on empathy and furthering empathy in the workplace to enhance recognition, retention, employee morale and productivity.
Q: Thinking back, what do you think is the most interesting moment or story or accomplishment in your ASU journey?
A: I came to ASU to simply obtain a degree and move on. What I have discovered are partnerships and friendships that will last a lifetime. The professors in the undergraduate and graduate programs at the school truly care about their students. I was going through a difficult time midway through my master’s program and professors Christopher Glover and Brent Scholar were instrumental in providing guidance, advice and listening when I was struggling. Despite being an online student, these conversations helped me navigate my challenges and made me a stronger student.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU and what was it?
A: It is hard to pinpoint one professor, as I have learned so much from many of them. I spent the most time with Professor Chris Glover, through four undergraduate classes and then as his instructional aide for more than two years. Chris shared his knowledge of how he navigated his master's program and was always available to discuss new ideas and thought processes.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I have recently pivoted out of the private corporate industry and now work in the public government sector. I will continue to pursue this career path, seeking to keep the community safe and prosperous in these uncertain times.
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