Christina De Mattheis ’19: From Buzzer Beater to Veterinary Dreams

From hitting a game-winning buzzer beater that made history for the MBS girls basketball team to studying veterinary medicine in the Caribbean, Christina De Mattheis ’19 has taken her passion and drive far beyond the classroom. Now a student at St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine in Grenada, Christina is pursuing her dream of helping animals while still cherishing her time at MBS.

Q: You traveled to Panama during your time at MBS. What was that experience like?

I participated in a service trip my junior year during my time at MBS. I traveled to Panama with a group from my class where we assisted young children with education, built and painted schools, and played with the local children. The trip opened my eyes to parts of the world that were impoverished and in need of assistance. To this day, I say that if I had the opportunity to go back on that trip again, I would do it in a heartbeat. We were also surrounded by stray animals in need of care and medical attention. This was one of the factors that drove me to pursue my dream of being a veterinarian. Upon completion of the trip, I prayed I would be able to contribute in a greater capacity in the future.

Q: How did it feel hitting the buzzer beater to make history for the girls MBS basketball team?

Making the buzzer beater to make history for the girls MBS basketball team was a surreal experience. After a season of ups and downs, our team's hard work and grit made that moment pure joy. It is a moment that I will always remember. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of that team and to share in the excitement of that victory.

Q: What do you miss most from MBS?

Looking back at my years at MBS, some of my favorite memories were taking an anatomy/physiology class, dance class, traveling to away games with Mr. Carr, the girls basketball team heading to the Morristown Diner after Saturday morning practices, and going to School with my sister for the last time.

Q: What are you up to now?

I currently attend St. George’s University, School of Veterinary Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. I love my rustic, island life, and even better, I love what I'm studying. I have loved animals for as long as I can remember, and that lifelong passion is what inspired me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, with the goal of making a meaningful difference in their lives and the lives of people who care for them. I feel as though it is my purpose to advocate for their health and well-being and be a voice for those who don't have one.

Q: Future plans?

My future plans are to graduate from SGU and pursue a specialty. I hope to open my own clinic where I can make a lasting impact on both animals and their owners. I believe I will be truly happy pursuing this career because it allows me to combine my passion for animals with meaningful work that makes a positive difference in their lives every day.

Christina’s journey from making history on the basketball court to studying veterinary medicine in the Caribbean reflects the determination and compassion she cultivated at MBS. Whether caring for animals or creating unforgettable moments with her team, she continues to embody the spirit of hard work, curiosity, and service that defines Crimson alumni.