W&L’s Matthew Flynn ’25 Awarded Fulbright to Finland Flynn will pursue a master’s degree in digital social science at LUT University in Finland.

By Emily Innes
June 6, 2025

Washington and Lee University graduate Matthew Flynn ’25 has received a Fulbright-LUT University Graduate Award to pursue a master’s degree at LUT University in Finland. At W&L, Flynn double majored in cognitive and behavioral science and music and minored in data science. Flynn is from Ashburn, Virginia, and graduated from Briar Woods High School.

With the Fulbright award, Flynn will pursue a master’s degree in digital social science and is eager to fully immerse himself in his studies and deepen his research skills for a career in social or clinical psychology.

“Being awarded this opportunity is a profound honor,” said Flynn. “It represents not only a chance to explore the psychologically beneficial practices in our rapidly evolving world, but also a gateway to gaining independent research experience and enhancing my technical skills through a structured and innovative program in digital social science.”

Flynn credits his experiences at W&L with deepening his appreciation for cultural expression and community, particularly the opportunity to travel to Northern Ireland and sing “The Derry Air” (“Danny Boy”) with the University Singers, led by Shane Lynch, director of choral activities.

Lynch agrees that traveling the world with the ensemble allowed Flynn to become a “true global ambassador” for W&L.

“Matt embodies the qualities of a Fulbright scholar,” Lynch said. “He is a caring person who brings a true curiosity and desire to share with others to every room he enters. I have no doubt he will continue to explore mutual understanding and growth in Finland next year as a global ambassador for the entire country.”

The support Flynn received from his faculty mentors profoundly shaped his academic career. He is grateful to Lynch for inspiring him to pursue his passions “with unwavering dedication,” and to Karla Murdock, the Jo M. and James M. Ballengee Professor of Cognitive and Behavioral Science, and Wythe Whiting, professor of cognitive and behavioral science, for their role in shaping his approach to both research and creative expression.

In addition to his involvement with the University Singers, Flynn was a member of the a cappella groups General Admission and Glee Club, as well as the choral conducting mentorship program. He served as a University Ambassador and was involved with the technology, health and cognition research lab, the religious/spiritual life committee and club table tennis.

With the Fulbright award, Flynn will depart in July to participate in an intensive language and culture program before beginning his first semester in August. Upon completion of the program, Flynn plans to leverage the skills and experiences he gains in Finland to pursue graduate studies in social or clinical psychology, with a focus on understanding how cultural influences shape wellbeing.

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Washington and Lee University is proud to be included on the list of U.S. colleges and universities that produced the most 2024-2025 Fulbright U.S. Students for the seventh consecutive year.

The Fulbright Program was established more than 75 years ago to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. Fulbright is the world’s largest and most diverse international educational exchange program. The primary source of funding for the Fulbright Program is an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

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