Matthew McNamee
- Honours Bachelor of Cognitive Science with Concentration in Cognition & Psychology (2021)
Matt earned his Bachelor of Cognitive Science (Honours), with a concentration in Cognition and Psychology, in 2021. Following graduation, he completed a Master of Public Policy and Administration at Carleton University and currently works as a Policy Analyst at Global Affairs Canada, while also serving as the business owner of Oasis Painting.
“Do not be afraid to try new things, especially if you are not completely sure where you want to end up. Very few people have everything figured out right after graduation, and that is okay. Sometimes the best way to find direction is to start somewhere, learn from the experience, and adjust as you go.
I would also say not to get discouraged if something feels unfamiliar at first. A lot can be learned with time, effort, and consistency. If you are willing to put in the work, ask questions, and stay open to different opportunities, you can build a path that fits your interests and strengths.“
Brief description of what I do!
I am a graduate of Carleton’s Cognitive Science program and recently completed my Master of Public Policy and Administration. I currently work in policy at Global Affairs Canada, where I support real property policy and strategy for Canada’s international platform. Alongside my public service work, I also run Oasis Painting, an Ottawa-based painting company, where I manage operations, client relations, and business development.
What inspired your career path after graduation?
After graduation, I was drawn to a few different areas at once. I had a strong interest in government, public policy, and international affairs, which eventually led me toward my MPPA and my work at Global Affairs Canada. I liked the idea of working on issues that connect to how government operates and how decisions are made in a broader public context.
At the same time, I’ve always had an interest in business and entrepreneurship. Running Oasis Painting has given me a very different but equally valuable kind of experience, where I’m managing people, working with clients, solving problems, and building something of my own. My path has been shaped by a mix of interests rather than one single plan, but that variety has been one of the most valuable parts of it.
How did your experience in the psychology program shape your journey?
My experience in psychology helped me better understand how people think, communicate, and make decisions. That has been useful in almost everything I have done since graduating. In running Oasis Painting, it has helped me understand client needs, communicate clearly, and build trust throughout a project. A lot of client satisfaction comes down to listening carefully, setting expectations, and making people feel confident in the process.
In my work at Global Affairs Canada, that same foundation has helped me collaborate with different teams and stakeholders. Policy work often involves balancing different perspectives, asking the right questions, and making sure people feel heard. My background in psychology gave me a strong starting point for that kind of work.
What skills or experiences were most valuable after graduation?
The most valuable skills after graduation were learning how to research, think critically, and approach problems from different angles. Whether I am working in government or running a business, a lot of the work comes down to understanding the situation properly before deciding what to do next.
I have also realized that learning does not stop at graduation. After university, you are constantly being put in new situations where you have to figure things out, adapt, and build confidence as you go. For me, having a variety of experiences has been really valuable. Working in policy and running a business are very different, but both have pushed me to communicate well, stay organized, solve problems, and keep learning.
What has been a highlight or proud moment in your career so far?
A highlight has been seeing my path develop in two different but meaningful directions. On one hand, I have been able to work in policy at Global Affairs Canada, contributing to government work connected to Canada’s international platform. On the other hand, I have built and grown Oasis Painting, which has taught me a lot about leadership, business, and client service. I am proud of both because they reflect different sides of what I care about: public service, practical problem-solving, and building something meaningful.