Q&A with this month’s #PlattProfile, Matthew McCormick.
McCormick speaks about how J. Wood Platt helped him build his professional network.
(This interview has been edited for clarity and length.)
Q: How old are you?
A: I am 22.
Q: What school are you currently attending?
A: University of South Carolina.
Q: How do you like it there?
A: Love it! It’s been in the 80’s all week, can’t beat it!
Q: When do you graduate?
A: I graduate this May.
Q: What is your major?
A: I am a double major in finance and risk management insurance.
Q: How did you decide on that major?
A: I knew I wanted to go in business and also knew I wanted to work with numbers but also work with people. Something that caddying has really taught me is people skills because you always meet different people with different attitudes on the golf course.
Q: Do you participate in activities in school? Clubs?
A: I am in a fraternity Beta Theta Pi and I am also in Gamma Iota Sigma which is a risk management fraternity.
Q: Do you have any hobbies?
A: I would say golfing definitely and any outdoor activities. Love being outside
Q: What golf club do you caddie for?
A: Manufacturer’s Golf and Country Club
Q: How long have you been caddying?
A: uh, 7 years. Yes, this summer would be my 8th.
Q: How did you start caddying?
A: Golf has always been a big thing in my family as I was growing up. When it was time, in the beginning of high school, to start a job, I juggled a couple of different jobs. I lifeguarded as well as caddied for two years, but I realized where the money is and what I enjoyed more.
Q: What is your favorite thing about caddying?
A: Meeting new people and getting their perspectives on what they do, learning about different jobs, and getting to interact with others.
Q: How did you hear about J. Wood Platt?
A: So, I heard about J. Wood Platt through Manufacturer’s and I’ve been really grateful for it. It’s really changed not only my life but my brother’s lives as well, they are also J. Wood Platt scholars. It was really great to receive the scholarship and we are extremely thankful for it.
Q: What are your long-term goals? Think 5 to 10 years
A: I just recently accepted a job offer from AmWINS as an associate underwriter and part of their Underwriting Development Program Class of 2021. I plan on continuing to pursue a career in the insurance industry and am extremely excited for the next part of my life after graduation.
Q: What is something that happened to you while caddying that you will never forget?
A: Nothing out of the ordinary, but I have met some amazing people and made some lifelong friendships with other caddies over my seven years.
Q: What advice would you give your younger self as a caddie or a new caddie just starting?
A: Be outgoing and friendly with members and try to form a relationship with them. Caddying goes beyond the game of golf, there are many possible connections and opportunities that can go a long way for a younger caddy. In addition, be the one who sets the pace of play and keep up.
Q: How has J. Wood Platt changed your life?
A: J. Wood Platt has been extremely beneficial for myself and my family. Aside from financial aid, J. Wood Platt has allowed me to meet many people who have had an impact on my professional development and helped me grow my professional network. As a junior, I had an internship with Kevin Gallagher (member at Philadelphia Cricket Club) and OneBeacon Insurance Group (now Intact Insurance Specialty Solutions), despite the pandemic. I had met Kevin at the annual Caddie Brunch, and we stayed in touch following. I am extremely grateful for that opportunity and his mentorship, and it would not have been possible without J. Wood Platt.
J. Wood Platt Caddie Scholarship Trust
The Trust’s mission, which has remained constant since its inception in 1958, is to financially aid deserving caddies in their pursuit of higher education. The J. Wood Platt Caddie Scholarship Trust was created by GAP through the efforts of then President Walter A. Schmidt; Leo Fraser, President of the local section of Professional Golfers Association of America; and Albert Keeping, Golf Professional at Gulph Mills Golf Club. It was named in honor of Philadelphia’s premier golfer of the era, J. Wood Platt. Not only was Mr. Platt an accomplished player, but he was also the Trust’s co-founder and first contributor.
