Matthew Broussard

Where do you currently live?

Memphis, TN

What is your current occupation?

College Student

What school did you attend while participating in NHD?

Gentry Junior School, Baytown, TX
and
Impact Early College High School, Baytown TX.

What college did you attend?

Currently attending Rhodes College, pursuing a degree in history with a concentration in US History

Who were your teachers?

Toni Rosenbaum (2010), Jody Roberts (2011), Laura Bagwell (2012), and Steve Koester (2013-2016)

What years and in what category did you participate in NHD?

2010, Individual Performance; 2011, Individual Performance; 2012, Individual Performance; 2013, Individual Performance; 2014, Individual Performance; 2015, Individual Performance; 2016, Group Documentary.

What are a few of your favorite or defining moments from your NHD experience?

My first national win in 7th grade (2011), performing at the Smithsonian for Mr. Behring in my sophomore year (2014), being invited to the British Consulate in Houston for research on the Magna Carta (2014), performing at the Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington for the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association (2015), and winning the Creativity Foundation's Legacy Award (2016).

How did NHD help you after high school?

NHD was the center of my college application. As well as possessing a greater knowledge of history, my writing and research skills gained during NHD have contributed to higher performance across the board. NHD also taught me to think critically and to produce and defend arguments. I also became more confident in speaking publicly It seems to have been the ultimate college preparatory tool. I use my skills learned from NHD every single day.

What recognition did you receive for participating in NHD?

First place in individual performance 2011, 2013, 2014, and in 2015; Magna Carta Prize in 2014; George Washington Leadership in History Award in 2015 and in 2016; Legacy Prize in 2016.

Did you do anything with your NHD project or research after the contest year?

I'm becoming involved in the West TN History Day competition in order to bring the effects of NHD to local junior high and high school students.

What has kept you busy since your days as an NHD student? Any particular challenges, stories, or achievements?

My school, Rhodes College, has one of the highest ranking mock trial teams in the country. Applying my experience from NHD in making arguments and delivering effective presentations is the reason that I'm the only freshman on the A Team, which is the best team at Rhodes has competed nationally for the past 30+ years.

Is there anything else that you would like to share about your NHD experience?

NHD was incredibly important in not only developing my writing, critical thinking, and presentation, but also has shaped my entire life plan. I'm majoring in history because NHD exposed me to my greatest passions: United States history and constitutional law. It's a life changing experience.
Matthew Broussard receiving National History Day award in 2014.Matthew Broussard performing an individual performance entry.