If you’re tired of playing the same “professional” game and ready to be your authentic self at work, at school and in life, then you have come to the right place!

 

Awesomely Authentic focuses on the issues and journeys of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans* and Queer (LGBTQ+) individuals as they find that right job/internship, college or career fit. We also care for and include the intersectionality of all identities. Everyone is welcome at Awesomely Authentic!

 

It is our goal to help assist LGBTQ+ and minority voices to raise up our communities in the professional world. 

Matthew French (He/Him/His) is the Founder and ‘90s-nostalgic brain behind Awesomely Authentic, a career-coaching, and inclusion organization that focuses on the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ people as they navigate the milestones of choosing a college to attend, searching for that perfect job, or making your company more inclusive. 

 

With ten years of experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, eight years of professional career coaching, and a love of the ‘90s, he has blended all of these aspects together to create an authentically high-energy tailored experience to each client in order to help them reach their professional and career goals. 

 

Why the ‘90s, you ask? This was an era of aberrance, vibrant colors, and animated cartoons that have influenced the way Awesomely Authentic operates. The search for a college, internship, job, or even tackling your D&I Initiatives can be daunting, but we believe that ‘90s-era fun can be achieved along the way! 

 

Matthew currently works and resides in Charlotte, North Carolina where he works as the Assistant Director for Employer Relations at UNC Charlotte to connect Employers with UNCC students and alumni. Prior to UNCC, he was a Career Counselor and Employer Liason at Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. He also served as a graduate assistant at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia all while he was the Internship Coordinator and Liaison for OUT for Work. Matthew has a Master of Arts degree in Lifespan and Digital Communication, and a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Old Dominion University. 

 

During his spare time, Matthew enjoys spending time with his partner, Austin, their four dogs, two cats, and an aquarium of tropical fish! You can find him outside, at the movies, or in the local comic book shop geeking out over superheroes—his favorite is Storm from Marvel Comics. His work has been highlighted in national career development associations, CNN Business, LGBTQ+ non-profits, and more! Matthew's heart and love of authenticity are infectious and a much-needed ingredient for your next adventure.