Last week, I had the opportunity to talk with faculty member Mr. Michael Velez ’00. On campus, Mr. Velez can be found teaching history, working as a third form dean, and coaching Boys’ Varsity Football, Hockey, and Lacrosse. As a former Choate student who graduated in the Class of 2000, I wanted to learn more about his perspective as a faculty member, and how he plans to move forward as the next Dean of Students.
Q: Where are you from?
A: South Windsor, CT.
Q: What is your favorite song?
A: “Where the Streets Have No Name,” by U2.
Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: The (original) Bourne Trilogy.
Q: What is your favorite sport to watch?
A: Football.
Q: In one to three words, describe what it was like coming back to Choate after being a student here.
A: Eye opening.
Q: What is one thing you wish people knew about you?
A: I interviewed for a job with the CIA.
Q: What is your favorite thing about living in a dorm?
A: Hearing about everyone’s day.
Q: What is the best purchase you have ever made?
A: My wife’s engagement and wedding rings.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: The Beautiful Struggle, by Ta-Nehisi Coates.
Q: What is one talent you wish you had?
A: Playing the piano.
Q: Who would play you in a movie about your life?
A: Adam Sandler.
Q: What was the craziest thing you ever did as a Choate student?
A: I helped to design an underground shirt for Deerfield Day ’99.
Q: What is the best gift you have ever received?
A: A signed football from Tom Brady, slightly deflated.
Q: What is the best gift you have ever given?
A: Grandchildren.
Q: If you could visit any place in the world, where would you go?
A: Greece.
Q: What is one thing you wish you tried while a Choate student?
A: Writing for a student publication.
Q: What is your favorite thing about having three (soon to be four!) daughters?
A: The chaos!
Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years?
A: Still working in education.
Q: What is one goal you would like to accomplish during your lifetime?
A: Visit every U.S. Presidential Library and Museum.
Q: What is one topic of U.S. or world history that has always interested you most?
A: The American Civil War.
Q: What is the most valuable piece of advice you have ever been given?
A: Remember that loyalty is a two-way street.
Q: What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics?
A: Bobsled.
Q: Did you always want to be a teacher?
A: No, I wanted to be a veterinarian.
Q: What are you most excited about as the incoming Dean of Students?
A: Collaborating with various groups on campus to make the student experience the best one possible.
Q: What are you most nervous about as the incoming Dean of Students?
A: Understanding and supporting the ever-changing needs of our students.
