Matt Gethers, a champion MIT fencer, received a 2009 Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University. Gethers has participated in numerous research opportunities while at MIT, including with former MIT bioengineer Drew Endy. He initiated a research collaboration with an institute in Bangkok, Thailand that permitted six other MIT students to travel as well.

In addition, Gethers has engaged in public service work, with the MIT Emergency Medical Service, and as a tutor for Cambridge Public School students. He has served as the vice president for the MIT chapter of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.