Long before he was teaching science at DVC San Ramon, Dr. Matthew Fein was a community college student wondering what came next. Back then, he was earning his Associate of Arts degree at Orange Coast Community College in Southern California, not yet imagining he’d one day be leading anatomy, physiology and microbiology classes.
With a growing interest in the sciences, he transferred to California State University, East Bay, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in general biology and physiology while conducting research on Avian Botulism and Cholera with the East Bay Regional Park District. His academic pursuits then took him overseas to the Philippines, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine from Far Eastern University NRMF.
After earning his medical degree abroad, Dr. Fein returned to the Bay Area and soon found a home at DVC, where he started as an adjunct professor and was quickly inspired by the college’s supportive, student-focused environment.
“What drew me to DVC was the college’s commitment to students and the learning communities available on campus. DVC knows how to use every resource to help each student and provide them with the opportunity to be the best version of themselves, regardless of their background.”
Now, as the newest full-time biology instructor at DVC San Ramon, Dr. Fein is doing what he loves most: helping students find their path, just as he found his. He currently rotates between teaching anatomy, physiology and microbiology, and his passion for teaching is deeply rooted in his admiration for his students.
“They are some of the most ambitious and incredible people I have met,” he says. Witnessing students succeed — especially those entering competitive medical programs — inspires him to continually elevate his teaching. “I know that every student who leaves my classroom is ready to take on the challenge of whatever field of medicine they have chosen.”
One of Dr. Fein’s biggest goals as an educator is to make learning more affordable and accessible for everyone. He’s working toward making all of his classes zero-cost courses, meaning students won’t have to pay for textbooks or materials. He’s already made major progress, recently creating a free microbiology textbook that’s saving each student more than $200.
When he’s not in the lab or lecture hall, Dr. Fein enjoys hiking with his rescue dogs, gardening, savoring great food and 3D printing.
To students considering DVC, Dr. Fein offers this advice: “DVC is a gateway of opportunity. Every professor wants to see you succeed. You’ll find more than just classes here - you’ll discover a supportive community dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. This is one of the best places to build the foundation for your future.”
Dr. Fein’s journey proves that big dreams can start in small classrooms — and at DVC San Ramon, those dreams have a home.
Curious about a career in science? Discover what DVC’s biology program can do for you!
