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Draft:Matthew Mandel

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Matthew Mandel at his undergraduate graduation.

Matthew Mandel (born Matthew Mandel, September 16, 1999) is an American letter carrier and graduate student in library and information sciences at Queens College, City University of New York. Renowned for his dedication to public service and his passion for information accessibility, Mandel has become a local figure in Queens, balancing his work for the United States Postal Service (USPS) with his academic pursuits.

Early Life and Education

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Mandel was born in Elmhurst, Queens, and grew up in a working-class family that emphasized the importance of education and community service. He attended Townsend Harris High School, where he developed a love for literature, history, and the art of communication. After graduating in 2017, Mandel enrolled at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Law & Society in 2022.

Following his undergraduate studies, Mandel explored several career paths, working as a tutor and a personal injury paralegal before deciding to join the USPS in 2024. His job as a letter carrier not only provided stability but also connected him to the neighborhoods he served, deepening his commitment to public engagement.

Career with the USPS

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Since joining the USPS, Mandel has become a well-known and beloved figure in the College Point area of Queens. Known for his punctuality, friendly demeanor, and habit of recommending books to customers on his route, he often receives thank-you notes and holiday cards from residents. His experience delivering mail in a diverse community inspired his interest in how public institutions, like libraries, can foster social cohesion and provide equitable access to knowledge.

Graduate Studies

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In 2024, Mandel enrolled at Queens College to pursue a Master’s degree in Library and Information Sciences (MLIS). Though he has only recently began his studies, he is already incredibly inspired by his coursework and professors alike. Currently, he is enrolled in LBSCI 700: Technology of Information and LBSCI 703: Information Organization. He hopes to continue his studies thru 2027, taking classes part-time while he delivers mail with the USPS.

Personal Life

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Outside of work and school, Mandel is an avid reader, amateur musician, and concert aficionado. He is particularly fond of Queens' diverse culinary scene and enjoys frequenting local music shows and record stores. Mandel lives in Bayside with his family, consisting of his parents and his two sisters.

Legacy and Vision

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Mandel hopes to merge his experience as a postal worker with his future career as a librarian to champion literacy and digital equity in underserved communities.

While his biography might remain unwritten in official history books, Mandel’s dedication to serving his community—whether through delivering letters or someday curating library collections—will surely leave a lasting impact on all those he encounters.