Matthew Haigh
Matthew Scot Haigh (born January 11, 2007) is an American student, researcher, entrepreneur, athlete, and author. He is known for his scientific work in olfaction, leadership in youth entrepreneurship, athletic success at state and national levels, and bestselling children’s books. He graduated as valedictorian of his high school and will attend Boston College as a member of the Class of 2029.
Early Life and Education
Matthew Haigh was born in Leominster, Massachusetts, and raised in nearby Fitchburg. He was born with congenital anosmia, a rare condition marked by a lifelong inability to smell, which became a driving force behind much of his scientific and advocacy work. His summers are spent in Ocean Park, Maine, which sparked a deep appreciation for reflection, memory, and storytelling, all of which have become recurring themes in his creative and academic pursuits.
Haigh graduated as valedictorian of his high school class, known for both academic rigor and community engagement. He will attend Boston College beginning in the fall of 2025.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Scientific Research
Haigh has conducted research at the Monell Chemical Senses Center, one of the world’s leading institutions for the study of taste and smell. Under Dr. Valentina Parma and Dr. Vince Ramirez, his research explored the effects of COVID-19 on children's sense of smell, as well as broader investigations into the role of olfaction in major health conditions.
He later expanded his work to study the connection between olfactory dysfunction and early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, along with exploring how olfactory pathways might relate to cancer growth and progression. His interdisciplinary focus placed him at the intersection of neuroscience, immunology, and sensory health at a young age.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Haigh served as Chief Operating Officer of Trivflic, a tech and social media startup that raised $100,000 and was ranked among Apple’s Top 500 social media apps in 2024. The platform aimed to change how people connect online through fast-paced, trivia-driven interaction.
He is also currently developing Gutter, a modern digital quiz platform inspired by the Rice Purity Test. Designed as a social, introspective tool, Gutter allows users to reflect on and compare their life experiences across multiple themes — from lifestyle habits to personal values. While still in development, it has already drawn attention for its creative potential and relevance in the digital culture space.
Advocacy and Public Policy
Haigh led a nonprofit initiative to return Massachusetts to its original state flag design. The project, which began as a high school idea, grew into a coordinated campaign involving state senators, the mayor of his hometown, and a variety of small businesses. His campaign used a strategic blend of civic outreach, design thinking, and social media marketing, building a digital presence with over 1,000 followers and meaningful public engagement.
Athletic Success
Haigh is a nationally recognized multi-sport athlete:
- He was ranked third in Massachusetts for U18 ski racing in 2025, competing at an elite level in one of the state's most competitive winter sports.
- He qualified for Junior Nationals in weightlifting and received an invitation to compete at the 2024 Bench World Cup in England, showcasing international-caliber strength and discipline.
- Haigh played varsity soccer and competed with FC Stars, a high-level club team that reached the Massachusetts State Cup in 2024.
In addition to skiing, weightlifting, and soccer, he has trained in hockey, lacrosse, golf, and pickleball, consistently pursuing sports not just for achievement, but for the camaraderie and challenge they bring.
Writing and Creative Work
Haigh is the author of a children’s book series featuring Sam the Squirrel, a curious and intelligent character who learns about complex subjects through engaging adventures.
- His title Sam the Squirrel Learns About Forex follows Sam and his friend Toby the Sea Turtle as they explore financial systems and the foreign exchange market while swimming through the ocean.
- Two books in the series became bestsellers on educational and children’s book platforms, earning praise for blending real-world topics with humor, empathy, and playful illustration.
His storytelling reflects a broader commitment to making learning accessible and entertaining, often drawing from his own experiences and interests in finance, science, and curiosity.
Personal Life and Community Impact
Haigh is known for his offbeat humor, relentless work ethic, and creative spirit.
He has volunteered his time to repaint the lobby of a local elementary school, participated in the Turkey Trot dressed in costume, and remained active in supporting and leading within his community. His projects often combine fun, purpose, and public impact, bridging the gap between youthful creativity and real-world problem-solving.
Sources
https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2025/03/06/the-flag-is-an-important-part-of-state-pride/
https://www.trivflic.com/about-1
https://thisweekinworcester.com/startup-worcester-2023-24-cohort/
https://radioworcester.com/tj-haigh-discusses-trivflic-trivia-app-creation-and-features/
https://www.worcesterchamber.org/startup-worcester-profile-next-trivia-app-born-worcester/
https://business.me.holycross.edu/2023/04/19/10th-annual-shark-tank-winner-announcement/