Throughout his school years, Mateo mostly kept to himself, his demeanor being that of a cold, lone individual. He was picked on for most of his education which forged his passion for the Dark Arts and spellcrafting. Forsaking any extra-curricular activities including Quidditch, Chess and such, he buried himself in his studies. However, his loneliness eventually ended when he befriended Hungarian-born student Nicolas Mihalios. Unfortunately, a Quidditch accident during their ninth year took his life and Mateo was driven deep into depression, almost failing that year, not to mention nearly killing another student after a sly remark was made about his deceased friend. However, with the help of his family, he was able to climb out of depression and finish his last year.