Alex Bryant is living a life, most people only dream about. The 2010 Wylie graduate lives in Los Angeles, works in the entertainment industry and hobnobs with the stars, including Oprah, the singer Seal, comedian Kevin Hart and many others.
“Every person I meet has a unique experience,” he said. “Every single person has been such an honor to meet.
All the lessons they share, I try to share with other people.” Alex first made headlines a few years after his Wylie graduation when he received a $100,000 scholarship, which he used to earn a graphic design degree at San Angelo State University. Then he earned an internship with CBS, which opened doors for him to move to LA after graduation.
Alex also earned an Emmy for his work on Entertainment Tonight. He was in the news most recently when he was part of a taping of the entertainment show Extra.
“I got an invite to go for the taping,” he said. “I was selectedto ask a fan question. To be on that show was such an honor. It was a phenomenal experience that I will cherish.”
Alex works in LA as a graphic designer and social media strategist. He also works for a company that provides audiences for music or entertainment shows, and he volunteers with the Olympic Committee, the United Nations and a group that feeds the homeless.
He said his volunteer efforts are a way to give back.
“So many people believed in me,” Alex said. “I want to show that there is still hope and to give back is so fulfilling. I’ve always been a natural giver. The more I give, the more I get.”
Alex has used social media to get himself noticed in the entertainment industry, and his hard work continues to pay off. His website is full of pictures with him and various celebrities.
He said his favorite celebrity meeting was with Oprah.
“I have had the privilege to meet her twice now,” he said. “We go back and forth on social media. She’s just like she presents herself. She brings her best self. She is one of the most genuine people on the planet for sure.”
He said it was also an honor to meet Seal.
“When I met him he started singing,” Alex said. “He’s always been a childhood idol. When he started singing, I was ‘Oh my gosh.’ ”
Alex said he learns a lot from the stars that he meets, and he tries to take that advice and use it when speaking to groups or working with students.
He said he learned a lot from comedian Kevin Hart.
“The best thing about him is his strong work ethic and his desire to keep learning and to keep striving to reach his aspirations and goals to make his dream come true,” Alex said.
Alex grew up in Britain and still has a strong British accent. He moved to Wylie for his high school years, and he says the school had a major impact on him.
“They taught great lessons – a work hard mentality,” he said. “I’ve carried all that with me when I entered this field. My teachers back in Wylie, I hold them very dear. They are important to me.”
Alex proved that this summer. He had a former Texas Ranger baseball player film a really neat shout out to some of the Wylie teachers and administrators who had an impact on his life. You can see the video at WylieGrowl.com.
Alex’s parents, Craig and June, and his little brother, Nicholas, still live in Wylie. Nicholas is a 2nd-grader at Wylie.
Although Alex has already accomplished things many people only dream of, he said he still has other dreams to pursue.
“One of my goals is to be a media entrepreneur – be an executive for a media company in the entertainment field that makes a difference for the community and nonprofits,” he said.
Alex said he also hopes he is an example to all students that they can pursue their dreams if they work hard.
“I always believe there is away you can make it happen,” he said. “I tried to find a way to get my foot in the door and make my presence known. I’ve reached out through outlets like social media. It’s always possible if you try.”
“Give my love to everyone at Wylie.”