Alumni Spotlight: Brian “Wyatt” Wilkins ’24
Clarke: One of our first questions in these interviews is often, “where has life taken you since Clarke?” I think it’s fair to say your answer is a little farther than most?
Wyatt: Definitely! After graduating with my degree in Elementary Education from Clarke in 2024, I joined American Creativity Academy and moved overseas to teach English in Kuwait City, Kuwait. I’ve always wanted to see the world and experience different cultures, and teaching abroad felt like a great way to do that while doing something meaningful. The idea of teaching internationally really grew during my time at Clarke. I originally planned to stay for just a couple of years, but I’ve really enjoyed the experience so far. As long as the opportunity continues to help me grow personally and professionally, I’m open to staying longer. I was even promoted to Head of Year, a leadership role that’s allowed me to support both students and staff on a broader level.
I try to reach my students outside the classroom, too. For example, I recently organized an Al Week to teach middle school students how to use AI safely and responsibly. I also enjoy powerlifting, so I run a powerlifting club to help students reach their fitness goals.
In my free time, I enjoy watching anime, attending conventions, and trying new foods. I also completed a lifelong goal to visit Egypt and going inside every pyramid open to the public. It’s been quite the year!
Clarke: How do you feel Clarke prepared you for a teaching experience like this?
Wyatt: I came to Clarke from Greenville, South Carolina because I was looking for a smaller university with a strong education program and a real sense of community. I wanted a place where I could grow not just academically but personally too, and Clarke felt like the right fit from the start.
My time at Clarke played a big role in preparing me for this and all of life’s challenges. I’m especially grateful to my Track and Field coach, who constantly pushed me to be my best and taught me the importance of perseverance. The Education program gave me the hands-on classroom experience, support, and tools I needed to become the kind of teacher I aspired to be. I really appreciated how we got to apply what we were learning in real classrooms through the Professional Development School and student teaching. I also have great memories of the meaningful conversations and connections I made through the middle school endorsement program. It really set the foundation for my success.
One of my main goals is to become a Dean of Students, where I can have a broader impact on school culture and student success. To reach that goal, it’s important to stay motivated.
What keeps me motivated is a mix of external support and internal drive. My wife Sidney has been incredibly supportive of my journey, especially as we’ve taken on the experience of living and working abroad together. Her support pushes me to keep striving for more. I’ve stayed connected to Clarke through my coach and the great friends I made during my time there, and they are still a part of my support system. Internally, my competitive mindset pushes me to keep growing and improving every day.
Clarke: Any advice for today’s Clarke students?
Wyatt: Focus on the small wins. They add up to big success. Don’t dwell on setbacks. Every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. Keep showing up and you’ll be amazed at how far you can go.
Clarke: How do you feel you’ve kept the Clarke Core Values of education, charity, justice, and freedom as part of your life?
Wyatt: As an educator, I carry Clarke’s Core Values into my daily work. Through teaching, I promote education as a path to opportunity and growth. I practice charity by supporting students both academically and emotionally, especially those who need extra encouragement. I strive for justice by creating an inclusive environment where every student feels seen and valued. And I believe in freedom by helping students think critically and make informed choices about their futures.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, Wyatt! Do you know a member of the Clarke alumni community we should highlight? Submit your nominations for a future Alumni Spotlight by emailing alumnirelations@clarke.edu.
Interview edited for length and clarity.