Life is an Adventure. Let’s Explore the Journey Together!
In education and expanded learning, we often take the path less traveled – the unpaved trail that leads to exploration and adventure! The BOOST Breakfast Club Blog is excited to spotlight the journeys of the BOOST Leadership and BOOST Ambassador teams in the Fall 2025 Collaborative Blog Series – Share Your Career Journey: Explore the Path We’ve Traveled. Thank you to these important BOOST partners for adventuring into the unknown for the betterment of our youth and communities.
Are you ready to chase the horizon, because adventure awaits with Alyson Bryant (her/she). Thank you, Alyson, for inviting us to join your journey! We appreciate you!
Explore the Path We’ve Traveled with BOOST Leadership Team Member, Alyson Bryant (her/she)
Alyson is the Director of Training and Development for YMCA of Greater Long Beach in Long Beach, CA, and a proud member of the BOOST Leadership Team.
What is your career path journey? How did you get involved in the out-of-school time, expanded learning, and/or educational fields?
My career path into the expanded learning field started with a passion for youth development and creating spaces where students can thrive beyond the traditional classroom. I initially began working in education as a program leader, supporting after-school enrichment and academic support. Over time, I realized the tremendous impact that out-of-school time programs have on students’ confidence, social skills, and overall success.
What part of your career path has surprised you most?
What’s surprised me most is how much impact out-of-school time programs have not just on students, but on the adults who support them. I never expected how rewarding it would be to mentor staff, build teams, and see their growth alongside the youth we serve.
Who has supported you on your journey as a mentor, colleague, or friend?
I’ve been really supported by people like Kimmy from CCEJ, who’s been an incredible mentor and example of leadership. My family and friends have also been a huge part of my journey, always encouraging me and reminding me to keep going when things get tough.
What keeps you in the field?
What keeps me in this field? The students. Seeing them grow, discover their strengths, and feel supported reminds me every day why I started. Their energy and resilience inspire me to keep learning, showing up, and making a difference alongside them.
As you continue on the journey, what areas of leadership are you developing in yourself?
As I continue on this journey, I’m focused on developing my skills in coaching and mentoring others, building stronger teams, and communicating in ways that inspire and empower those around me. I’m also working on being more intentional about leading with patience, empathy, and consistency.
What skills are the most crucial to succeeding in this field?
The most crucial skills are authenticity, empathy, and the ability to connect with students. Every student deserves to see themselves reflected in the adults supporting them, and building trust and meaningful relationships is key to helping them thrive.
What would you recommend others pack in their “career backpack”? Why are those items important?
In today’s world, I’d pack Resilience, Flexibility, and Empathy. They help us adapt to challenges, stay connected to students and staff, and lead with heart no matter what comes our way.
Tell us about your BOOST adventure? When did you get started?
I first attended BOOST in 2016, and it was such an eye-opening experience seeing the impact programs have on students. In 2022, I joined the leadership team, and since then, I’ve loved supporting staff, helping build quality programs, and creating opportunities for youth to thrive. BOOST has truly been a meaningful part of my growth as a leader.
What is the best mistake you have made in your career? What did you learn from it?
The best mistake I’ve made in my career was trying to do everything myself instead of asking for support from my team. It was overwhelming and taught me the importance of collaboration and trusting others. “Mistakes are the stepping stones to growth.”
Today, for breakfast, I had…
Coffee!
Alyson, from all of us here at TEAMBOOST, thank you for inviting us to explore the path you’ve traveled and journey alongside you. We are excited to see where the adventure will lead as you INSPIRE YOUTH, INSPIRE LEARNING, and INSPIRE CHANGE.
Meredith White
Alyson, you always lead with love and heart. Thank you for sharing your journey with our BOOST community! Your quote – “Mistakes are the stepping stones to growth.” – was what I needed to read today, a reminder that a growth mindset, even in the face of what can feel like failure, helps us evolve into our best selves. Appreciate you! Meredith
Deanna Underwood
AB!! It’s so true – we think we’re working to impact the kids, but we are simultaneously impacting our lives as well!