Wesley interning with Distinctive Schools!

When Wesley Byrd joined Art in Motion (AIM) in 8th grade, he was searching for a school that offered something different  – he was interested in photography and film programs. What he discovered was Art In Motion – a creative learning community that he shared ultimately shaped his future in unexpected ways.

"AIM exposed me to the fact that the arts are so much more than painting," Wesley reflects. "The arts helped me process different things in my life, even outside of academics. The teachers pushed me to be great, to go beyond what I was already doing."

The way teachers and leaders at AIM push for excellence has served Wesley well at Southern Illinois University (SIU), where he's now studying Political Science with a specialization in International Affairs. According to Welsey, the transition to college life was seamless, thanks to AIM's college preparation and exposure. “Senior and junior year, AIM exposed us to so many college opportunities and things to look for as far as programs and things to expect in college. Getting here on campus, it actually didn't feel too overwhelming because AIM prepared us for how college works, the structures and the flow.”

Wesley graduating from Art In MotionAs a member of the Distinctive Schools Learner Advisory, Wesley collaborated with fellow students to voice their opinions, provide feedback, advocate for positive changes, and share their Distinctive experience. Wesley credits this experience as directly influencing his college involvement—he's already attended student council town halls and plans to take an active role in campus leadership.

"It's similar to the Learner Advisory at Distinctive Schools," Wesley explains. "A bunch of students talking about how we can make things better and change our school experience and environment. Distinctive Schools prepared me for that."

Wesley's connection to Distinctive Schools continued through a post-graduation internship where he worked alongside the recruitment and enrollment team. "I wanted to experience how other Distinctive schools engage with families," he shares. 

As a member of SIU's Class of 2028, Wesley is actively involved in campus life, participating in the E-Sports Gaming club's competitive team and planning to join a club that focuses on celebrating the Black African experience. His journey from AIM student to college leader exemplifies how Distinctive Schools empowers students to discover their potential and make meaningful impacts in their communities. Wesley, we’re excited to see where your leadership journey takes you! 

Are you a Distinctive Alumni, or know a Distinctive Schools Alumni we should connect with? Complete this form or reach out to media@distinctiveschools.org with your story, we’d love to shine the spotlight on you!