Curious, resilient, and endlessly creative, one WEGO student defies expectations at every turn. With interests ranging from global travel to ghost peppers and Renaissance art to rap lyrics, Alex Briggs might just be West Chicago Community High School’s most interesting man.

Alex has had the opportunity to travel extensively, shaping his worldview and deepening his understanding of cultural differences. He has visited France, Australia, Mexico, Hong Kong, and Japan.

“One thing you learn when you travel, as much as I’ve traveled, is you get to see, like, the different cultures of the world and the ways they kind of operate, and the way that, you know, things are done in different parts of the world,” Alex said.

He recalls moments of awe and inspiration from his travels, such as his visit to the Catholic section of the Art Institute.

“It’s amazing what the human spirit can do when it feels such love and dedication toward one specific kind of deity,” Alex said.

When not exploring new places, Alex finds joy in an eclectic mix of hobbies. He is an avid gardener, a music enthusiast, and a skilled skateboarder who uses the activity to de-stress.

“I love skateboarding. Skateboarding is definitely a big thing for me to de-stress. I skateboard, I longboard. For me, it’s the physical activity I participate in the most. I love it. I do it mainly at night,” Alex said.

He also grows unusual produce, like ghost peppers and Cherokee purple tomatoes, and approaches gardening with the same curiosity and care that defines his other passions.

At school, Alex is deeply involved in the West Chicago Community High School Horticulture Club and Snowball. He describes Snowball as a life-changing experience—“a message of unity”—where he learned about acceptance, self-worth, and connection.

“It’s about getting close to people, about meeting the people you never would have met,” Alex said.

He credits much of his motivation to his parents, especially their advice about perseverance and accountability.

“We have always encouraged Alex to put forward his best effort and own the outcome. Enjoy your successes and learn from your failures,” his father, Art Briggs, said.

Art recalls his son struggling in elementary school but turning things around in middle school, becoming the most improved student in seventh grade. Now, Alex takes AP and honors classes and is preparing to attend college.

Art was especially proud of Alex’s participation in the school trip to France, a long-time goal he had set for himself.

“It was exciting to see the story of his trip and how he was able to make friends from a different culture so quickly,” Art said.

When facing setbacks, the family encourages Alex to understand what is required to succeed – and then to push through.

“We discuss roadblocks but let him ‘grind’ his way through adversity. If he needs help, then he needs to ask,” Art said.

In the classroom, Alex is just as dynamic. He finds meaning in history and economics and uses writing as a creative outlet.

“Alex is an independent thinker. He is never afraid to challenge the status quo or play devil’s advocate,” said Kelsey Wirkus, his current English teacher. “These skills seem to come naturally to Alex. I’ve been very impressed with his ability to analyze literature.”

That ability to reflect deeply – about stories, school, or life – shapes how he approaches challenges.

“You can’t fail yourself, and you can’t give up on yourself in a moment where life is too difficult, academically or just personally. No matter what you’re dealing with, there’s always someone you have to count on. That has to be yourself,” Alex said.

Casey Turek, Alex’s girlfriend, knows firsthand the impact he has on others. Alex supported her interests, especially her experiences playing ice hockey outside of school. She describes him as funny and welcoming from the start.

“He’s very influential… he just has such a beautiful personality,” Turek said.

Despite his many accomplishments, Alex remains grounded. He believes in forgiveness, authenticity, and living in the moment – values that guide his everyday choices. Although Alex has yet to decide on a specific career path, he is considering fields such as law, marketing, or anthropology. After being accepted to several universities, he ultimately committed to Illinois State University.

Whether supporting the people he cares about or exploring new opportunities, Alex brings a sense of purpose and thoughtfulness to everything he does.

“There is always a light at the end of the tunnel, even if you can’t see it. Don’t judge and always forgive,” Alex said.

And that is what makes Alex Briggs not just interesting – but unforgettable.