"Alex Boylan’s story is the kind of book every high school library should have on its shelves. It shows students that success doesn’t come from following a straight line, but from curiosity, courage, and saying yes to new experiences. The Miles That Make You will inspire teens to dream bigger, parents to encourage exploration, and schools to see that the best preparation for the future often comes from stepping outside the comfort zone."
Betsy Henning - High School Librarian
"Reading The Miles That Make You made me realize that rejection and uncertainty aren’t setbacks—they’re part of the adventure. Alex’s story gave me the courage to stop waiting for the ‘perfect path’ and start building my own. Every college student should read this before stepping into the real world.”
College Student
“At a community college, we see students from every walk of life chasing their dreams. The Miles That Make You is such a powerful guide to resilience and opportunity that we’re working to embed it into our curriculum.”
Community College President
“As a parent, I want my child to be both prepared and inspired. The Miles That Make You does exactly that—it shows students that resilience, humility, and courage matter as much as grades. It’s a book I’m grateful my teen has on their shelf.”
Parent
“One of the most inspiring books you will ever read.”
Los Angeles Magazine
Alex Boylan’s extraordinary journey proves that the most meaningful success comes not from following conventional paths, but from embracing the uncomfortable and saying yes to the unexpected.
From selling 2,000 Advent calendars door-to-door to fund a life-changing exchange year in Brazil, to winning The Amazing Race and traveling around the world without spending a dollar, to creating The College Tour—a groundbreaking series that has transformed college search for millions of students—Boylan’s story is a masterclass in turning obstacles into opportunities.
How rejection can redirect you toward your authentic path
Why being genuinely likable is your greatest professional asset
The power of embracing discomfort as the price of growth
How to build meaningful relationships that open unexpected doors
Why staying humble is the key to lasting success
"It’s not about the weight of the backpack you start with. It’s about what you do with it, how you carry it, where you take it, and who you become along the way."
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Whether you’re a high school student eager to stand out, a college student determined to land your dream job, a recent graduate searching for direction, a professional feeling stuck in the wrong role, or simply someone ready to write your own story instead of living someone else’s, The Miles That Make You is your roadmap to building a career—and a life—filled with purpose and excitement.
Alex Boylan is an Emmy-nominated television producer, creator, and host. His work has been distributed in over 100 countries. As the creator of The College Tour, he has helped millions of students discover which school is right for them. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and son.
