Diver Finds New Beginnings and Love at Georgia Tech

Diver Finds New Beginnings and Love at Georgia Tech

Alex Scott, a talented diver and Georgia native, has discovered both love and a true sense of belonging at Georgia Tech, after a challenging start to his college athletic career. Initially diving for IUPUI, Alex achieved notable success, including qualifying for Nationals and earning podium finishes at the Horizon League Championships. However, despite these achievements, he struggled with feeling at home and connected to his team.

"The team environment at IUPUI wasn't what I needed," Alex shared. "I faced mental health challenges and found it hard to make friends. By my sophomore year, I felt isolated, wondering why I couldn't connect with my teammates who were supposed to be my people."

Alex had come out as gay while still in high school, and his orientation wasn't a barrier on his journey. There were other out athletes on the IUPUI team, yet Alex still felt disconnected. During this time, Alex's life took a turn when he met Brian Zapp, a fellow gay athlete and baseball player from the University of Miami (Ohio), through Tinder.

Their meeting was serendipitous, and Brian's understanding of the demanding schedule of a student-athlete provided Alex with the support he needed. "Finding someone who's an athlete too was invaluable," Alex explained. "Brian understood the packed schedule and intense demands, and we supported each other through it."

Despite the joy of their relationship, Alex's situation at IUPUI was still untenable. He decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal with the encouragement of his friends and Brian, seeking a place where he could truly feel at home. Georgia Tech offered exactly that—an environment where he felt immediately welcomed and appreciated.

"Talking with the coaches and team members at Georgia Tech felt like coming home," Alex said. "Everyone was so welcoming and genuinely wanted me to be a part of the team." Being closer to his family in Georgia also played a crucial role in his decision.

"My family has always been my rock," Alex shared. "Their immediate acceptance and support when I came out has been invaluable. I cherish every opportunity to spend time with them now that I'm back in Georgia."

Despite the distance, Alex and Brian have maintained a strong relationship, making efforts to see each other as often as possible. "We see each other about once a month," Alex said. "The time and effort are worth it. Our moments together and apart are cherished."

Looking ahead, Alex is set to graduate with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech, a program ranked second in the nation. His dream is to work in creative engineering, designing rides at Disneyland and Disney World. "I have a passion for creativity," Alex expressed, "and I want to apply engineering in creative spaces."

Alex is also committed to being a visible role model as an out gay man in engineering, a field often lacking LGBTQ representation. He hopes to inspire other LGBTQ individuals to pursue careers in technical and creative fields. "Let me show people that it's possible to be out and thriving in this space," he said.

With love, a sense of home, and a bright future ahead, Alex Scott exemplifies resilience and the pursuit of true belonging. His journey at Georgia Tech is a testament to finding one's place and thriving both personally and professionally.