Meet Dylan Small

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dylan Small

Hi Dylan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up in Beverly Hills, California, with my older sister Sydney and my parents, Lisa and Brad. My childhood was vibrant and full of opportunities—I loved making new friends, going to school, and immersing myself in extracurricular activities. I was always busy dancing, singing, performing in musicals, and even playing volleyball. I thrived on exploring new interests and pushing my boundaries. One unique aspect of my upbringing was that I changed schools often, but I embraced these transitions. Each move felt like an opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to build new relationships. While academics weren’t always my strongest suit, I found my passions in creative pursuits. From a young age, I was captivated by storytelling—I spent hours making videos, entertaining myself, and exploring the magic of movies and music. My sister’s singing career was also a big influence, fueling my love for creative expression.Despite the joy, my family faced challenges. My dad has MS, and much of my childhood was shaped by watching my mom and sister care for him. Although it wasn’t easy, this experience instilled resilience, strength, and a deep sense of gratitude in me. My parents taught me to be elegant, proactive, independent, and empathetic—qualities that guide me to this day.
When it came time for college, I chose Belmont University in Nashville for the opportunities it offered. Belmont has been a transformative experience, providing countless resources and connections to help students thrive. The focus on creativity and professional development has been a perfect match for me.
I’m majoring in Film with a classes in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and audio mixing, alongside a minor in Social Media Management. This combination allows me to bring stories to life while leveraging my skills in digital media. Belmont has truly been a launchpad for my growth, and I’m excited to continue pursuing my passions.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. Life has thrown its challenges my way, but I believe growth comes from how we respond to those challenges. At times, I’ve faced difficulties with school or family, but I’ve always reminded myself of my purpose—why I’m here and what I’m meant to do.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the power of mindset. Shifting my perspective and focusing on gratitude has helped me turn obstacles into opportunities. Even in tough times, I’ve found strength in my vision for the future, which keeps me grounded and motivated.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I wear many hats in my work life, and I thrive on staying busy. My experience spans several roles in content creation, social media management, and leadership. I’ve worked with organizations like Givescent, After Dark VIP, and Beverly Hills Manners, and I currently hold multiple roles that reflect my creativity and drive.

I’m a Creative Intern at Hustle Media Co., where I focus on content creation, photography, and video editing. The company specializes in liquor branding, but we welcome any business seeking to grow its digital presence. This role has been a fantastic creative outlet, allowing me to conceptualize and execute ideas that drive impact.

I also serve as the Social Media Manager for Wanna Spoon Cereal Bar in Nashville. I connected with the owner, Kira, through a Belmont job fair, and our collaboration has been incredible. In this role, I manage platforms, create content, and develop posting strategies, blending creativity with analytics to elevate the brand’s online presence.

In addition to these roles, I’m proud to represent Alani Nu as an ambassador. This opportunity allows me to combine my passion for wellness with brand advocacy, showcasing the products I love while connecting with like-minded individuals.

I’m also the PR Chair for Phi Mu at Belmont University, where I lead brand outreach initiatives for my sorority. This position involves pitching for sponsorships and building relationships with companies. This role has been an incredible way to combine leadership, creativity, and networking while giving back to my organization.

What sets me apart is my determination and versatility. Balancing college, work, and leadership roles isn’t always easy, but I’m passionate about everything I do and make time for what matters. I’m most proud of the opportunities I’ve embraced and the growth I’ve experienced, both personally and professionally.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice is simple: determination and connections are everything. Stay driven and passionate, and don’t be afraid to go the extra mile to open doors for yourself. Persistence has been one of my biggest assets—it’s what has helped me secure interviews, build relationships, and create opportunities.
Connections are just as important. Put yourself out there by attending events, networking, or even working in the service industry. I spent over a year at Barstool Nashville, where I met countless industry professionals and like-minded individuals. Those connections have been instrumental in shaping my career path. Lastly, never underestimate the power of self-growth. Every experience—whether it’s a job, a class, or a personal challenge—contributes to who you are. Embrace each step of the journey with curiosity and resilience, and success will follow.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylansmalll/