Whiz Kid: Media Man Alex Johnson

Whiz Kids is a weekly feature in which Patch profiles an outstanding youngster or youth group. This week's Whiz Kid is Alex Johnson, who is awesome because he's learning from a unique opportunity.

Whiz Kid: Alex Johnson

Age: 18

School: Hoboken High School, graduate

Many teenagers have a part-time job, but few get to work in the famous Carlo's Bake Shop like recent Hoboken High School graduate Alex Johnson has.

“It's pretty cool,” Alex says about working in the century-old family owned bakery that spawned the hit television show Cake Boss. “It's a little overwhelming sometimes but mostly it's a lot of fun.”

Alex works the front counter where he serves hundreds of customers, including many far-flung tourists each day. “You just get the customers what they want and make their visit the best that it can be,” he says.

Alex has gotten to meet the entire Valastro family, including the show's star, master baker Buddy. “He's a little strict but he's a business guy and I have a lot of respect for him,” Alex says.

Alex plans to take all the skills he's learned working at the bakery and apply them to his future pursuits. He'll begin attending St. Peter's in the fall. He wants to major in communication, focusing on business media, and minor in theater arts. He starred in several shows in Hoboken High's award-winning theater program, including Voices and Footloose.

He was a member of several clubs during his time at Hoboken High, including the Hispanic Culture Club. “We listened to good speakers, people I can look up to,” he says.

In his spare time Alex likes to play sports. He was a star linebacker and tight end on the varsity football team. He also enjoys mixed martial arts, and trains with his father.

Alex says he appreciates the time he spends with his family. He's motivated to work hard to help his parents, and to also inspire his younger brother and sister.

“I want to work hard for them, so that they can see that for themselves,” he says.

Do you know a Whiz Kid, or even a whole group of them? Send any and all nominations to alanskontra@hotmail.com, and check back to read about some outstanding youngsters in your community.