Glen Powell Balances Blockbuster Career with University Degree: A Star’s Commitment to Education
Fresh off the highly anticipated premiere of “Twisters,” Hollywood’s rising star Glen Powell is navigating an impressive dual journey: captivating audiences on the big screen while diligently pursuing his undergraduate degree at the University of Texas at Austin. Despite a film career that’s hitting unprecedented heights, the 35-year-old actor remains steadfast in his commitment to academic completion. His recent insights reveal a unique blend of dedication and strategic planning, showcasing a profound respect for personal growth amidst professional triumph.
During a conversation with IndieWire while promoting his action-packed new movie, Twisters, Powell candidly addressed how he intends to reconcile the demands of a burgeoning Hollywood career with the rigors of higher education. His approach is a testament to the flexibility of modern learning and his unwavering resolve to achieve this personal milestone. He made it clear that while his schedule won’t allow for traditional in-person attendance, his academic pursuit is anything but an afterthought.
“I’m not going to be sitting in a class with other students on the regular,” Glen clarified, elaborating on the logistics as he gears up for his next major project, The Running Man. “I’m basically going to be coming back because I have to finish up, but I’m going to be shooting The Running Man in the fall.” This statement perfectly encapsulates the balancing act many high-profile individuals face when striving for academic goals. Powell’s commitment highlights that for some, the pursuit of knowledge transcends conventional timelines and methods, adapting instead to the unique demands of their lives.
The Top Gun: Maverick sensation further detailed his strategy, explaining that his film commitments will take him across the globe. Noting that he’ll be “going to be in London” during the fall, he confirmed his reliance on modern educational flexibility. He added that he is “going to be going back [to class] for proctored exams,” signifying a blend of online learning and essential in-person assessments. This hybrid model allows him to continue his education remotely while ensuring academic integrity through supervised examinations.
“So, they’re letting me figure it out [with] distance learning,” Glen explained, outlining the accommodating arrangement with the University of Texas. “And I’m obviously going to be coming in, Zooming in for classes and whatnot, but I have to be back for the proctored exams. So, we’re figuring that out for two or three times a semester, I’ll come back for all my stuff.” This commitment to travel back to Austin multiple times a semester underscores the seriousness with which Powell approaches his degree, proving that even with a packed schedule of premieres and productions, his educational aspirations remain a top priority. It’s a remarkable display of discipline, demonstrating that success in one field doesn’t mean sacrificing growth in another.
Powell’s journey with the University of Texas isn’t a recent development. Prior to the explosive success of the Top Gun sequel, which firmly cemented his status as a leading man, Glen had initially attended UT for one year. He made the difficult decision to leave his studies to move to Los Angeles and fully dedicate himself to pursuing his acting dreams. This path is common for aspiring artists, but what sets Powell apart is his decision to return to complete what he started, even after achieving the very success he initially sought. It speaks volumes about his character and his belief in the value of a holistic education.
This isn’t the first instance where the acclaimed Hitman star has openly discussed his educational goals. In May, during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Powell emphasized the deep personal significance of finishing his college degree. He revealed that it’s “really important to [his] mom, and it’s more of an emotional thing for [him].” This emotional connection adds another layer of meaning to his endeavor, transforming it from a mere academic pursuit into a tribute to his family and a personal testament to perseverance. For many, a degree represents not just an achievement but a promise kept or a dream realized, and Powell’s sentiments resonate deeply with that universal feeling.
“Plus, I’m so close, I can taste it,” Glen added, conveying his proximity to the finish line. This determination is particularly poignant when reflecting on his past struggles to find continuous work in the notoriously unpredictable entertainment industry. He recounted the relentless effort required to even get noticed: “I’ve worked really hard for a long time, putting things together and just trying to get them in shape enough for people to give a s**t.” His journey from feeling like an underdog to a highly sought-after actor is inspiring, and his decision to complete his degree now, at the peak of his career, underscores a grounded perspective often rare in Hollywood. It suggests that even amidst superstardom, there’s an intrinsic value in completing personal goals set long before the limelight.
Now, with a string of commercial and critical successes under his belt, including the massively popular Netflix rom-com Anyone But You, Glen has made another significant life choice: he decided to leave the bustling, often overwhelming environment of Los Angeles and return to his home state of Texas. This move wasn’t impulsive; it was influenced by profound advice from fellow Texan and esteemed actor Matthew McConaughey. McConaughey, known for his philosophical outlook, offered a perspective that deeply resonated with Powell and spurred this transformative decision. The concept of seeking balance and authenticity away from the Hollywood bubble is a recurring theme for many who find themselves caught in its fast-paced, often superficial currents.
Glen recalled Matthew’s poignant analogy: “He’s like, ‘Hollywood is the Matrix, man. You plug in and it’s all fake world.’” This powerful metaphor speaks to the illusory nature of celebrity culture, where public image, industry politics, and constant performance can overshadow genuine human connection. McConaughey’s advice wasn’t just about physical location but about mental and spiritual unplugging. “He’s like, ‘Then I go to Austin, and I unplug. It’s all real. Those are my friends, that’s my family, my actions matter there.’ And he’s right.” Powell affirmed, highlighting the stark contrast between the two worlds. For an actor whose life often involves stepping into different roles and narratives, having a clear distinction between the “real” and the “fake” becomes crucial for maintaining sanity and identity.
The wisdom shared by McConaughey deeply impacted Powell, solidifying his desire for a more grounded existence. “If you’re here, you live in the Matrix all the time, there’s no separation of those worlds. And for me, especially as my parents get older and my niece and nephew are growing up, I want a separation of those worlds.” This yearning for a distinct boundary between his demanding professional life and his cherished personal sphere is a relatable sentiment, especially for those in high-pressure careers. It reflects a mature understanding of what truly matters: family, authentic relationships, and a sense of belonging that extends beyond the transient glow of fame. By returning to Texas, Glen Powell isn’t just changing his address; he’s investing in his well-being and reinforcing his connection to his roots.
Glen Powell’s dual commitment to both his skyrocketing film career and the completion of his university degree, coupled with his deliberate choice to move back to Texas, paints a picture of an actor who is as intelligent and grounded as he is talented. His story is a powerful reminder that ambition doesn’t have to be one-dimensional. It’s possible to pursue excellence in multiple arenas, driven by personal values, family influence, and a wise perspective on the ephemeral nature of fame. As he continues to dominate the big screen, Powell also sets an inspiring example for balancing professional success with personal fulfillment and the enduring value of education.