Becoming BYU
I was born in Idaho, grew up in the Phoenix Valley in Arizona, and split my high school years between New Zealand and Draper, Utah. I am currently a Sophomore at BYU planning to Major in Public Health, Minoring in Healthcare Leadership and Strategic management. My first year at BYU was incredible! From leadership conferences, to local volunteer opportunities, to academic associations and eventful club nights, to an amazingly supportive ward, I felt so grateful to have had the opportunity to receive an education from Brigham Young University. Over the next few years of my education, I decided that I wanted to become a part of giving back to the school that had offered me so much. Over this past year, I have had the chance to become more involved in BYU through BYUSA's Marketing Team and the university's Emergency Medical Services agency as a certified EMT. While at times chaotic and challenging, I have felt confidence and joy while volunteering my time and taking steps towards seeing my future career plans with more clarity and resolution.
What has led you to feel that you are connected at BYU?
One afternoon last year, my dad called me and invited me to attend a dinner event for a local political representative near Salt Lake. After being seated at one of the many tables in the venue, we decided to introduce ourselves to the other guests seated at our table. After a brief introduction and a few questions, I had to opportunity to listen to their advice about succeeding and making connections while in college. "If you can just have one meaningful conversation with someone new every day, you will truly be wealthy in friendships." Since then I have really made an effort to connect with those around me here at BYU and am grateful for those I have been able to connect with.
Who is someone who has helped you feel connected at BYU?
I have had the pleasure of working with Tala Alnasser frequently in the BYUSA office. Opening with her sharing with me her religious beliefs and cultural traditions as an international student here at BYU, I have been able to connect with many more unique and inspiring students here on campus. I have been able to create new friendships and gain additional insight and empathy into the lives of those who I may not have met otherwise.
If you had to give one piece of advice to other students who don't feel a connection here at BYU what would you tell them?
Work hard to become involved in a least one club or association on campus. Find a subject or topic that you are interested in and just jump in. Don't be afraid to try new things and to be "the new guy." You will find yourself interacting with others that have similar goals and dreams as you, and that can support you as you strive to accomplish them.