Brigham Young University-Idaho Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Lacey

There is so much that I have gotten out of my college experience. To start off I got the chance to live on my own, and to support myself 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}, I really realized how to put money in the right areas, and how to say no to things I don’t need to do. Also I have learned how to be more outgoing, in order to make friends you have to talk to random people. It has helped me just be able to strike a conversation with all most anyone. I have also learned more about the specific topics I studied of course, but not only am I learning science, math, history but I get to learn at a gospel standpoint as well, since my school is a church school. I love college; it has prepared me for the future in so many ways and is getting me ready for the new generation of jobs, careers, and paths. It is teaching me not to procrastinate and to get things done on time, or they will pile up. It’s a great learning experience and I think everyone should go through it.

Krista

My college experience has taught me personal responsibility, time management, netwoking, and social abilities. Most of all it has taught me to be tenacious, as I have transfered many times due to having a military family. Many times I transfered and lost credits beause of different requirements in different areas. The older I get, the more valuable education has become to me. I want to have the skills and brain power to make smart decisions for my future financially and personally. Many times I have completed a semester and walked away feeling more cultured and smarter, like a more interesting and important decision, capable of making a change in the world. I cant wait to have an incredible job and be able to give to my family and community.

Jennifer

Gaining more education is always valuable. Beyond attaining a degree that makes a difference in the lives of others, I gained confidence, compassion and skills to assist me in raising my four children. I returned to college after a long break. The experience I had at BYU-I was so much different from my previous college experience because now I was married with children. All the social stress I had as a fresh out of highschool student was gone. I could focus so much more on what was important for me to succeed. Going back to school allowed me to fullfill a life-long dream of caring for those in need. Now I feel as if obtaining a master's degree is just another hill to climb instead of the mountain it appeared to be fifteen years ago.

Rosena

Lopsidedness leads to career and family burn-out, over-hurried and stressed-out people, lonliness, and general malaise about life. Well-roundedness leads to fulfilling hobbies and careers, balanced families, well-proportioned social activity, a balanced outlook on life, and general contendeness about life. From my college experience, I gained well-roundedness.

Kevin

So far as I have been here in college I have become a much more rounded person as far as knowledge and interests. Another thing that has been good for me is that because of the many different ethnic backgrounds of the students here, I have learned to really appreciate the differences that there are between different cultures. This has been the most important thing I've experienced since I started college. Of course, I have also learned much from my studies. I have very much enjoyed learning new things and am looking forward to the next three years as I finish out my degree.

Kristopher

I have learned a lot from my college experience. In my eyes the most important thing I have learned is tolerance. In my anthropology classes we often talk about different religions and cultures, most of which I had already accepted. But the other students in the class were not as open to certain practices like I was. So my objective view really helped me. I have also learned what it takes to get be successful in life. Most of my professors are always bus; so planning was essential. I learned to make my schedule as flexible as possible so that I could talk and take advice from my professors. Professors are the key to surviving college. By learning from their experience and taking their advice made my first semester easier. Moreover, have learned that it takes work to get objectives done, and when you do the work it makes the outcome that much more rewarding. Open-mindedness. Determination. Perseverance. Flexibility. Forethought. The five qualities one needs to survive college, and that I have learned within my first semester.

Edgar

Even though I have attended college now for five years, I've felt that during my most recent semester I have been able to grow both as a person and as a student. Despite the academics, I've felt that in many ways, the friendships that you form during your college years make the whole experience worthwhile. However, I feel that the most valuable reason for attending is to learn self-discipline, which is an essential part not only to college,but life in general.

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melissa

I am a very fortunate woman now that i attend college. I always thought it would be to hard for me. I am upset with myself for not going to college right after high school. Now that i am here i devote my time to learning and explore my college surrondings. Its going to be a new semeter and i am ready for it. What pushes me more into my education is my teenage son. I wake up with my children and we all get up together and get ready for school. I am setting a wonderful example by going to college. Hopefully this will encourage my son to give college a try.

Heather

My college experience has been amazing, and I am blessed by the Lord to have the opportunity to attend BYU-Idaho. I have learned so much about the world around me and about being LDS. The Lord's Spirit is all over campus, and there is a sense of peace, comfort, love, acceptance, and accomplishment almost everywhere I go. I have learned a lot about marriages and families, and I plan to use this knowledge in my future home and teach my children. I have also learned a lot about creative writing and the craft of writing fiction, which I hope to use in my writing of children's books and short stories. An LDS temple also sits up on the hill above campus, and I enjoy going there to feel God's love and peace, the same love and peace that is felt all over campus and in the campus' gardens. Attending this campus has helped me discover more of who I am, where I want to go in this life, and how I fit into God's plan. My knowledge of Christ's gospel has grown, and I am learning to better serve God and my fellow men.

Jonathan

I've received a valuable lesson in balancing my life. My GPA reflects my transition from a lower-middle class family in Nebraska with limited possibilities into a much more open environsment where I could find my niche. I'm coming into my third year of school and am glad to be focused on what I want specifically in all areas of life. This school has helped me decide what I want and has given me the tools and connections to reach for it.

victoria

I will be attending college soon. I beleive it will help me in bettering my eduction and job experiance. Also better my life and my childrens lifes. :)

Camilla

As I attend college at Brigham Young Unniversity, i have learned to become a more independant responsible adult. From group work I have learned how important it is to respect others opinions and ideas. i have also learned to keep an open mind and look at every possibilty before making up my mind on an important decision. College has allowed me to learn to juggle many different organizations, and still do well on my studies at the same time. I have made many life friends and enjoyed teaching and learning from other students. I believe I will be well prepared for a career when I graduate with my degree.

Kamille

I have learned a lot of things from my college experience, but one of the most important things is I have learned how to work. Everything we do is applied in some way to the real job world, and only the best is expected of us. I am certain that at my university we do more work outside of the classroom than almost anywhere else. It is a part of the learning model that we prepare for each of our classes in order to better learn. Another thing that has made this so valuable is the environment. We apply principles of integrity in everything we do, agreeing to live by a higher standard. Yes, religion is a central part of education at BYU-I. It is what enables the students to apply principles of faith, work, and integrity into the secular. There is a different spirit about the campus; one that is easily felt on your first walk there, in your first classroom, with the first friend you make. There is a unity there that comes from everyone living a certain way, having similar goals and dreams, and having a desire to help the people around you succeed.

Thomas

Not only have I learned the things necessary for excellence in a career, but I've also learned things to help me be a better human being.

Crystal

I've always looked forward to going to college since I was young because I knew it was the key to success. While attending I've discovered more and more opportunities to try new things; it opened new doors of knowledge! I've learned a lot about myself and the world around me and how we can enrich society with our talents and abilities. I have high hopes and dreams for my future and I knew without a doubt that college was the way to go without anyone telling me. It has been a very valuable and rewarding experience. I believe those who are well-educated will make wiser choices; thus, benefits the world around them. These are the ones who are closer to reaching their goals, because they know something --just a little more. As for me, I love learning. I love opening my senses to new things and learning about the lives of those who became great. I want to know how they did it. And I want to be marked in history as one of them. The knowledge and experiences I've gained has touched my life; that's why it's valuable.

Rebecca

I am currently in the middle of my sophomore year at Brigham Young University Idaho and loving college life. I am now studying elementary education and I love my classes. I work very hard and try to go above and beyond what is asked of me, causing me to spend weeks on a single project. I think that comes with the pressure that my school has put on me as well as a little bit of having a perfectionist attitude. The pressure that my school has put on me does not have a negative connotation at all. In my opinion, attending BYUI has taught me to work even harder than I have before and become more self-sufficient. I have also tried very hard to get involved in my school which is why I have participated in and coached the dance team. By being involved in my school I have been given the opportunity to learn to balance extracurricular activities with my acedemics and social life. College has given me such great experiences so far and I cannot wait to see where my adventures take me in the future.

McKenzie

When I first decided to attend BYU-Idaho, I had no idea what I was in for. I had always planned on going to a different school, so the thought of going to Rexburg hadn't even crossed my mind. After my first semester, I had discovered what everybody called "The Spirit of Ricks." Even though BYU-Idaho has long since transitioned from Ricks College, this atmosphere (known as "The Spirit of Ricks) hasn't changed. It's unlike other universities in that it combines spiritual learning with secular learning. Perhaps that's what contributes to the positive attitude everyone on campus seems to have, even when the wind is blowing and the temperature is 30 below. Anybody who sets foot on campus, even if it's just to visit, has noticed the effect it has on anybody who goes here. Since I started attending this school two years ago, I have discovered my limitless potential when I truly challenge myself. I have discovered that one can learn so many different things when the mind is willing and open. I have discovered that true learning isn't limited to the campus--it can be continuous, lifelong, and very rewarding.

Jacob

I have been given confidence and an ability to contribute to society.

Michelle

I think that attending college has really helped me get some priorties straight. I've been able to really find out what I can handle as a person but as well as knowledge wise. I had one career picked out before graduating high school and it was the classes that I took my first semester that helped me realize what my real talents were. I was able to get the courage to change my major and find out what my dreams are. Being able to attend classes has helped me to open up and get outside of my comfort shell. I have been able to meet new people and get out into the world a little more. I've been able to see how much the world opens up the opportunities to those who work hard and do everything they can to catch hold of those opportunities.

Evelyn

The college experience is something that I didn't expect, would never give up, and won't find anywhere else. As the first to attend college in my family, I pictured what I would find very differently from what it was. However, it was this difference that made the experience so much more than simply building an education. I learned that this is a time were only you can make it great. I learned the true value of money and friends. I saw that I have so much more to learn if I am to make a difference in this world (which is the only thing on my bucket list that really matters). Most importantly, I discovered how much I am capable of, and all that is within my reach. This is an opportunity that I wouldn't trade for another because of the skills, friendships, and (obviously) education involved. College is about living, growing, and preparing yourself to enter this world fully competent and aware of our responsibilities to each other, our name, and our country. Besides, where else can you learn how to write, shoot an arrow, paint, and horseback ride all in the same place?

fabiola

What I have learned so far is to look at things in a whole new way. Architecture has a lot to deal with imagination and knowing that when done it will be a great building and that some happy family will be living in there. Its very nice to know what goes into a house or building works together perfectly to put a roof on a family or a group of people. Every little detail creates a building and to watch it slowly turn from nothing to a building is an amazing site. I really know that college is very hard at times but sticking with it will give you a great accomplishment and will change your life. I really wish to become and architect but i need help. I can not do this alone.

Tatiana

My college experience has been filled with long nights, homework, new friends, and challenging but fun life experiences. I've learned to be tolerant of others and when to bite my tongue. I've learned that college is invaluable in the fact that no one can take my knowledge away. I have also learned college is about time management and teaching yourself what you need to learn. It is no longer the teachers job to make sure you know all of the presented material. I've realized the responsibility it takes to become a contributing member to the society and that everyone must take part in trying to better the world. The tests are hard, the environment is bustling, and I'm eager to finish the race.

mckenzie

So far i have gotten so much out of my college experience. I have matured greatly over the past year at school, being on my own and taking responsibility for my life and goals. I have learned how to live and get along with complete strangers, which is fun but not as easy as it seems like it will be. I have come to know who i am and who i want to be, i try to help others every chance i get. It has been valuable for me to attend this college because i do not think i would get the same experience and knowledge anywhere else in any other environment. thank you!

Joshua

My college experience so far has been great in many different areas. First and foremost our school teaches with a strong base in the beleif that there is a God. God means a lot to me and to have it taught in school is a great benefit. We learn also the sciences from the view of evolution as well but it is nice that there is no shyness around the subject of God, it is spoken of openly. I am going into a medical career and all the teachers that I have had, have worked in the field and bring real world knowledge and applicability to our learning. This has made the things that I have learned a lot more valuable and real to me as we have studied. Also the friends that I have made and the impact that they have made on me with my own personal growth is immense. Personal charachter is stressed greatly at this school helping each of us be more honest and true in all that we do.

Ayesha

By attending Hawai'i Pacific University, I have opened the door to so many new opportunities. As a freshman, I am already learning in the field (i.e. Oceanography on board the Kaholo in Kaneohe Bay), rather than confined to the traditional classroom environment. I have the opportunity to bask in the culture of Hawai'i and give back to the community through Hula, Choir, my participation with M?lama i n? Ahupua‘a for Cultural Anthropology, and through the ever-growing number of clubs HPU has to offer. Most importantly, I have had the opportunity to meet a great deal of people from all over the world, forming bonds that have the potential to last a lifetime. In addition to these opportunities, I have come to realize that attending college so far away from home was a very wise decision. The distance from my family has amplified my independence, and I am now more responsible. This experience has shaped me into the young woman I am today. I have come to realize my full potential and now with the resources provided by HPU (knowledgeable staff, rigorous yet useful coursework, etc.) I can truly reach for the stars.

Ashley

College has been a huge eye-opener for me. It was the first time that I have been away from home for over a month, first time sharing a room, first time taking all the bills into my own hands, first time really having the time and space to figure out myself and who i really am. There were many firsts that I experienced, some hard but others a breath of fresh air. When I first got there and started to go to the classes, they seemed so much more informative than High school, whereas it seemed they were just trying to get us through the lessons and get us graduated. The Professors that I had loved their job and loved the subjects that they were teaching! I seemed to pay attention better. I was drawn to their teachings because of their passion. As time went on I realized how much I took things for granted. Food, space, privacy, family, and friends. But it has helped me grow and has opened my eyes to things I didn't know and should acknowledge. I am more understanding now and hungry to learn.

Daniel

The college experience is much more complex than I thought it would be and at the same time very self-explanatory. Every teacher in my pathway has helped me to create the map of my future together with their insights on the topics at hand and also their knowledge and guidance on life in general. I have learned what I want to do as a career now after switching my major a few times. I have continually been blessed to change and mold myself into a better person day by day here especially at BYU-I. The friends that I have made here are examples to me and I hope to be their friends well after the college experience ends. Ihave learned to be interdependent and not only survive but to succeed in the path I choose to take. I have been able to better discern between the things that will benefit my time the most and the things that I must say no to. The college experience is continually forcing me to broaden my view of the potential of my future and allowing me to not want this time to go much faster. It brings happiness to my life.

Lora

I've come to know that people can be kind and really interested in their education. High school wasn't like that. I also love how the Spirit is in the classroom. It's amazing what you can learn and really UNDERSTAND when you've got the Spirit teaching you as well as your actual teacher. Also, the BYU - I learning model is incredible. It's so effective.

David

Now I can make informed decisions about lifes choices. I am no longer held back by ignorance but now can walk tall knowing that I am educated and have the skills necessary to succeed no matter what the difficulties may be.

jacob

I am a freshmen in college trying to pay my way through college to become a nurse and some day a doctor but its hard driving to a college thats and hour away and working as a waiter to pay for college. My college experience so far has been very eye opening for me, and i am loving my college experience so far. I just hope that i can finish school with as little debt as possible and become a nurse and travel to different countries and use my nursing skills to help save lives.

Mark

College has taught me how important it is to have goals, and how time is a precious resource than can be spent wisely or squandered foolishly. In order to do well in college, one has to set a lot of goals in order to create oppurtunities in the future. I've learned to schdeule my time around my school assingments, work, and social events. I make sure I put first things first, and complete my academic work and financial responsbilities before I go goof off with friends. This way I know if something unexpected comes up, or an assignment takes longer than expected, I can still finish it and have time to turn in quality work. Not procrastinating gives you a lot of peace of mind, because you don't have that homework assignment nagging at the back of your brain and allows you to fully focus on other things. You have to get your studying done sometime, so why not make it your first priority?And sometimes you need to schedule something fun to protect your sanity. Learning to balance between work and play is what makes you a happy, well rounded human being, who still gets good grades.

Kristin

College has shown me that there are several different types of people with different learning styles in the world. It has allowed me to grow in my personal knowledge as well as gain experience in life. College has also shown me how to be a functioning and useful member of society and to be strong in myself. My college is small and personal which has been a nice transition from high school to a University. But I believe my university will be a great chance to learn more about others as well as myself. College is a truly amazing place to learn about life, it shows you everything that the world has to offer. College teachers are also very helpful when it comes to training you for the work world. I enjoy college because it really opens your eyes to the real world.

Natalya

It has enlightened me of the many things I can do to benefit my future. As well as ways to live and support my future family. It has helped me to make wise decisions. It was a great way to expand my horizons and see things as other people do and not only from myself.

Dyllon

i havent attended college yet but am in need of a scholarship to pay for the lake technical center institue of public safety. i was recently accepted and now just have to find a way to pay

Rachel

I have learned so much while I've been away at school. One of the main experiences I've gained while attending has been learning to work hard. I cannot say anything in my life has been as tough as the music program I am currently in. It takes huge amounts of time and work to be able to make it through each semester on top. I had to practice the piano for two hours a day, everyday. This takes a large chunk of time out of a schedule for socializing, or even just other school work. Because of that, I have had to dedicate a lot of my time to school while my friends and roommates went out to have fun. I had to learn to say no, so I could achieve my goal: graduation. I may not be graduating yet, but in order to reach that, I have to be dedicated to my schooling. There is no doubt in my mind that this has been good for me. If I had not learned this, how could I ever survive in the world after I am finished with college? I would barely get by.

Mandy

I have always wanted to be a teacher. I have learned so much on how to become a great teacher and a great person. It has taught me to work hard and that good things come if you do. It has given me an opportunity to get to know people from all over the United States and all over the world. It has been valuable becasue I don't think I would be the same person I am today without the experience I have had at college. It has made me more independent and sure of myself. I have gained more confidence in myself than I ever have. I have loved every minute of my college experience.

Connie

I have gotten my self esteem back. I am a wife and mother of three and I thought that was it for me. I think at this point the degree that I'm getting is second in regards to how I feel about myself now. I have a positive attitude now and I try to use that in everything in my life now. My kids, my marriage, my health, and my schooloing. I currently have a 3.89 GPA and I now love school. I hated high school, now I look forward to every class. The college experience has given me my life back. I look forward to my future because with the degree I will soon have (2-4 years). I will be able to get a good job and help financially at home and put my kids through college. MY FUTURE IS BRIGHT!!!!!!

Brittney

My college experience has been great. I have learned how to effectively schedule my time, how to study for difficult tests, how to communicate effectively, and how to live on my own. I have learned so much that will benefit me in the career I wish to obtain. The classes that I have taken have given me the skills that I will need in my future such as how to make informed, unbiased decisions. It has been so valuable to me to attend college because it has given me such great life skills that I will use for the rest of my life. It has given me the necessary tools that I will need for my career as well as other aspects of my life. If given the choice, I would not go back because of all the wonderful things that I have learned. It has prepared me for more education, life, and my career.

M'Kenzi

From my college experience I have gained so many positive attributes as well as made many valuable acquaintances that have helped me in my future endeavors. I have so many goals and dreams for my future that sometimes I become discouraged and my hopes are diminished. However, here at Brigham Young University - Idaho I have explored many careers and learned that the possiblities are endless! The connections I have made with the people here have been unforgettable and the individualized classes have allowed me to develop a close relationship to the professors as well. This last semester I was given the opportunity to participate in a travel study program to MesoAmerica through the school. As a group of students we travelled to Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize and had amazing experiences. From hiking an active volcano to giving dental supplies to children, to zip-lining through the forrest and learning about ancient cultures and ruins, It was a beautiful way to experience schooling and obtain experience through taking college courses in different countries. I like to think that I have been permanently altered for better. These are just some of the things that I have gotten out of my college experience.

Erica

From my college experience so far I've learned that most of the time it's a real pain in the neck to go to college-- everything that goes on, tbalancing work, family life, homework, time management, and a social life all at the same time is extrememly tiring and sometimes... it makes me want to quit. I like to learn, but college burns me out. Sure it's nice to feel like a responsible adult because I make my own desicions now, but I don't always want to make my own desicions anymore. I do, however, want to succeed. Right now I feel like the fruits of my labors will not be worth what I'm going through. But I've learned that the harder it is, the stronger it will make me. If I choose not to quit, if I keep going--and with a determination as strong as the human instinct is to survive, I will have success--I will be successful. I see it every day. In my teachers, my classmates, those who've made it, and those who've chosen to give up. And I know I'm right where I need to be.

Benjamin

From my college experience I have learned much in many ways other than academically. I have learned how to deal with people. Knowing how to effectively communicate with my professors as well as my peers has helped me to make great relationships, and provide opportunities for internships, jobs, service projects, and other activities that otherwise may not have presented themselves. I also met my spouse here, that is the best gift any university could ever give. My faith in God has increased, and my capacity to work is greater. I have recieved a well-rounded education that will help me to diversify my portfolio. I am a better person thanks to the fact that I attend Brigham Young University.

Alison

Throughout my college experience I have learned the importance of focusing on your studies and not goofing around. I personally am facing the difficulty of being dyslexic, but I have never let that hinder me. It has been a different change from high school to college with this disability and I have noticed at times that I might be behind people and it is important to not slack off or procrastinate. School is an opportunity and I have experienced long nights of studying and no sleep, but it is worth it. I have found life long friends and the people are what make your college life something worth having. The rewards and the benefits are that you have gained an experience that has allowed you to grow and develop from the immature students you once were, into people of society.

Lindsey

My college expirience has shown me that if I work hard enough and try the best I can, I will make it on my own. I can be who ever it is I strive to be. This world may be tough and at times make one feel that they will never be able to succeed. I know at times I have felt like this. But when I do my best in school and listen to my teachers who encourage and push me to succeed, I feel I can accomplish anything. And yes, I did say that my college professors do care about their students. These professors really want us to go out into the world and make something of ourselves so we can be examples of what we stand for and examples of our education. This has been a valuable blessing in my life to go to a school that makes me feel driven. I know that in the future I can be a great asset to who ever I work for and a great asset to society. This expirience is not only shaping me, but my children and generations to come. That they may know that knowledge is power.

Cameron

So far my college experience has made me realize the precious value of self worth. Through various life-changing experiences during my time here I have come to realize that it is not about who I am or who I was in high school. Instead, it is about who I am choosing to become and how I choose to treat those around me--with the respect and dignity they deserve. My school has proved its value through a challenging education that has guided me towards a career choice that will fullfill what I really want to do with my life. While attending, I have discovered many cherished and personal relationships and friendships that will endure beyond merely going to the same school--including the love of my life, my wife. Furthermore, I have valued my attendance here so far because this college has enabled me to discover and deepen many passions that used to hold no more significance in my mind than mere hobbies and idle pastimes.

baily

Going back to school for myself has been so very rewarding. To be 45 and a single mother of 2 small children i belive we can get so stuck in what we feel to be as downward spiral. As i decieded to give up my carerr in a social work field after 8 years i have realized Yes I Can Do This. I want to make a better life formy kids and be that mom they can look up to and the role model to be proud of. I'm not only gaining a new carerr path but the confidence to say no matter what situation you end up in it's your ultimate choice to decide what to do withthat. Kudos to myself and the confidence to say, I"m gonna make it and be some one amazing soon. thank you

laurenfaavae

I was taught at very young age education was key to life. Because of my finacial status i wasunable to go to a four year, I went to a nearby junior college. Los Angeles Harbor College has given me the chance to further my education. I have learn how to balance my school life with home, and volleyball. I have made many friends due to playing volleyball for the school. I have gotten the chance to to be taught by many valued and excellent profeesors. Harbor college has given me nothing but happy moments. I have found by attending harbor college it has eased me into the college life. I now feel comfortable in attending a four year university. I have been lucky enough to be accepted to Brigham Young University of Hawaii. And that wouldnt have been possiable if I didnt start at Harbor College.

Ema

My college experience has taught me the true value of hardwork. through research, study, homework, and tests. I learned that nothing ever comes easy. It has taught me the value of friendships and building trust with roommates, professors, and classmates. Through my college experience I was able to learn about who I was, and what I wanted to become. It taught me that I can be myself, that my opinion counts, and that my goals and dreams are acheivable. It guided and molded me into the person I am today. My college experience opened my eyes to the possibilities in the world, and most importantly within myself. It has been because of my overall college experience, inside and outside the classroom, that I have decided to persue my master's degree.

Sarah

I loved my college experience because I was able to be involved in what I wanted to be on campus. Learning opportunities were available and worth the effort put into it. I loved being involved and feeling like I belonged and could do things. I loved college!

Jennifer

Gaining more knowledge is the most important to me. I will never know when I will need to use the degree that I will be getting. With having my father pass away and my mother having to support four young children was hard on her. With getting this education, it will benifit me to know that I will have something to fall back on and not get lost and not be able to support thoes that I love.