BYU-Idaho Students Reflect on Lessons Learned as Graduation Approaches
As the academic year draws to a close, graduating seniors at Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYUI) are reflecting on their experiences and the lessons they’ve learned during their time in Rexburg. From navigating personal growth and forming meaningful connections to seeking spiritual guidance and embracing new opportunities, these students share insights that resonate with the broader college experience.
Finding Connection and Community
Daniel Sorensen, a graduating communication major, emphasized the importance of getting involved on campus. Arriving at BYUI shortly after returning from a mission in New England, Sorensen found the transition challenging. He prioritized forming “genuine connections” and discovered a passion for country dancing, eventually becoming an instructor. He also found love, becoming engaged to Emma, and plans to move to Boise with her in August, where she will attend law school. “Receive involved in a good social activity, don’t stay in your apartment,” Sorensen advises. “If you desire to have genuine connections with people and make your college experience more fulfilling, get involved in activities…that’s what makes it worth it.”
The Power of Faith and Perseverance
Viktoriia Southwell, a horticulture major, shared her journey of overcoming initial insecurities in the landscape architecture program. She joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during her studies and later served a mission in the Baltic States. Southwell credits her faith with providing the strength to persevere. “Seek God’s help and God’s direction, because He really is why I was able to move forward and not give up on this journey,” she said. While initially planning to attend graduate school at Utah State University, Southwell now intends to gain practical experience with a company to become licensed in landscape architecture. She believes in the importance of commitment, stating, “If I’m doing something, I want to be 100% committed to it.”
Embracing New Experiences and Overcoming Fears
Evelyn Semerau, a recreation management major, highlighted her personal growth during her time at BYUI. Initially shy and hesitant to seek help from professors, Semerau learned to embrace available resources and build connections with faculty. She emphasized the willingness of professors to assist students, recalling how one professor helped her get certified in wilderness first aid simply because she asked. Semerau encourages students to “not be afraid to try new things,” sharing her experience taking a welding class for fun and participating in a canyoneering course that involved a five-day trip to Southern Utah. “Just give it a shot,” she said. “Just move out and try something fun in your time here.”
Looking Ahead
As these students prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them valuable lessons learned at BYUI. Southwell encourages future students to trust in their abilities and persevere through challenges, reminding them, “You can do hard things.” Sorensen advises enjoying the present moment, while Semerau emphasizes the importance of embracing new experiences. These graduating seniors exemplify the transformative power of higher education and the enduring impact of the BYUI experience.