The Unique Value of a BYU Education

The Question

Over the last few days I’ve written and re-written this post probably a dozen times. I’ve gone through so many different versions it’s not even funny. Now, you’re probably wondering, “what on earth could be giving you so much trouble?” Well that’s a great question. Recently I’ve been giving a lot of thought to what unique value I’ve received from my education here at Brigham Young University.  In other words, what’s so special about coming to BYU instead of any other school in the world?

As I’ve thought about this question, I’ve considered the cultural diversity, unique viewpoints, world views, and much more that BYU has to offer. And yet, every time I finish a draft focusing on one of those truly great things BYU has to offer it’s never felt quite right. A quiet voice in the back of my mind whispers, those are all good, but there is still something you’re missing. Then the other day I was talking with a friend I hadn’t seen since Freshman year. A friend who’s name I couldn’t even remember. But for some reason she felt inspired to come talk to me. Even more interestingly she brought up BYU’s motto, “Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve”.

Discovering the Answer

That’s when it hit me. Education is great, but it doesn’t mean much if I don’t use that education to help those around me. After all, life is already hard for so many of us, isn’t it the responsibility of those with means to help those without? Or as BYU likes to say, "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve." Of course, that’s just a motto, how does that really translate into BYU’s unique and defining feature? How does BYU not only teach its students’ knowledge but instill in them a sense of duty and a desire to serve others? Also why is service even important?

Now some might find this a little weird, but I think one of the things BYU does that’s been so effective in teaching me about service is making course work hard. And when I say hard, I mean some of the assignments I’ve done have been downright ridiculous. School at BYU is by no means easy. But in that difficulty, I feel there’s an opportunity, if you’re willing to find it. BYU is full of very smart people. Most are willing to help with problems. For example, I ironically struggled quite a bit with the most basic level chem class offered at BYU. In fact, the term struggle might be an understatement. My head literally felt like it was going to explode every time I looked at a homework assignment. (I think part of the problem was the teacher taught according to class questions and my class was full of chem geniuses weirdly enough).

Teaching by Example

Thankfully I had a friend who was studying for the MCAT and as part of his studying he volunteered to help me with my basic homework. I’ve never been so grateful. This isn’t even an isolated case; I’ve had friends and teachers volunteer to help me understand difficult course material in many other fields. Never once have they asked for something in return. They just volunteered their free time for my benefit. And I know I’m not the only student who has found help from their peers. I’ve helped many students myself over the course of my time at BYU.   

How does this teach a sense of service? By example. The more I learn what it feels like to be served, the more I want to share that feeling with those around me. As people help me my view of the world becomes less cynical and more positive. I see people less as obstacles and more as individuals who, like me, could occasionally use a helping hand. And as I helped other people, I’ve formed lasting relationships that I honestly wouldn’t trade for anything.  

There a many other examples I could use to illustrate how BYU really helps instill service into all those who pass through its doors. The way classes are taught, service opportunities, the chance to see the world, speeches, and even the just the way the people here live their lives. BYU strives to set an example for its students. In turn these students try to share that example with the world and make it a better place. Some might think that’s naive, but if I’ve learned anything from my time here at BYU it’s that some of my happiest memories come from helping others. Even if I’m just raking some leaves. Through service we become the best version of ourselves. This is what sets my BYU education apart from any other education in the world.