Several graduating seniors at Brigham Young University-Idaho reflected on their college experiences, sharing lessons learned about involvement, perseverance, and seeking guidance as they prepare to graduate this April.
“Get involved”- Daniel’s story
Senior communication major Daniel Sorensen began his studies at BYUI in Fall 2022, shortly after returning from a mission in New England. He described the adjustment to student life as challenging, particularly in the area of emotional growth.
Sorensen prioritized forming genuine connections and intentionally sought to become more extroverted, leading him to join country dancing two-and-a-half years ago. He has since become an instructor.
Sorensen, who initially considered transferring to the University of Utah, changed his plans after meeting his fiancée, Emma. The couple plans to marry and move to Boise in August, where Emma will attend law school.
Sorensen emphasized the importance of getting involved in college, stating, “Get involved in a good social activity, don’t stay in your apartment…that’s what makes it worth it.”
“Seek God’s help”- Viktoriia’s story
Viktoriia Southwell, a horticulture major, began her college education in St. Petersburg, Russia, in September 2019. She initially felt insecure about studying landscape architecture.
Southwell spent a semester in Latvia in Winter 2022 and joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during that time. She then served a mission in the Baltic States from summer 2022 to late 2023.
After her mission, Southwell attended BYU in Winter 2024 before transferring to BYUI in Fall 2024. She believes she gained technical skills at previous universities and spiritual insight at BYUI, viewing her career path as seeking God’s inspiration.
Southwell plans to graduate in April but needs to complete an internship later this year. She initially planned to attend graduate school at Utah State University but now intends to gain experience with a company to obtain a landscape architecture license.
Southwell advised others to “Seek God’s help and God’s direction,” emphasizing perseverance through challenges.
“Don’t be afraid to try new things”- Evelyn’s story
Evelyn Semerau, a recreation management major, will graduate in April. She began her studies at BYUI in Winter 2019, describing herself as introverted and lacking confidence at the time.
Semerau learned the value of utilizing professors for help, a resource she initially hesitated to use. She also highlighted the willingness of professors to assist students.
Semerau advised students to “Don’t be afraid to try new things,” suggesting that overcoming fears requires practice. She shared her experience taking a welding class for fun and doing summer sales to overcome her fear of talking to people.
“The only way to overcome a fear is to face it,” Semerau said.
The road goes on
Viktoriia Southwell expressed increased confidence in her skills and future plans. Daniel Sorensen encouraged fellow graduates to “Enjoy the moment” and embrace the unexpected.
Evelyn Semerau emphasized savoring the college experience, recalling a canyoneering class as a particularly memorable experience.
As seniors like Sorensen, Southwell, Semerau, and others conclude their time at BYUI, they embark on new journeys shaped by their experiences.
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