Award-Winning Digital Strategist
In January 2025, a fellow journalism alumnus and I were invited to be interviewed on BYU-Idaho’s Fulfilling the Mission podcast, which highlights students’ experiences and how they align with the university’s mission.
I was thrilled to be interviewed for this podcast—it was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on my college experience and share insights that could benefit future students!
I received multiple awards for communication, journalism, and project management as an undergraduate student at BYU-Idaho! Check them out below.
The Gordon B. Hinckley Communicator Award honors students who exemplify President Hinckley’s legacy, recognizing students with leadership skills, character, talent, diligence, and a commitment to excellence.
To receive this, you must be nominated by multiple Communication faculty, and recipients are seen as exemplary representatives of the Church, university, and department. As President Hinckley stated, “Communication is the basic element of leadership.”
BYU-Idaho’s news organization, Scroll, received first place for general excellence from the Idaho Press Club! This was thanks to my leadership and the work of my reporters, colleagues, and faculty.
This award is given to a news organization that demonstrates the highest overall quality in journalism across all aspects of their reporting, including writing, design, and coverage, within the Idaho region, signifying exceptional work across the board in their publications.
To see all the work we did as a team, click the post below!
Scroll received first place for its documentary coverage of Idaho National Laboratory from the Idaho Press Club. As the pre-producer for this film, I can certainly say it was a team effort! This award is given to a video story, planned or unplanned, and it can be issue or event-oriented.
One of my reporters, Gabriela Fletcher, won first place for her article: Idaho and the Energy Future: MARVEL microreactor paves way for clean energy.
Check out the post below to see all our articles and the documentary!
My article received third place in the Idaho Press Club’s “Light Feature Award.” This award is given to stories that show a human interest or humorous feature. Check out the story below!
Writing is a craft, and being a good writer is not something that you are born with. Whether you’ve an avid creative writer or you only write to finish an assignment, there are still ways to improve your work, and I’m here to help.
As a freelance writer, self-published author and Editor in Chief of my school newspaper, I have hundreds of hours of tedious editing and creative writing experience. This article is designed for those who consider themselves beginner writers and want to strengthen their skills. There are 6 tools I use on the daily to make my writing pop, they can be used in academia or just for fun, but I promise they are worth your time.
Let’s get started!
This may be a first for those who have ever hated writing an English paper in high school, but do not write like you’re trying to reach a word-count. Yes, please toss that mindset out the window, because to write well is to provide a clear opinion or piece of information, not reach the 1,000 word-count that your teacher provided.
If you come across a part in your writing that is quite complicated or you are not confident in, try cutting any extra words by breaking up your sentences. This is a good way to “cut the fluff,” or lose the unneeded words in your piece. You can also look for run-on sentences and find ways to break it up.
Think about a famous artist. What makes them good? The best artists are usually multi-faceted, meaning, they can be good at many things. For example, a great artists can create realistic and abstract pieces.
The same is with a good writer.
When you write, use different sentence types. Find ways use long and short sentences. When you have a long sentence, use it as an opportunity to add some rhythm to your article; to explain the technical, the beautiful and the emotional things you want to share. But know when to stop. You can add abruptness, like the flick of a paint brush, to prove your point. Both kinds of sentences are needed, and each make your piece feel like music to write and to read.
One of the things I love so much about writing is that there is not always a “right” answer. This isn’t math. There is not rule that can be the only solution. Grammar is the closest thing to a hard and fast writing rule, and even that is relative depending on the style and type of piece you are creating.
So, when you feel the stress to get your writing “just perfect,” and you don’t know the “right” way to do it, take a step back, because writing has two tools to help: syntax and prosody.
Syntax refers to the rules in writing, like the grammar and sentence structure. Prosody means the tone, timing and stress in your writing.
So, syntax is the rules, prosody is the emotion. And that’s it.
For example, every comma I place in this blog post happens because I follow the correct grammar rules. But the words I use, the tone I write in and the placement of my sentence structure is all because of prosody. It’s letting my personality shine, and I love that in writing I can combine rules with expression. I choose how I say what I want to say.
And you can do it too, which is why I am so confident that anyone can write well.
The definition of active voice is when the subject performs the action. The definition of passive voice is when the subject of your sentence is acted on by the verb.
The subject of a sentence is any noun that the sentence is about. The verb of a sentence means the action.
Let’s look at an example.
Active voice: The dog chases the ball.
In this example, the subject is “dog,” and the verb is “chases.” Here, the subject, “dog,” is performing the action, which is “chases.”
But when you write in passive voice, this is flipped.
Passive voice: The ball is being chased by the dog.
Now, the verb, “ball,” is acted on by the subject, “dog.”
Makes sense?
If it doesn’t, that’s okay. Here is another tip I have.
Like I said earlier, in writing, we want to be clear. When you write in passive voice, your sentence is typically wordier. You are not as clear, thus losing your reader. Additionally, there are times where you actually need to use passive voice. So, avoid it when you can.
Here are two passages, one that is passive and one that is active, from writerswrite.co.za. See if you can find the difference.
Passive:
The contract was cancelled by the studio managers. Hidden behind their stoic lawyers the messages were passed down. Words like ‘iron clad’ and ‘final notice’ were thrust into their faces. Voices were raised. Emotions were not kept in check. Fury rose unbridled. Tears were making black rivulets down red cheeks. A Union-rep was called. False hopes and empty promises were doled out to hysterical actors. Hands were flying; papers flew even further. Exasperation and desperation were etched on their expressive faces. No acting was required. Unemployment cheques did not promise a merry Christmas.
Active:
The studio managers cancelled the contract. They hid behind their stoic lawyers who passed the message down. The lawyers used words like ‘iron clad’ and ‘final notice’. The actors raised their voices and struggled to keep their emotions in check. Their fury rose unbridled. They cried black tears over red cheeks. They called their union reps who gave them false hopes and made empty promises. They threw their hands and the papers in the air. They were exasperated and desperate. They didn’t need to act this out. They knew unemployment cheques did not promise a merry Christmas.
When you write in active voice, typically, you make more sense to your reader. Your work is also stronger. Sometimes, when I tell my reporters to stop writing in passive voice, I don’t necessarily mean that I check that their sentence structure lines up perfectly with the definition of active voice. I just mean to cut the extra words and be clear. Shorten your sentences. Know when to make it brief and when to expand.
It’s really about following your intuition.
Let get one thing straight. If you don’t know what you’re talking about, your reader will know. That is why researching your topic before you write is critical to the process.
So, what’s your main idea? Why are you writing this piece?
If you are writing for an assignment, great. What are the instructions for this assignment? Is there a word count? Is there a certain topic your teacher or client wants you to write in a specific way?
If you are writing something for fun, cool! What story are you trying to tell? Is there a lesson you want the reader to learn? How well do you know your characters or your topic?
The best way to answer all these questions is to create an outline. It doesn’t need to look a certain way, and there are no right number of bullet points you should have figured out before you create. Once you answer your main idea, and create somewhat of a structure before you begin, it can help you write. Especially if you don’t know where to start.
The last great writing tip I have to share with you is really simple. It has nothing to do with prosody, active voice and outlines.
Read your paper out loud.
You can read it to yourself or a friend, but once you take the brave step of vocalizing your work, it’s easy to see the mistakes. The parts that sound awkward. The sections where you can clearly tell that you don’t know what you’re talking about.
We are our own worst critics, and sometimes it’s helpful when we write. But before you read your paper out loud, make sure to give yourself time to write things down without judgement. Let yourself actually put words to a page before you tear it apart. Allow yourself to create, to write. Only then can you become a good writer.
This article was written for BYU-I’s news organization, Scroll.
On Sept. 6, Isabelle Justice met with President Alvin F. Meredith III and Jennifer Edgin Meredith to discuss the couple’s hopes as the new leaders of BYU-Idaho.
“We know that (BYU-I students) can become disciples (of Jesus Christ) and become experts and scholars in their fields,” said President Meredith. “I am really grateful for that vision of BYU-I — a vision that we are inheriting.
On May 16, President Meredith was announced as BYU-Idaho’s 18th president, succeeding Henry J. Eyring who served for six years. His inauguration is on Oct. 10 in the BYU-Idaho Center.
“It’s just very humbling,” said Sister Meredith. “We know that this stewardship is a very sacred responsibility.”
The Merediths began their stewardship at BYU-I in the summer and are connecting with the Rexburg community.
“BYU-Idaho is famously friendly,” said President Meredith. “That’s the phrase that we’ve heard and we have felt that. You know, we’re from Tennessee and so we know southern hospitality when we see it. We just didn’t expect to see it in Southern Idaho.”
President and Sister Meredith have six children — four boys and two girls — and each served a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. President Meredith is continuing to serve as a General Authority Seventy while president of BYU-I.
“(Our children) are excited to be here,” President Meredith explained. “When they learned of this assignment, they changed the name of our family group chat from ‘Meredith Family’ to ‘Tater Tots.’”
The exclusive interview can be viewed below.
This article was written for BYU-I’s news organization, Scroll.
On Tuesday, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced a no-cost print subscription for its three magazines: Liahona, For the Strength of Youth and Friend.
This offer is available in specific parts of the world, but over the next several months it will reach every part of the globe, according to the Church Newsroom. To qualify, users need a church account which allows one annual subscription per household.
“The Church wants to give greater access to the words of the prophets, and we are excited to make the printed copies of the Church magazines available at no-cost.” said Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in a press release.
In 2021, the Church magazines underwent major changes to better serve its readers across the world. Today, all magazines are available at no-charge in the Gospel Library and are translated into 50 languages.
Members 18 years and older can manage their Church magazine subscription and can sign up for email notifications.
The Liahona is a Church magazine that contains messages from Church leaders about difficult topics and gospel principles. It also highlights inspiring stories from members across the world.
The Liahona‘s target audience is adult members of the Church.It began printing in 1907 and has been available worldwide since 2021.
The For Strength of Youth was created for adolescents ages 11 to 18, and shares spiritually strengthening messages and activities. The publication was originally called New Era, but, in efforts to be a global church, was rebranded in 2021. The For Strength of Youth has fewer pages than the New Era which allows it to be printed in 48 languages.
“This will be the first time that many youth … outside of English-speaking countries will be able to subscribe to a magazine with messages specifically directed to them,” stated a press release from the Church.
Formally called The Children’s Friend from 1902 until 1970, the Friend is a magazine curated by the Church for children under the age of 11. It includes scripture stories, child-friendly messages from Church leaders, coloring pages and testimonies.
On the Friend’s 50th anniversary, the magazine became global. In January of 2021, the Friend was printed into 48 different languages and sent to about 150 countries.
This article was written for BYU-I’s news organization, Scroll.
On Tuesday, BYU-Idaho students shared their thoughts with Scroll about the upcoming fall semester, and what kinds of changes could be coming to campus.
“I’m looking forward to the cooler weather and all the fall leaves,” said Kallie Larson, a BYU-I student. “I’m excited to meet new people, learn new things and have new experiences.”
Accompanying the arriving semester is a CES-wide change to the Honor Code, Dress and Grooming standards and Ecclesiastical Endorsements.
“I think it’s pretty cool,” said Natalia Perry, a student majoring in international studies, when asked about the update.”It’s quite inspired and it’s exciting to have those little changes.”
Although the changes are small, the way campus expectations are now worded has left an impact on students.
“I love how it talks about thinking about whether you’ve been endowed or not to think about if your clothes will cover your garments,” Larson said. “And how you would feel being around the Savior with what you’re wearing.”
Bella Sonae, a student at BYU-Idaho, said she was excited to wear shorts during the warmer season.
“It has been really hot because we have been walking from the Cedars to (the Manwaring Center),” Sonae said. “It has been really hot in pants, so I’m so excited to wear shorts and skirts.”
Another big change at BYU-I has been the change in presidency. On Aug. 1, President Alvin F. Meredith III began his tenure at BYU-I.
“He’s actually one of my friend’s mission presidents,” said Perry, when asked about President Meredith. “He’s done a great job so far.”
President Meredith served as a mission president for the Utah Salt Lake City South Mission and began his service as a General Seventy in 2021.
“He seems close to the Lord,” Larson said. “He is very aware of the students and their needs.”
A video sharing student’s responses can be seen on Instagram.
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For a journalism course, I wrote a feature article about the Library Aid in the Special Collections archives at BYU-Idaho. I created a magazine with this content, and below are the results of this project. This article is also on Scroll.
“It’s important that history is recognized as being important,” said Braden.
His aviator glasses sat comfortably on the bridge of his nose. His honey-blonde hair was tucked behind his ears. His index finger and thumb rested on his chin as he calculated an insightful answer to my overarching question. When I asked Braden Chancellor if it’s important that everyone has a basic knowledge of history, he didn’t give a long-winded answer like I was expecting. He didn’t preach about how the study of history is a dying art, instead, he explained that historians want their profession recognized and respected.
“We have a lot of focus on STEM, right? Just as a university and a nation,” Braden said, his hands danced in the air to emphasize his point. “I think that a focus on STEM is great and some could argue that it has more value, but I know history has a significance that people don’t recognize.”
Braden Chancellor is a Library Aide for the Special Collections, an archive on campus that is tucked away on the second floor of the library. It is a place where prehistoric artifacts and the history of Upper Snake River Valley are kept safe. The room itself is quiet. Cozy. Serene. The carpet was brown and blue. Vintage, from the 50s, Braden said. There were shelves of books and bust statues, lines of blue-clothed rocking chairs, and an exhibit about religious texts. Braden pulled a chair for me, and we sat across each other on a long table on the north side of the room.
“I led this,” he said and pointed around at the foam posters and glass containers that surrounded us. Each exhibit protected religious books that were hundreds of years old. “I started getting involved with the exhibits and writing … they said that I was doing a good job and asked if I could be in charge of planning the others.”
While the exhibit sat perfectly in the front of the room, Braden did most of his work in the back. The archives. They spiral like a maze and are only open to the employees.
“At first, I took old materials that people donated and organized them,” he said. “It was just indexing for a little bit, but I wasn’t on that for very long. I got introduced to exhibit planning, right?”
And that’s where his passion lies, he clarified. And as he did, something switched in Braden. His eyes lit up and a smile crept across his face. It’s the kind of smile only those passionate about their career show, and he reminds me of myself. Braden’s niche is history, mine is writing. Writing gives me the space to speak my mind or speak it for others. History gives Braden the space to understand the world. It’s not often that I meet someone so vocal about what they care for.
“I would love to be in a museum and teach people about history in a creative way,” he said when I asked him about his dream job. “As long as I can make enough to support my family. Whether it’s a city historian, state historian … I like the idea of being able to be a well-respected authority. You want people to say your name and know who they are talking about.”
I asked how he first started to love history. He told me that it was because of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies.
“I loved learning about these stories,” he said, laughing. “I would get little fact books about pirates and tell my friends and family about what I learned.”
And when Braden got into advanced placement classes in high school, his interest in history blossomed into a passion, one that followed him into his college career. Once at BYU-Idaho, Braden realized that a history degree was more versatile than he originally thought.
“There is this area of study—it’s kind of new—comes from the 1670’s, and it’s called public history,” he said while tapping his pointer finger on the table. “Examples of that would be working in museums, battlegrounds, and national parks. Those are areas of employment that historians actually get hired to do rather than teaching.”
Braden does what many are afraid to do: follow their dreams. He explained that it was understandable why many don’t, but it’s necessary to follow through with the gifts God has given us. And it’s more than just wishful thinking. Braden completed an internship with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he was able to index records that were hundreds of years old. That internship got him his job in the Special Collections.
And that’s why I interviewed him. Actually, that’s why I interviewed him twice. I couldn’t get enough of Braden’s bright mind, or shake the notion that more people need to be as driven as he is.
“I received a blessing that said how important my education would be; that I would be able to find a career that supports my family,” he shared. “I think back to why it’s okay that I didn’t pursue a STEM career even if it’s more valuable. It’s because I’m naturally interested in answering these questions.”
Do you think that everyone needs to ask why as you do, I ask.
“I think it’s necessary for some people to ask why in life, but I don’t think it’s necessary for everyone to,” he responds, buckling my argument that everyone needs to be fueled by their interests alone. “There’s going to be some that are curious, and there’s going to be some people who want to take it as it is—that’s okay.”
And then it makes sense: just like it’s not essential to know the periodic table, it’s not crucial that everyone has definite knowledge of history. All he, and historians want, is for us to value them. Include them in the modern discussion too, because they do have a voice.
“I’ve had some people say not to make your hobby your job,” Braden confessed. “What if this hobby is so important to me that I want it to take eight hours of my day? I don’t want to sit in an office and do sales … I want the bulk of my life to be focused on my family. I want history to be a part of it.”
This article was written for a journalism course at BYU-I.
As Marcia Davis walked through the halls of Cambridge Prep Academy in Lake City, Florida, she felt out of place. Davis could see some students talking, while another group of friends waved “hello” to her. Most high school students feel awkward, but for Davis it was different. She was accepted, but it wasn’t the same. Why?
Because Davis has severe hearing loss.
For 22-year-old Davis, a student at Brigham Young University-Idaho studying communication, hearing takes all her effort.
“My hearing aids help with my articulation,” said Davis. “It makes me feel every click in my mouth, so I can talk more clearly. I would not be anything like I am today without hearing aids.”
For Idaho citizens that have hearing loss, Davis’s story can now be theirs. According to the Idaho Deaf and Hard of Hearing Council, certain residents are now eligible for free or discounted hearing aids.
“Assistive technology promotes greater independence by enabling people to perform tasks that they were formerly unable to accomplish,” said the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Council on their website.
Heidi Smith, BYU-I’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Coordinator, helps Rexburg, Idaho residents get access to hearing aids.
“If a deaf or hard of hearing person qualifies, they might get their hearing aids paid for,” said Smith. “It needs to be either student or job-related. If the hearing aids will help the student graduate and find a good job, or if the person needs hearing aids to work, then it is my understanding that they will help to pay for them.”
Smith recommended contacting Vocational Rehab, which is a state-funded program that has offices across Idaho.
“Vocational Rehabilitation … provides comprehensive vocational services to individuals with disabilities,” stated the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation on their website. “The scope of rehabilitation services that may be provided is extensive and includes services that lead to employment which will also result in increasing an individual’s independence and self-worth.”
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation focuses on getting residents with disabilities functioning in a school or work environment. But for Idaho residents who don’t want to go through state services, there are other ways they can get hearing assistive devices.
Idaho residents can apply for grants or payment through Ear Nose and Throat Offices across the state, such as Idaho Assistive Technology Project in Moscow or the Assistive League of Boise in Boise. Additionally, national programs like The Hike Fund, Easter Seals, and Optimist Club can get residents free or discounted hearing aids.
For many deaf and hard-of-hearing residents, hearing assistive devices are outside of their financial means. According to Customer Affairs, hearing aids average at $2,300 per device in 2023, making this a nearly $5,000 investment.
Davis was able to invest in hearing aids and got her first pair at 15 months old.
“When (my parents) found out I was hearing impaired, I was so behind and couldn’t speak,” she explained. “Because I was still young, I still had the chance to learn how to talk.”
With the help of her hearing aids and speech therapy, Davis now blends into a hearing world.
“There were lots of moments when I did feel behind, but the hearing aids have always helped,” Davis said. “Without hearing aids, I wouldn’t be able to talk. I would just use ASL, write, read lips – it would be a completely different life.”
However, the deaf and hard-of-hearing community does not always want hearing aids. Davin Glenn, a BYU-I graduate, is hard of hearing but never learned American Sign Language.
“Not every deaf person wants to blend into hearing culture,” said Glenn. “It can be controversial and I only speak for my own experiences as a hard-of-hearing person. I am able to lipread and I can get along fine, but many deaf people love their culture and don’t want to change it.”
Davis understands this, but still thinks the free or discounted hearing aids can benefit Idaho.
“I know there is a lot of debate about this,” Davis said. “I’m glad that I can fit into the norm of society rather than go and have to be in a specific community, which would be the deaf community.”
But Davis respects the deaf community, whether they want hearing-assisted devices or not.
“If (only learning ASL) had happened, I wouldn’t have known the difference and it would have been fine,” Davis explained. “But I wouldn’t be able to sing or be able to talk. I like being part of the norm. I’m glad they pushed not doing ASL and just focusing on speaking and hearing aids. I wish they did teach me ASL too just as a backup, but sign language was not encouraged back then.”
Sign language was not encouraged in mainstream culture until the late 2000’s, but Idaho is an anomaly in the deaf and hard-of-hearing world, according to Smith.
“In eastern Idaho there really is not (a deaf culture),” Smith said. “We have fully deaf students who have cochlear implants and they don’t consider themselves deaf, they consider themselves hard of hearing … the circle could be bigger but because there is not a big deaf culture here so many of them do not associate with being deaf. They kind of just want to blend in, which isn’t normally the case.”
Whether deaf or hard-of-hearing residents choose blend in or stand out, the state of Idaho has resources. The most popular one, according to Hearing Link, is the FM system. This is used in the classroom and is available statewide in public schools.
“FM systems are wireless assistive hearing devices that enhance the use of hearing aids”, says Hearing Link on their website. “(They) also assist people who are hard of hearing but do not wear hearing aids, in particular over distance and in noisy environments.
Product photography is a great way to expand your editing skills, be an asset to your company, and add more talents for freelance work.
In our photo excursion to Island Park, Idaho, I was able to help the students in the Comm 300 Photography course with their assignments.
It was so much fun helping them enhance their photos! I helped them come up with creative ideas, such as a student walking through the river carrying a lantern with a long shutter speed, splashing water bottles in the river, and spraying water on indoor products.
In the process, I could see my understanding of cameras increase. I am so grateful for this trip!
As part of Caryn Esplin’s photography course, we planned and participated in a fashion photoshoot. I had the privilege to take photos of nine talented female models and six wonderful male models. We covered portraits for men and women, as well as accessory and group photography.
For this assignment, we were instructed to recreate a movie poster. I was determined to make this print something I am extremely proud of.
I decided to follow an 80’s classic – Pretty in Pink. I love the aesthetics of this film! I typically do my projects with blue or purple color schemes, but I wanted to see how well I could do with a color I have never played with before.
Here was my inspiration for this project.
Using a free font named “Blackout” from dafont.com, and a pink paint stroke .png file from pngitem.com, I elevated my design. I went through many drafts to make sure the final product was perfect. Finally, I took my InDesign file back into Photoshop. Here, I added a mask to remove the white backdrop, a halftone effect, and the healing tool. I am so proud of how this turned out!
Click through the slideshow to see my editing process from beginning to end.
For our first photography assignment, I wanted to apply my creativity with the things I already have. In a world saturated with advertisements, media and easy ways to spend money, we can forget to be grateful for the things we already have. For my OSES project, I wanted to apply just that.
For those who don’t know, OSES stands for “Ordinary Spot, Extraordinary Shot”. This means taking your photos in an “ordinary” or boring spot and making them spectacular. With Christmas just last month, I still had some flashing lights I had in mind to use as props. Over the summer, my family and I went to Mexico and collected seashells. With the treasures I already had in my home, plus other knick-knacks, I could make an ordinary spot in my apartment extraordinary.
The editing process was rather simple! I used sliders in Camera Raw, such as temperature, exposure, contrast, highlights, shadows, textures and clarity. I took things a step further into Photoshop by dodging and burning and applying a final “Levels” filter. I also applied “Smart Sharpen” and my watermark.
Juston Wadsworth, affectionately known as the ‘Soupman,’ passed away unexpectedly on December 13, 2022. To celebrate his life, family members gave away his soup to the community.
Juston Wadsworth was born on August 28, 1978. The father of three children and the owner of Rexburg’s very own soup shop, “Soup For You,” Wadsworth positively impacted the sleepy college town of Rexburg, Idaho.
Inside the red brick shop with yellow antique tiling, the ambiance was heavy but full of love. Parents, children, family and college students created a line outside of the door, all for Wadsworth and his house-made soup.
The food options for the little soup shop’s last day of business were: Curried Seafood, Chicken Soup For the Soul, Cheesy Jalapeno and Bacon, Herbed Lentil, New Mexican Corn, and Creamy Tomato Pesto.
“Soup For You” was still filled with the same recognizable plants and collectible art, but this time, a shrine was made in Wadsworth’s name at the center of the store. Rexburg locals gave their condolences and graciously donated funds for Wadsworth’s funeral.
Elevate is a campus-wide competition at BYU-Idaho. Students from different majors get together and present a project to a set of judges. The purpose of the project is to create something that will improve the campus experience. Each semester, Elevate has a different theme. This semester’s question was: How can we achieve unified discipleship amidst, diversity, distance and difference?
As we competed in the Elevate competition, our group discussed the concept of unity and connection. Why are students at BYU-Idaho so disconnected? What makes this university so different than others? My group studied the difference between BYU- Idaho and Ricks College and noticed the biggest difference – the lack of a mascot. We proposed that BYU- Idaho should reintroduce the Viking Mascot digitally. This will increase school spirit and unity among students, all while spending little to no money and providing networking and internship opportunities for students.
Reintroducing the Viking Mascot, known as Thor, can bring new opportunities to students in the form of design practice, internships, and overall student connection. The Viking Mascot can be implemented in BYU-I social media and merchandise, including but not limited to, the University Store. Hashtags can also be used online to increase school spirit.
The skills that I used for this Elevate project were my graphic design and writing skills. I wrote the abstract our group submitted as well as formatting the Google Slideshow. I also made the mockup Viking logo, which took a sufficient amount of time. I spent about 12 hours on this project, according to my tracking journal. I felt that my team was really connected and worked hard. Even though we all had busy schedules, we made our Elevate project great!
During the performance, I presented the slides that went over the logo design process. I talked about how the logo will help the school in three ways: internship opportunities, campus involvement through a student logo competition and new merchandise for the university store, bringing in new income and excitement from students.
In class, we practiced macro photography. This assignment was where I realized there is a lot of potential for a photo in post-production.
In Spring of 2022, I took a course that taught students how to use Adobe Illustrator and create professional vector graphics.
Click on the title of each piece to see my Behance post. There, you can learn the process behind each design.
This article was written for BYU-I’s news organization, Scroll.
From baggy jeans to checkered Vans, skateboarding culture remains similar worldwide. But nestled in the small town of Rexburg, the atmosphere at the skatepark is a little different than normal, thanks to a strong religious influence and college-town atmosphere.
Mason Clark, a junior studying communication, is one student who lives to skate. Clark spends his free time making skateboarding videos and found it to be his passion.
“I love the skate scene in Rexburg because I feel like I am surrounded by a lot of people I go to school with,” Clark said. “I like that because we all have common ground … no matter how old you are or what level of skateboarding you are in, we can all connect.”
Rexburg’s skate culture runs strong, according to Clark.
“There’s definitely a culture at the skatepark, just like any anywhere,” Clark explained. “Everybody is automatically friends.”
Kalani Azabache, a student studying communication, is also a skater in the Rexburg area.
“I love the skate scene in Rexburg because we are all part of the same team despite our differences,” Azabache said. “There are a lot of young high school kids that come skate with us and it’s fun to hang out with them because they are learning.”
Azabache, otherwise known as “the man that falls the most”, loves the encouraging atmosphere at the park.
“Even when I take the gnarliest slams, everyone still motivates and encourages me to get back up,” Azabache said. “When I do land, everyone is super excited. It’s such a fun time to skate in Rexburg, everyone is like your family there.”
However, nothing comes perfect. Clark and Azabache shed some light on improvements that could be made to the Rexburg skatepark.
“I’ll be completely honest, I love the skatepark at Rexburg, but it’s definitely not made by professionals,” Clark said. “There are a lot of cracks everywhere — I feel like it’s made poorly.”
With chipped concrete and awkward placement, the park is not easy to skate.
“I love skating there with all my heart, but there are a couple of things they could get better,” Azabache said. “The transitions of the park are not the best, I wish it had a better flow to it. I feel like it appeals more to … the regular stance. For us goofy footers, we have to adapt to it.”
Despite its cracks and bumpy transitions, the skatepark holds a special place for Rexburg locals and BYU-Idaho college students.
“I still love the park,” Azabache said. “I’ll still skate there whenever I can.”
Click here to see one of Clark’s videos.
As the end of a college career is just within fingertips, nine BYU-Idaho seniors studying communication dedicated a portion of their evening to mentor inquisitive students. Free pizza and drinks were served in the basement room 35 at the Jacob Spori Building on Thursday, June 9.
Here are four things you missed from the communication department’s senior panel that can apply to all majors.
Debroah Ownes said that making lasting and productive relationships with your professors is what will get you far. Owens explained that it is more important to put your differences aside and to receive critiques on your work.
Another senior added that one way she motivates herself is by creating a “to-do” list filled with little accomplishments. When something small gets done, she can build her confidence and work ethic piece by piece.
One senior, who has a video production emphasis, encouraged communication students to put their work online even if they do not feel confident in it. He explained that it is still an additional project that will show your growth, and someone may love your work and even use it.
Victoria shared her experiences with TikTok and the viral videos she received when she just put herself out there. She cautioned that within vulnerability, there is bullying, especially online. However, if we never put ourselves out there, we will never grow.
One senior shared that video production is something that he loves, but he was concerned about finances. After spiritual and academic reflection, he decided that it was better to do what he loves.
That passion has driven him to new and creative outlets. He said that if you continually strive to live the gospel and pay tithing, within the means of Heaven, the Lord will help you achieve the life you desire.
Owens shared to increase your chances of getting a leadership position would be to be a leader when no one is looking. Whether it’s staying after classes to ask questions, helping others with their work, doing the extra project, or developing beneficial relationships with your professors, you need to find ways that set you apart.
Matt elaborated on this concept and encouraged the students to ask themselves, “What sets you apart? What value can you add?”
The seniors collectively agreed that after graduation, people don’t care about the details of your degree – they just care you got one. Although having the physical Diploma is a reward, other factors must set you apart.
Ask yourself: What are your portfolio pieces? How are your people skills? What leadership experiences do you have to offer?
As conversations came to a close and the evening grew darker, the communication seniors left us with some powerful words of advice and shared 3 golden qualities that create a successful individual.
First, someone that produces quality work. When people get to the top or a leadership position, it is usually reflected in their work.
Second, someone that is easy to work with. Other times, people will get to the top because of their charm and charisma.
Finally, someone that manages time efficiently. This means being on time, staying after and going the extra mile.
The seniors clarified that only two are needed to be successful, but all three are what will make you powerful. Communication students were also encouraged to take their time in school in order to produce better portfolio content.
Finally, they shared that it is okay to be selfish, as this is a selfish time in life. Burnette elaborated that as Latter-day Saints, this is an unpopular thought process, however, it is necessary when juggling projects, classes, internships, and the upcoming career world.
This is a column piece written for BYU-I’s news organization, Scroll.
“You’re going to hate it.”
That was the response I got when I told my friends and family that I was transferring from Utah State University to BYU-Idaho.
To give context, I graduated high school in 2019 and went to Utah State that fall. I moved to an apartment complex where I didn’t know anyone, worked at a soda shop and took some general classes — your typical Utah college student.
I loved my experience in Logan. The campus was beautiful, my classes were uplifting and my roommates influenced my life in a positive way. While placed in fortunate circumstances, I continued with an aimless direction in my classes and life.
When the pandemic hit and in-person classes were canceled, I was relieved. I was unsure how to handle the college workload, so even though the world was afraid, I felt a weight off my chest. The lockdown ended up being a period of pristine reflection.
On paper, my life seemed complete, but I felt I wasn’t where I needed to be.
I remember sitting in my kitchen and a thought came to my mind, “You could go to BYU-Idaho.”
That sentence was quiet and vague. Although soundless, those thoughts spanned my mind, and I realized I was at a crossroads: I could stay and live my life in Logan or go on a different course in Rexburg.
After reflecting for a few weeks, one of my friends decided to transfer to BYU-I and asked me to be her roommate. To me, that was the push I needed. I didn’t let the confused responses I received cloud my vision, I just did it. I moved to Rexburg, Idaho, in the fall of 2020.
That first semester wasn’t what I had in my head.
The campus looked completely separate from a contemporary university. The people were different, the town was small and I wondered what I had gotten myself into. On day two of living in Rexburg, I called my family and told them that they were right.
But I decided to stay.
Close to two years later, I am a married woman planning to graduate next fall. Looking back, I realize that Rexburg has given me my entire life. This simple town has given me joy, relationships and lessons that are the most beautiful things I can offer from my life thus far.
Nothing is perfect — Rexburg is cold in the winter, hot in the summer and sometimes feels limiting. However, I let that modest location change my world in a positive way.
I started this process by going outside of my comfort zone. I changed my major, applied to be an editor for the school newspaper and spoke up about what was important to me, even if I was afraid of what others had to say. It was how I met my husband and learned to love who I see in the mirror.
If Rexburg is a difficult place for you, I get it. Despite what you have in mind, I encourage students here at BYU-I to take advantage of the social, academic and spiritual opportunities around them because it is more beautiful than you think.
So why did I choose to come to BYU-I? It was because I wanted to. I felt like it would give me a positive change.
Create direction in your life, even if you are discouraged and unsure. Your time here in Rexburg could create a stunning story for you if let it.
Isabelle Justice 