My observations about the LDS Church and BYU, and how it affects the lives of its Students

Last week, I wrote a paper for my class "Intro to LDS Church" describing my experience at BYU. I thought it would be something interesting to post on the blog...

As a Muslim student at BYU, I believe my experiences over the past couple of months have taught me a lot about Mormons and their peculiar culture. This university has helped me mature and take responsibilities in a way that I had never imagined. During my time at BYU, I have discovered that not only does this institute excel in academic excellence, but also emphasizes on high morals which bring out the best out its students while educating them on the essential concepts of world disciplines, and also keeping them closer to their religious beliefs.

A year ago, when I first learnt about Brigham Young University and decided to apply here as an undergrad, I had absolutely no idea about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The only time I had heard of the term “Mormon” was in a TV show called F.R.I.E.N.D.S, when one of the characters, Rachel, is asked if she would like an alcoholic drink and she declines. The person assumes that she must be a Mormon. Even then, I didn’t pay any attention to the term, or what it meant.

The Church’s name mentioned on the BYU website caught my eye. I looked it up on Wikipedia to learn a little about its origin & history, basic doctrinal beliefs, teaching practices, organization & structure, and culture. The preliminary information turned out to be really resourceful in giving me a clearer picture of the LDS faith. I kept reading more and more about BYU and Mormonism. I was impressed by the reputation of the Marriott Business School and its Accounting program; the tuition cost almost seemed unbelievable, and the emphasis on high morals identical to the morals of my own religion seemed ideal. The college seemed to be my perfect match. Upon my acceptance, I was also offered a generous scholarship out of the Church tithing. By summer break, BYU was what I was most looking forward to in the coming years of my life. Not until had I arrived here, did I learnt so much more in such detail about the peculiar culture of BYU.

My first impression of Mormons, as truly-devoted Christians made me respect them a lot. They way everyone implemented Gospel principles in their lives made me reflect on my own religious beliefs. I became enthusiastic to learn more about their religious beliefs and practices, and often I would compare it to my own. I really appreciate how BYU’s unique lifestyle harnesses the best out of its students by encouraging service and dedication. The university mission statement accurately outlines this in the words, “The mission of BYU is to assist individuals in their quest for perfection and eternal life.” The Church Missionary Program is excellent as it gets young individuals to go out and spread the message of the Gospel while reflecting on their own lives and hence preparing them for eternal perfection. It amazes me how this tradition strengthens the testimony of thousands, making them stronger believers. The Church also has an efficient organization. Daily scripture reading, three hours of Sunday Church and Ward Prayer, Monday Family Home Evening and occasional visits to the temple create a constant sense of commitment among Mormons, constantly reminding them to stay on the righteous path. Becoming a part of BYU, I enjoy taking part in these religious activities as I get to meet so many interesting people, and learn so much about Mormonism.

I wish all religions of the world were just as crucial about education as Mormonism is. The example of Church leaders like Brigham Young, Gordon B. Hinckley, and Joseph F. Smith has inspired millions in the quest of attaining knowledge. Back In the difficult days, right after migration to Utah, Mormons were living from hand to mouth but still, Brigham Young was persistent that some sort of educational system could be set up, and hence The Church decided to establish “stake academies.” The Church Education System ensures that the youth is educated not only with religious principles but all sorts of disciplines. The vast variety of majors and minors, and the broadly outlined University Core programs in BYU are evident of this fact. As a consequence, students at BYU are far better prepared for all sorts of situations.

The friendliness that BYU caters is exceptional; it has always made me feel at home. Even though Mormons have a deep commitment to their religion, yet I’ve never met anyone on campus so far who would be intolerant of my religious beliefs, instead they all have admired me for being dedicated to my religion. I really appreciate how respectful my roommates, friends, class fellows, and professors have been of my religious beliefs and practices, especially in today’s world, where Muslims are looked upon as fundamentalists and religious extremists. In one of my Family Home Evening activities, I gave a brief outline of Islamic facts, history, beliefs and practices. It fascinated me to see everyone so enthusiastic about the topic and their eagerness to learn more. I believe that if people of all religions could come together and start respecting each other just like that, we would stop having conflicts.

I admire Church leaders for their emphasis on “presenting yourself.” The LDS Church sets down a complete way of life with a healthy, presentable outlook for its members. The Church strongly prohibits any immoral acts like drinking, smoking, fornication or others which are widely disregarded in all societies and religious. This has created a very positive image of Mormons around the world. The honor code set in place at BYU works remarkably well to ensure adherence to these principles. One of the most positive outcomes of this honor code has been the general belief that BYU students have better work ethics than students of other universities, which is indeed true. Therefore, employers from around the world come to BYU campus every year to recruit students so they can go forth and contribute to the workplace.

Even though BYU maintains an ideal lifestyle, the one thing that makes me, and many non-Mormons uncomfortable about the Mormon culture and the atmosphere at BYU is the eagerness everyone has to get married. I appreciate the keenness towards fulfilling the most important religious obligation, but to an outsider, it just seems really odd. Another thing that stands out about most Mormons is that a lot of them belong to big families, and hence, plan on having big families themselves. This is a peculiar culture that is unlike in any other college or university in the entire United States.

In conclusion, BYU is an excellent institute with a great reputation, and its students have a strong commitment to high moral values and religious beliefs. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is one of the most organized religions on the planet that ensures its members are educated not only with religious doctrine, but also the essentials of all worldly disciplines and continue to lead a righteous life in the light of Gospel principles while going out to serve others.