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Character

BYU seeks to develop students of faith, intellect, and character. The true value of an education should be measured by who we become, not just how much we know. Etched in stone at the western entrance to campus are the words, “Enter to learn; go forth to serve.” Here are stories of people who make a difference in a world we wish to improve. 

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BYU grad invigorates her experience with service, diverse classes and teaching

April 21, 2025
Phia James grew up in Salt Lake City and graduated from high school during the COVID pandemic. As the time to decide on which college to attend got closer, she increasingly felt that BYU was the right place for her.
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‘I can do this’: 2025 commencement student speaker builds impressive portfolio through service

April 20, 2025
At BYU’s commencement exercises, journalism student Amy Ortiz will represent the graduates as the student speaker. This profile celebrates her BYU experience and how God has magnified her to bless the lives of others.
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BYU graduate’s journey blends animation, research and family

April 17, 2025
Mia McGuire partnered with a BYU professor to create an app that promotes social media safety for autistic users.
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Alex Keogh: A peacemaker’s guide to conflict

April 16, 2025
Peace begins with understanding.
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BYU student gives back through science and service

April 15, 2025
Israel Davila Aleman always dreamed of becoming a professional soccer player. As an immigrant from Peru, his passion for the game went beyond a hobby — he considered it a core part of his identity. However, when Davila enrolled at BYU, he discovered a new dream: the chance to make a difference in the lives of immigrants like himself and his family.
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Jake Loutensock: Living the Healer's art beyond the classroom

April 14, 2025
How a graduating student's education and experiences in the BYU Nursing program prepared him to be "in the right place at the right time."
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‘I was that kid’: How one BYU graduate is giving back

April 14, 2025
Growing up in poverty, Nay Robinson never saw herself as a college student. Now, as a BYU graduate, she’s on a mission to open doors for the next generation.
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Cougar Query: Teresa Bell

March 31, 2025
Cougar Queries is a series profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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Two students at the heart of BYU's Fiesta, Luau feel joy in sharing their unique heritage, traditions and stories

December 04, 2024
'I learned I need to love the participants and see them as Christ would'
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BYU students ‘go forth to serve’ in their own communities

October 17, 2024
The adage “Enter to learn, go forth to serve” is a slogan many BYU students are familiar with. The calling inspires students and graduates to use their education to make a meaningful impact in the world.
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Cougar Query: Shima Baughman

September 30, 2024
Cougar Queries is a series profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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Tailgate with a purpose: BYU tailgates continue to feature service projects at road football games

August 14, 2024
The tradition continues in 2024 for the third year, as local alumni chapters have organized “Cougs Care” pregame tailgates featuring service projects for local nonprofits, beginning with the game at SMU on September 6.
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Cougar Query: Daron Billeter

August 05, 2024
Cougar Queries is a series of profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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Cougar Query: Kim Clark

July 29, 2024
Cougar Queries is a series of profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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Cougar Query: Rick Gill

July 08, 2024
Cougar Queries is a series of profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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Cougar Query: Ellen Knell

July 01, 2024
Cougar Queries is a series of profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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Cougar Query: Brad Owens

June 10, 2024
Cougar Queries is a series profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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Cougar Query: Ali Crandall

June 03, 2024
Cougar Queries is a series profiling BYU employees by asking them questions about their work, interests and life.
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