We've felt the Spirit of BYU-I in many ways. When our oldest daughter came we watched as she went from a "social butterfly" with little thought of grades to a serious student that loved BYU-I. Thanks to wonderful teachers she became inspired to pursue her degree in English and minor in secondary education. She not only accomplished her goal, but managed to graduate in just 3 yrs. Quite a transformation from a girl who didn't like to open a book!

        Our son then came to BYU-I. He had struggled with his testimony for many years and was for the most part quite difficult! He had difficulty following rules and lacked direction. While on campus one time when both of our children were there, I noticed how so many of the professors would great my daughter by name - very impressive, but not shocking as she was an easy one to like. I then observed that just as many professors were greeting my son (even hugging him!) - that was amazing! The professors at BYU-I truly love their students.

        My son still continued to struggle into his second year and subsequent summer at home. After much prayer and fasting he made the decision to go back to BYU-I the fall of 2005. His main reason was his love of his Bishop at BYU-I. His bishop stood by him and he made it back into BYU-I winter of 2006. Our son LOVED basketball and the intramural teams were what he lived for. To be able to finish class and then play ball was the best!

        His school work improved, his outlook improved and his spirit soared! He was anxiously working on sending in his papers for his mission in December.

        Our next experience with BYU-I was very tender and sweet to us. In the summer of 2006 while attending summer semester our son went "tubing" and drowned. In our sorrow and grief BYU-I was extraordinary. They helped us meet with the boys that were with him, so we might all find comfort together. They cared for our needs as we cleaned his apartment and took care of his affairs. Above this they sent the word out to the student body...we were overwhelmed with the support and love from these students. Students that had known him in his first year and since came to visit us. It was truly beautiful to know that your child was so loved by his peers. The administration (public affairs dept) went above and beyond....they compiled a book of all the students memories and thoughts, found us his jersey, signed a basketball with his current team and much more. We were so touched by their tender care.   We flew up a week later for a memorial on campus that BYU-I arranged and marveled that we could have been so blessed to have had him attending this campus.

        You will never know what peace it has brought to our hearts to know just how much our son was loved by those at BYU-I. From his peers, his professors, his bishop, even his landlord all helped us to feel the spirit of BYU-I.

        We are grateful to have had the opportunity to feel the great spirit the exists here on this campus and look forward to enjoying this experience again with other of our children.