Where are you from?
- posted: 16 Oct. 2007
- scrolllifestyle@byui.edu
Dyed blond hair teased into a high tower, heavy makeup and a bright, white smile. He asks, “Where are ya from?” but knows the answer before it slips from her mouth — Utah.
Students are often guilty of stereotyping others, especially groups like Utah Mormons, which frustrates those associated with the state.
“People always say, ‘Psh…you’re from Utah?’ in a sarcastic, annoyed tone [upon introduction],” said Rachel Farr, a sophomore from Bountiful, Utah, studying health science.
Some bad feelings associated with Utahans stem from preconceived notions of their growing up in either a sheltered lifestyle where everyone in the school is Mormon or a life of rebellion.
On the other hand, some students stereotypically picture Utahans as having flawless faith and knowing everything there is to know about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
“[Utah Mormons] have high expectations [from] everyone. I just think of perfection, or trying to be the top of the line,” said Brianna Bailey, a freshman studying art.
Bailey feels that stereotypes associated with Utah Mormons do not have complete validity, but do originate in truth. She said that people often use extremes found in a culture to inaccurately define a society.
The sheer amount of Mormons living in Utah often leads to false stereotyping.
“We’re surrounded by people of faith so some think we have it easier. They also think we haven’t experienced life as much,” said Nate Slaughter, a sophomore from Orem, Utah, studying recreational leadership.
Farr, frustrated with misconceptions about the Utahan identity, hopes that people will stop judging her and others from her state.
“People should get to know me for who I am, not where I’m from,” Farr said. 
