#byugrad

Three years ago, I had just been refused re-admission to Brigham Young University (BYU), but I was determined to return and finish what I had started more than a decade earlier. My wife and I were in the process of selling our home, much of our belongings, and my truck, in preparation for moving to Utah. Despite my determination, I don’t think I ever considered being where I am now.

I was always fixed on the next step; just get into BYU and take one class after another. The thought of graduation did propel me, but I never really considered how I’d feel or what I’d do once I graduated.

In fact, I was so caught up in the immediate experience, that I often lost sight of the bigger picture. There were times I was lonely and disheartened as a thirty-something family man among students nearly half my age. They could spend more time in the lab, exert themselves more, and they were often smarter than me. It was definitely humbling.

I started out pursuing my computer science degree due to the future job and salary prospects. However, I found out along the way I really enjoy programming. My creativity drew me to the animation emphasis program, and I was blessed to have been accepted. Again, though, I was humbled by the heights of passion and talent of those I worked with. It’s a miracle what the animation students at BYU are accomplishing. Having witnessed it firsthand, that’s the only explanation I have for what they do.

I’ve been working year-round for the last 2-1/2 years, both because I’m not getting any younger, and because this is a difficult lifestyle for my family. They’re ready to move on. I think I am too, but there’s so much I’m going to miss. BYU is a special place. I’m sad I won’t be able to feel the spirit there on a regular basis. I was moved intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually almost daily. I love BYU. After abandoning my degree as a newly-wed, I was secretly upset that I wouldn’t be able to call myself an alumni of BYU. Being connected to it now is priceless. These last few years have been amazing. BYU will always be a part of me.