Dear New Students:
I am pleased to welcome you to Brigham Young University. You are about to embark upon a journey where your spiritual and secular learning will be interwoven with personal growth and development.
When you enter BYU, you will see a sign that states “Enter to learn, go forth to serve.” Over the coming years, you will refine your divine gifts and capabilities in your chosen field of study. These discoveries will serve you, your family and your community throughout your life.
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I encourage you to make the most of your experience. Immerse yourself in what takes place at Brigham Young University. Take part in the New Student Orientation activities, learning all you can about BYU’s rich heritage and vast opportunities. Make new friends; our students come from all 50 states and more than 120 countries. Prepare yourself mentally and spiritually for demanding, yet exhilarating course work. Commit yourself to living fully BYU’s Honor Code, knowing that it reflects your personal integrity and our foundation in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Be sure to become involved in your student ward or local congregation and make the time and effort to attend campus Devotionals and Forum assemblies.
Finally, and importantly, study BYU’s mission statement and the “Aims of a BYU Education” (aims.byu.edu), incorporating these guidelines into your own individual educational quest. In the “AIMS of a BYU Education,” we read that “BYU seeks to develop students of faith, intellect and character who have the skills and the desire to continue learning and to serve others throughout their lives.” As your president, I am committed to upholding this charge — one I view as an inspired vision that will lead you and this university to even greater heights.
Together, with the faculty and staff, we will accomplish Brigham Young’s desire to see this institution not only affect the course of higher education but also the world in which we live. Welcome aboard and enjoy the journey.
Sincerely yours,
Cecil O. Samuelson
