I belong to a minority within a minority here at BYU: I am an international student and also not LDS. Although I have had a few negative experiences, I would not change my decision to come to this school. There have been numerous instances where I have not felt as much of a cougar, but recently, when I was asked to talk in a class, I realized I am more or as much of a cougar as anybody else.
BYU has given me a lot — from helping me find a full-time position after I graduate to helping me graduate early. I have had tremendous support from faculty and friends. I have cheered on Riley Nelson and wanted to learn how to “Jimmer.” I have been saddened by any loss to the Utes and crazily happy every time we have won. I have eaten one too many J-Dawgs.
I have also attended prayers and family home evenings. I have had defended BYU whenever their has been a controversy (trust me, there have been a couple) and been excited for General Conference. I have also been woken up Sunday mornings by missionaries knocking on my door and have been given the Book of Mormon numerous times. I have prayed at the start of class.
I do believe there are certain things BYU can do to make more international non-mormon students feel welcome. At times kids have issues dating or socially interacting with other people. I was lucky to meet the most amazing people during my three and a half years at BYU, but somebody else might not be that lucky. I have met international students, specifically non-LDS, who have transferred schools.
Maybe its time we helped in making BYU more diverse and acceptable — because non-LDS, international, I still bleed blue.
OMER MALIK
Lahore, Pakistan