Instead of waiting for fall semester to begin college life, some BYU freshmen choose to get a head start by enrolling in summer term.
Many incoming students use summer term to ease into college with a quieter, more intimate introduction to BYU. They benefit from smaller class sizes, less crowded housing and more personal time with professors, which helps them adjust socially, academically and emotionally before fall semester begins.
BYU freshman Emily Jackson, from Orange County, California, saw summer term as the perfect way to jump into college life and make early connections.
“It’s been so fun meeting people from all over the place," Jackson said. "I’ve never really been surrounded by so many people who share my values.”
By starting early, freshmen build friendships faster and feel more confident heading into the busier fall semester. Students say it’s easier to connect with others during summer because everyone arrives at the same time, all navigating the same new experience together.
Many students also take advantage of summer term to earn credits before leaving on 18- to 24-month missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Lizzy Arrhenius, a freshman from Gilbert, Arizona, plans to leave on a mission in January and enrolled in summer term to make the most of her time before then.
“I have a lot of free time (before my mission), so I decided to get some credits in before I leave," Arrhenius said. "The social aspect and the freedom have been the best parts.”
Jackson and Arrhenius both said summer term helped them feel more comfortable on campus and prepared them for the upcoming semester.
“I think I’ll be more prepared for fall because I’ve learned how to use my time wisely and manage everything on my own,” Jackson said.
The summer term environment creates strong friendships among students. With fewer people in the dorms, freshmen tend to form tight friend groups and support systems.
Even though starting college can feel intimidating, students said knowing they already have friends gives them more confidence going into fall.
Summer term also gives students more opportunities for one-on-one interactions with professors. Jackson said getting to know her professors better has helped her feel more engaged in class.
“I can tell they love their jobs and love the students,” said Jackson.
When asked what advice they’d give to freshmen starting in the fall, both Jackson and Arrhenius encouraged students to be proactive.
“Go to everything! That’s where you’ll meet people,” Jackson said.
Arrhenius said resources around campus are useful tools for figuring everything out.
“Use the resources here. They’re super helpful and actually make a difference,” Arrhenius said.
After just a few weeks on campus, both students said BYU already feels like home.
“I love it at BYU and I think everyone should come here. This is the best place to spend your college years,” Jackson said.