Family

Life is a roller coaster. We have ups and downs. This week has been a downward slope for me, but I know I can keep moving forward. This week I have had to rely on my entire family to keep me strong. They always give me words of encouragement and watch out for me. I know they truly are about me because they know how to make me feel loved and appreciated. When I am not happy, they always find ways to cheer me up. They have been able to work miracles. I know that I am never alone because no matter what I will have five additional people watch over me. Life is definitely hard, but with family it’s enjoyable and manageable. I love these people and they are stuck with me for forever. Without my family, I don’t even know where I would be. Thank you for supporting me and loving me!

David

This coming Wednesday, my best friend will be leaving on his mission to Tacloban, Philippines. I’m guessing he is going to tower over the Filipino people because he is 6’2”.  He is one of the most amazing people that I have ever met. This past year at BYU we have become really good friends, and I am so thankful! He has inspired me to try and be my best every day. He is really smart and nice to everybody. He is amazing at sports (I’m always told by everybody), and he is the most patient person that I know. He has worked really hard to prepare to go on a mission, and I know that he is really excited and ready. It’s really eye opening to see teenage boys leave off into the world to work for a cause that is bigger than them. Missionaries get two of the best years of their lives and I know David will love it. Good luck David! I’ll miss you!

For more information about what missionaries are teaching, go to: lds.org

Sister

I have an awesome little sister. She has lots of energy and is always happy. When I am with her, she always thinks of fun things to do. She is my only sister and we always have each other’s backs. There have been many occasions when our brothers would annoy and bother us. We will team up, and show them who is boss. I’m always doing school work and she is always teaching me that sometimes it’s more important to just relax and have some fun. She loves to go shopping and go to the beach, just like me. We are the exact same size now so we can share clothes and just have fun being girls. We are still really different though. She loves to be around lots of people, while I would like to be around a few. She is the cutest girl I know and I am glad I call her my sister.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

I have grown up my entire life in the LDS culture. I am very grateful for everything that the church has provided me with. There have been many times in my life where I know the gospel has protected and guided me. There have been many occasions where I didn’t know what the next step was. I was never planning on going to BYU, but I prayed about it and I was given full tuition and the rest of my scholarships covered everything else. The people of the church are truly inspirational people. Everybody is one big family. Whenever somebody needs a blessing, help with work, or somebody to talk to, the members of the church are always willing to go out of their way to help that person. The Church of Jesus Christ is full of inspirational people that are changing the world every single day with the help of the gospel. 

For more information about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints   http://www.lds.org/?lang=eng

Professors

School has always been an important part of my life. I remember being so excited when I got accepted into BYU. I have had amazing professors this past year. All of them were so good about letting me meet with them to go over topics and to prepare for exams. My top three professors from my first two semesters are Professor Cassy Budd, Sister Diona Wilson, and Skyler Simmons. Professor Cassy Budd worked with me all the time to help me understand accounting. I really enjoy accounting and I believe that Professor Budd made me love it more. Sister Wilson was my public speaking professor, and she always had great insights on public speaking and her personal experience. Skyler Simmons is a graduate student, and he was very giving of his time. He had a lot of students to teach but was always willing to explain business math. All of these people are awesome professors and they have inspired me as a student.

BYU You Tube Video

Mommy

Everything that I have learned can be traced back to my mother. She has been at my side since day 1, or even before then. Whenever I need help, or just need somebody to talk to, she is always there for me. Whatever projects I sign myself up for, she is there to support and help me reach the final goal. She attended all of my swim meets throughout my swim career. She was at every dance recital behind the scenes to make sure I was ready to perform. She was with me every step of the way when I was getting my Associates Degree in high school.  She is now watching me take every step to achieve my dreams of being in the Marriott School. As I have grown older I do more and more by myself, but she is always a phone call away. When I am feeling discouraged or upset she will always tell me how the situation really is. She helps me see a better side to the situation.  I love my mom, and she has been an inspiring person in my life since the beginning.

Friends

The most amazing people in the world!! (From left: Khrystalle, Talan, Ryan, Kristen, Me, David, Ryan, Isaac Front: Gavin, Mitchell)

Finals week at BYU was very VERY difficult for me. The past year was my first year at BYU, and I am in the process of applying to BYU’s Business School. The Marriott School is extremely competitive. Like everybody else, I was very stressed out and worried about a lot of things. My friends were my saving grace during this final week of winter semester. They helped me stay calm and reminded me to have faith. I received messages of encouragement and love. My best friend gave me a blessing. Food was brought over to me in the library. Prayers were said for me. When I was crying about being nervous, they comforted me. Without my amazing friends I don't know how else I would have accomplished everything. All of my friends inspired me to do my best, and to keep my head high because everything would be okay. God puts people in our paths to learn from and to appreciate. I love each and every one of them for helping me reach my full potential.