Bailee Atkins, a senior at Brigham Young University–Hawaii majoring in social work, described on Apr. 22 how her experiences at the university have shaped her personal growth, faith, and professional development.
Atkins said her time at BYU–Hawaii has been transformative both academically and spiritually. She explained that growing up with the Gospel of Jesus Christ was a significant influence in her life: “I have had the privilege of growing up with the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a heavy influence in my life.” Her participation in seminary during high school taught her that questions about faith should encourage deeper study and prayer.
She shared that it was not until attending BYU–Hawaii that she fully understood conversion. “At the time I was taking Jesus Christ and the Everlasting Gospel with Sister Marcum, where I had the opportunity to learn and analyze The Living Christ,” Atkins said. Through study and prayer during this period, she developed a stronger love for the gospel.
Academically, Atkins credited faculty members in the social work program for helping her grow personally and professionally. “Every moment, every class, and every lesson was taught in love and assurance that this field is where I belonged,” she shared. She also highlighted how minors in psychology and music contributed to her understanding of different populations as well as building confidence outside her comfort zone.
Currently interning with Utah Foster Care in Murray, Atkins supports foster families by providing retention services such as care communities designed to assist foster parents’ needs. She noted meeting leaders from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during this internship further expanded her professional experience. “Being able to see the direct impact of support and advocacy has been one of the most meaningful parts of my internship,” Atkins said.
Reflecting on her time at BYU–Hawaii overall, Atkins emphasized its impact on strengthening both discipleship and empathy: “Through service, classes, and relationships with others I have learned how Christlike attributes such as compassion, patience, and love can guide the way we treat people.” She added that interacting with students from diverse backgrounds deepened her humility toward others.
Looking ahead to graduation, Atkins concluded: “BYU–Hawaii has helped me see how my faith and my future profession can work together in serving others.”
