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99+1: BYU-Pathway Students Search for “the One”

After 100 years, learn what has never changed

President Nelson of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Ever wondered what the world looked like 100 years ago?

Consider the changes President Russell M. Nelson, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has seen over the past 100 years. Yet, amidst all these changes, one thing has remained the same: Heavenly Father’s love for His children and His commandment to love one another.

For his 100th birthday today, President Nelson invited us to do as the scriptures say and find “the one.” 1 Here at BYU-Pathway Worldwide, students have done their best to follow his invitation.
Sometimes, it only takes one person believing in you to spark a feeling of love and belonging.
Elikem Edem, Ghana

Gee Bee Corio, a BYU-Pathway student from the Philippines
Gee Bee Corio (right) from the Philippines

Gee Bee Corio, Philippines

During a group project, Gee Bee (right) missed some important deadlines due to his busy work schedule. One of his classmates regularly reminded him about assignments, helping Gee Bee progress in the class and feel loved and supported.

“[My classmate's] dedication and patience in guiding me through the project made a significant difference,” Gee Bee said. “These interactions have not only fostered unity but also strengthened my relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Dayana Holguín, Colombia

Dayana Holguín, a BYU-Pathway student from Colombia
Dayana Holguín from Colombia

While Dayana was preparing to be the lead student in her gathering, she experienced many challenges with her laptop and internet. She eventually solved the issue but still felt overwhelmed and defeated. Her service missionaries encouraged and comforted her.

She said, “The service missionaries in my gathering showed so much gratitude, patience, love, and support, so I could feel I was loved as ‘the one,’ which helped me feel the love of my Savior.”

Linda Rodriguez, Wisconsin, USA

Linda Rodriguez, a BYU-Pathway service missionary
Linda Rodriguez from Wisconsin, USA

As both a service missionary and BYU-Pathway student, Linda noticed a woman struggling with her coursework and isolating herself from the class. Linda reached out and encouraged her classmate to continue pushing forward. As they studied together, Linda recognized changes in herself too.

“I am not the same person who entered PathwayConnect,” she said, “and the changes have been ongoing as I have worked through my courses.”

Elikem Edem, Ghana

BYU-Pathway student Elikem Edem from Ghana
Elikem Edem from Ghana

When Elikem first transferred to BYU-Pathway, he felt isolated and overwhelmed. In one group study, he struggled to understand what was being taught. Sensing Elikem’s frustration, another student offered to help and invited Elikem to share his thoughts on what they were learning.

“In that moment, he didn’t see just a struggling student; he saw me,” Elikem said. “His genuine friendship reminded me that I wasn’t alone in my journey. Sometimes, it only takes one person believing in you to spark a feeling of love and belonging.”

Julia Alyohina, Russia

BYU-Pathway student Julia Alyohina
Julia Alyohina from Russia

Before BYU-Pathway, Julia was not active in the Church of Jesus Christ. As she started classes, however, she grew to love the spiritual conversations and the warm feeling of the Spirit she felt. Because of the examples of her peers and instructors, she wanted to turn her life around and started attending church again.

“[BYU-Pathway] helped me set my priorities straight and return spiritually,” she said.

Vincent Chimtengo, Malawi

BYU-Pathway student Vincent Chimtengo
Vincent Chimtengo from Malawi

Like many BYU-Pathway students, Vincent juggles coursework with personal challenges. Recognizing he was struggling, his instructor asked how he was doing, shared her own difficulties while studying, and even offered extra tutoring sessions.

“It was a simple gesture, but it meant a lot,” Vincent said. “That experience left a lasting impact on my journey at BYU-Pathway and inspired me to be more attentive and supportive of my peers in return.”

The lost sheep

Each soul is precious in the eyes of God. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we have a charge to reach out to find His lost sheep. President Nelson taught in his invitation, as we reach out to “the one,” we can spread the love of the Savior throughout the world. 2
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See Russell M. Nelson’s Facebook page, post from June 1, 2024, facebook.com/russell.m.nelson/posts/
The Lord said, “Verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that [lost] sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.” 3