Learn why students are calling it their favorite part of BYU-Pathway
No doubt about it, gatherings are key to student success! So what should you expect in your first gathering? Here are some things you can look forward to.
Getting to know your missionaries
There are thousands of service missionaries assigned to BYU-Pathway! Each has a unique story of how they got there, but they all have the same reason for wanting to stay: the students. Missionaries facilitate weekly gatherings, support students, and encourage others to join BYU-Pathway.
In your first gathering, you’ll get to know your assigned service missionaries. They’ll lead the discussion the first time then assign you to lead the discussion another day to strengthen your leadership skills! You’ll also get to know the other students in your gathering group and what you’re hoping to achieve by furthering your education.
Connecting with your gathering group
It can be a little intimidating to meet new people, but you already have a lot in common with the other students in your gathering. Most gatherings include students from the same local area. They all have a unique path to BYU-Pathway, but they’re all there to strengthen their faith and self-reliance.
In your gathering and online courses, strive to help and connect with your classmates. Ask questions about their hopes and goals for education. Don’t be afraid to share a little about yourself too!
Scott Duncan, a student from Arizona, USA, said of the gathering, “It’s an opportunity and blessing to lift and to strengthen not only ourselves but also each other.”
Participating in the discussion
You have unique experiences and valuable insights to contribute to the gathering discussion! Each student will have an opportunity to be the lead student — facilitating the discussion and covering the weekly material. Whether you’re a leader or participant of the discussion, be ready to learn something new.
If you have questions, now is a great time to ask! Other students are probably wondering the same things you are, and you’ll learn together. So much of your growth during your education will come from learning with others.
Kameron Lemon, a now graduate in Idaho, USA, said of her gathering experience, “You learn so much more when you have to teach other people. When we’d go and be together as a group and teach each other things we got out of the lessons, I felt fulfilled. I felt like I accomplished something because I helped them learn but I also learned a lot more myself.”