Brianna Thomas Saxey
Bachelor of Science, Medical Laboratory Science
Profile
Briefly tell us about yourself (e.g. hometown, family, hobbies, favorite BYU courses, intended profession)
I grew up in Menifee, California and finished high school in Santa Clarita, CA. I always dreamed about attending BYU, and my mom likes to tell people I've been preparing for my college applications since I was 4! I can't say for sure whether or not that is true, but I am glad that whatever 4 year old me was doing got me to this point. My time at BYU has changed me for the better, and I can't imagine spending these last few years any other way.
Who were your greatest supporters while earning this degree?
My husband Matthew has been my greatest support during the last few years of college. He constantly reminds me that as long as I do my best, I am doing enough. Matthew always makes time to listen and encourage me when I feel overwhelmed, and he's helped me find confidence in myself that I never had before.
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen at BYU?
Don't take yourself too seriously! College is hard and, no matter how much your roommates seem to have it all together, everyone is trying to figure things out. Study hard, but also set aside time to make memories and meet new people. At the end of the day you aren't going to remember your test scores, you will remember the things you did and the life lessons you learned. Let your time at BYU be a time of personal growth and self discovery--it may feel like college is the end goal, but it really is just the beginning.
How has your experience at BYU prepared you for the rest of your life?
My time at BYU has taught me that I can do hard things, but more importantly it has taught me that I need other people's support in order to succeed. As I've progressed through school, I've developed friendships with my professors and fellow students which have provided a foundation to fall back on when things get hard. It is so easy for us to get stuck and feel like we have to find our way on our own, but our Heavenly Father is continuously reaching out to help us by placing people in our lives. Refusing help when we know we need it does not make us stronger or better than anyone else, it simply denies God's offer to bless us in a time of need.