Brigham Young University Education Week is an annual event that offers a wide range of classes curated for various audiences, from parents to seniors to general learners. This year, the program included classes specifically tailored for young single adults and those who care about them. Two notable instructors, Bruce Chang and Stephen K. Hunsaker, taught classes that addressed important topics such as helping returned missionaries adjust to coming home, navigating the dating world, and making critical life decisions.
Bruce Chang, a director for Seminaries and Institutes of Religion, taught a class titled “Rescuing Our Young Single Adults in the Latter Days.” In this class, Chang emphasized the importance of providing purpose for returned missionaries as they transition back to regular life. He highlighted the need for young single adults to find new missions from Heavenly Father, such as becoming temple recommend holders and engaging in scripture study. Chang also cautioned against over-scheduling and encouraged individuals to take time for prayer and reflection. He stressed the importance of avoiding performance-based questions when discussing missions and instead focusing on meaningful experiences and Christlike attributes.
In another class, Chang discussed the significance of involving Jesus Christ in every aspect of young single adults’ lives, especially when making important decisions. He encouraged individuals to turn to the prophets for guidance and emphasized the importance of being actively involved in the lives of young single adults. Chang also touched on the idea of deceased loved ones providing help and support from beyond the veil, reminding participants that they are not alone in their journey.
Stephen K. Hunsaker, a Seminaries and Institutes of Religion instructor, taught a class on “YSA Survival 101: Navigating the Dating World.” In his classes, Hunsaker focused on the concept of change through Jesus Christ. He discussed how individuals’ beliefs are shaped by their experiences and how negative experiences can lead to unhealthy beliefs and behaviors. Hunsaker emphasized the need for individuals to identify and change unhealthy beliefs, with the help of the Savior, who can bring about lasting change. He shared examples of broken hearts and spiritual struggles he had witnessed in his time as a teacher, highlighting the transformative power of the Savior in freeing individuals from pain and giving them hope and courage.
Brigham Young University Education Week has been a longstanding tradition since 1922, offering a diverse array of classes to strengthen individuals’ testimonies of the gospel of Jesus Christ and contribute to their overall development. This year’s theme, “Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,” reflects the program’s focus on spiritual growth and personal development. With hundreds of presenters teaching over 1,000 classes, Education Week provides a unique opportunity for individuals to deepen their faith, connect with others, and learn from experienced instructors.
In conclusion, Brigham Young University Education Week offers a valuable platform for individuals to engage with important topics, strengthen their testimonies, and connect with like-minded individuals. The classes curated for young single adults provide practical advice, spiritual guidance, and opportunities for personal growth. By addressing key issues such as adjusting to life after a mission, navigating relationships, and making critical decisions, Education Week equips participants with the tools they need to thrive spiritually and emotionally.
