BYU-Idaho/Web-Content huggingface dataset:
Frequently Asked Questions  - Freshman Focus |BYU-Idaho

# Freshman Focus FAQs

## FAQ's about BYU-Idaho's Freshman Focus Area Program

Freshman focus areas are exploratory majors. When you sign up for a freshman focus area, your declared major is called Freshman Focus. The Freshman Focus Area program lasts for two semesters.

A list of recommended classes will be provided to you. Your class schedule will include five or six courses that equal 12 credits for each semester. It is recommended that you take 30 credits during your first year at BYU-Idaho. Most students take 12 credits during each on-track semester and six more credits during a flex semester. We will help you plan your schedule to fulfill the coursework requirements.

Many of the classes in the Freshman Focus Area program will count as required courses for your new major or General Education requirements. Other courses may count as electives. You may choose not to enroll in a recommended course if you have already taken the class or are not interested in taking it.

During the first two semesters of the Freshman Focus Area Program: 
 
****First Semester**** 

- We will recommend classes that you will register for yourself.
- You will have access to career exploration advisors to help you explore possible careers and majors.
- Take the GS 100: Career and Self Discovery course to help you explore your talents, find your purpose, and choose a career.

****Second Semester**** 

- We will recommend additional courses for your second semester.
- Get help officially declaring your new major.

The purpose of the Freshman Focus Area program is to help you discover the field of study that's right for you. Students are not obligated to finish both semesters of the program. Once the Freshman Area Focus Program completed, you will need to declare an official major of your choice. You can change your major at any time. Choose the major that's right for you, even if it's a part of a different focus area.

Complete our interest form or email freshmanfocus@byui.edu.
Undecided Emphasis | Freshman Focus | BYU-Idaho - Freshman Focus |BYU-Idaho

# Undecided Emphasis Focus Area Focus Area

Majors, Possible Careers, and the Course List for the Undecided Emphasis Focus Area

About the Undecided Emphasis Focus Area

Know you need to be at college but have no idea what to study? Want to explore how different areas tie together and relate to each other? 
 
Take the Undecided Emphasis Focus Area to develop skills in interdisciplinary thinking. Learn about potential areas of interest across the spectrum of the university.Discover how your skills can be used to bless others and yourself.

## Course Requirements

Semester One (12 Total Credits)

Complete all of the following 

- Take the following: 
 - BYUI101 - Experience BYU-Idaho (1)
- Take the following: 
 - BYUI155 - Thriving in a Complex World (3) ******(This course will not be available until Fall 2026)******
- Take 1 of the following: 
 - REL200C - The Eternal Family (2)
 - REL225C - Foundations of the Restoration (2)
 - REL250C - Jesus Christ and His Everlasting Gospel (2)
 - REL275C - The Teachings and Doctrine of the Book of Mormon (2)
- Take 1 of the following: 
 - MATH108X - Math for the Real World (3)
 - ENG150 - Writing and Reasoning Foundations (3)
- Take at least 3 credits from any eligible University credits.

Semester Two (12 Total Credits)

Complete all of the following 

- Take 1 of the following: 
 - REL200C - The Eternal Family (2)
 - REL225C - Foundations of the Restoration (2)
 - REL250C - Jesus Christ and His Everlasting Gospel (2)
 - REL275C - The Teachings and Doctrine of the Book of Mormon (2)
- Take 1 of the following: 
 - MATH108X - Math for the Real World (3)
 - ENG150 - Writing and Reasoning Foundations (3)
- Take at least 7credits from any eligible university credit.
First Year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# First Year Experience

## Your BYU‑Idaho Journey Begins Now

To help you get acquainted with your new surroundings at BYU-Idaho, follow the step-by-step guide for success.

## Step-by-Step Guide for Success

Step 1

Complete Pre-Campus Orientation

Before arriving, all students must complete Pre-Campus Orientation to learn about student life, academics, wellness, and safety.

Pre-Campus Orientation

Step 2

Connect with your Pre-Arrival Team

**Get support before you arrive! Your Pre-Arrival Team can answer questions, ease concerns, and help you prepare for college life.**

Pre-Arrival Team

Step 3

Attend New Student Orientation

NSO helps you navigate campus, connect with resources, and start strong. Attendance is expected for all new students.

New Student Orientation

Step 4

Meet Your New Student Mentor

In your first semester, a mentor will guide you through academics, social life, and spiritual growth, and help you adjust to being a student.

New Student Mentoring

Step 5

Take BYUI 101: Experience BYU-Idaho

This required course introduces you to campus resources, mentoring, and skills that build a strong foundation for success.

BYUI 101

## First Year Resources

Student Guide

The student guide is a one-stop reference site for BYU-Idaho students to help them quickly access campus resources and services.

Get Involved

Connect with a Mentor

Jump ahead by meeting with your mentor. Mentors are successful students with helpful tips for how to make the most of your time at BYU-Idaho.

Get Involved

Academic Success & Tutoring

All you have to do is ask. Your experience at BYU-Idaho will. be better because you stepped in for a visit.

Get Involved

Student Activities

Enhance your BYU-Idaho experience by getting involved in campus organizations and activities.

Get Involved

What Tech Do I Need?

Learn how to print on campus, install free Microsoft Office programs, connect to campus Wi-Fi, use the myBYUI Mobile App, and more!

Get Involved

Register for Classes

Whether you're new to registering for classes at BYU-Idaho, or need a reminder of how it works, we can walk you through the process.

Get Involved

## Download the myBYUI App

The myBYUl app is an all-inclusive university portal that provides personalized resources and content for students, parents, and employees of BYU-Idaho.

Access critical messages, class schedules, academic deadlines, registration, I-Learn, email, I-Card details, important campus announcements and so much more.

Download on the App Store

Download on Google Play
BYUI 101 | First Year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# BYUI 101 Course: Experience BYU-Idaho

## What is BYUI 101?

BYUI 101 is a fun, engaging introduction to BYU-Idaho that all students must register for during their first semester. 
 
It's a 1-credit course with times available to fit your schedule. And we've designed it specifically to support first-semester students.

## Here's What To Look Forward To

Make Friends and Have Fun

From your first day, you'll be part of a small group of other first-semester students. Each group is led by an experienced student mentor excited to help you feel at home.

Connect to Campus Resources

You'll get the inside scoop on where to go and who to talk to when you need help. 
 
We have resources for every need--personally, academically, professionally--and BYUI 101 will connect you to them all.

Gain Skills to Succeed in College

You'll learn essential skills that will help you be successful at BYU-Idaho.

Connect to BYU-Idaho's Mission

Most importantly, BYUI 101 helps you understand the heart of BYU-Idaho's mission: becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ. 
 
Through this course, you'll build a foundation for lifelong learning and discipleship.

Questions About the BYUI 101 Course

Contact the Mentoring Hub if you have any questions about the course or campus resources. 
 
****Mentoring Hub**** 
MC 125/127 
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm 
(208) 496-1441 
peermentoring@byui.edu
Mentoring | First-year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# Mentoring

Pre-Arrival Mentoring

All students who accept their offer will be contacted by a Pre-Arrival Mentor prior to their start date at BYU-Idaho. 
 
A Pre-Arrival Mentor will continue to contact you as needed and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Get Involved

New Student Mentoring

First-Year Mentoring is a key part of a university-wide initiative to strengthen undergraduate education at BYU-Idaho. 
 
It provides all admitted First-Year students the opportunity for valuable peer mentor support.

Get Involved
New Student Mentoring | First Year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# New Student Mentoring

## Find Your Place on Campus

New Student Mentors are experienced students who bring the excitement of college life to you. You will be assigned a New Student Mentor as part of New Student Orientation. 
 
As an integral part of the BYUI 101 course, they help you adjust to college by sharing fresh insights on transitioning into a new environment and thriving at BYU‑Idaho.

> "God does notice us, and He watches over us. But it is usually through another person that He meets our needs."

President Spencer W. Kimball

## Students Helping Students Thrive from Day One

Each year, around 150 New Student Mentors--representing most majors on campus--welcome over 7,000 new students to BYU-Idaho.

Your Campus Connection

New Student Mentors are your go-to guides for navigating college life. They'll help you connect with fellow students, get involved in activities, and explore the many support services available on campus.

Feel at Home, Fast

With a mentor by your side, you won't just find your way--you'll find your place. Their support helps you build real connections and feel like you belong from day one.
Parents | First Year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# Parents, Welcome to BYU-Idaho!

Congratulations on your student's journey at BYU-Idaho! We know that parents play an important role in their students' college experience, so we want to share some helpful BYU-Idaho resources with you. Whether your student is just beginning at BYU-Idaho or continuing their education here, we are excited to support you and your family this semester.

## Parent Newsletter

Sign up for our Parent Newsletter to receive helpful tips on supporting your student's college journey, along with important updates and deadlines.

## Discover Activities You Can Participate In

New Student Orientation offers fun and informative activities for parents to be part of the college experience. Parent activities will take place on Tuesday, January 6th, giving you the opportunity to explore the campus, learn about resources, and see how you can support your student as they begin this exciting journey.

See Parent Activities During NSO

## Campus Resources for Your Student

Prospective Students

Our Mission 
About BYU-Idaho 
Admissions Application 
Cost of Attendance 
BYU-Idaho Best Value College 
Campus Tours 
Honor Code

First-Year Students

Accessibility Services 
Counseling Center 
First-Year Experience Student Journey 
Financial Aid 
Housing 
Parking

Continuing Students

Peer Mentoring 
Dean of Students Office 
Wellness Center 
Student Employment 
Financial Aid 
Advising

BYU-Idaho Parent & Family Program

Please reach out with any questions, concerns, or support needs for your student's journey at BYU-Idaho. 
 
****Phone:**** (208) 496-1419 
****Email:**** parents@byui.edu
Pre-Arrival | First-year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# Pre-Arrival

Pre-Campus Orientation

Before arriving on campus, new students must complete the Pre-Campus Orientation to learn about student life, academics, wellness, and safety.

Get Involved

Pre-Arrival Updates

Each week you will receive a Pre-Arrival Update in your myBYUI portal that will help you prepare for your BYU-Idaho experience.

Get Involved

Pre-Arrival Onboarding

Our Pre-Arrival Team will be assigned to you to answer any questions or concerns you may have and ensure your success.

Get Involved
Pre-Arrival Mentors | First-year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# Pre-Arrival Onboarding

## Connecting with Your Pre-Arrival Team

All students who accept their offer will be contacted by the Pre-Arrival Team prior to their start date at BYU-Idaho. 
 
The Pre-Arrival Team will continue to contact you as needed and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

> "True disciples of Jesus Christ have always been concerned for the one."

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin

## Support That Starts Before You Arrive on Campus

Pre-Arrival prepares new students to succeed in their first semester of college. We answer questions, build connections, and support our students in a way that gets them excited to start their educational journey at BYU-Idaho.

Helping You Get Ready for Day One

Before you even step foot on campus, we're here to help. Our team guides you through the Pre-Campus Orientation and make sure you have the resources you need to start strong.

What You Can Expect from Pre-Arrival

From housing to class registration, we'll walk with you every step of the way--and answer any questions along the journey.

Each year, our team helps more than 13,000 students--meeting them where they are and wherever they're from. Here's how we'll support you before you arrive:

Schedule a one-on-one video call

Assist with class registration and BYUI 101

Help you register for New Student Orientation

Pre-Arrival Updates

Each week you will receive a Pre-Arrival Update in your myBYUI portal that will help you prepare for your BYU-Idaho experience.

Review Your Pre-Arrival Updates

Contact Pre-Arrival Today

****Pre-Arrival Team**** 
(208) 496-1424 
prearrival@byui.edu
Student Resources | First-year Experience | BYU-Idaho

# First Year Resources

Pre-Campus Orientation

Prior to arriving on campus at BYU-Idaho, all freshmen should complete Pre-Campus Orientation, where they'll learn more about student life and culture, academics, wellness and safety, and much more.

Get Involved

New Student Orientation (NSO)

Come get to know campus! NSO activities range from spiritual and academic, to informal and fun. Here you will find the dates and information for your upcoming orientation!

BYUI 101: Experience BYU-Idaho Course

The Experience BYU-Idaho course is a fun and engaging intro to the BYU-Idaho campus and its resources.

Get Involved

Student Guide

The student guide is a one-stop reference site for BYU-Idaho students to help them quickly access campus resources and services.

Get Involved

Student Activities

Every semester offers events for you to meet new people and have fun. From dances and talent shows to laser tag and open mic nights, enjoy a positive, clean social experience.

Get Involved

Paying for School

Going to school costs money. Luckily, there are multiple ways to pay for school. Learn about the cost of BYU-Idaho, specific fees, resources to have enough funds and how to pay for school.

Housing

Explore on- and off-campus housing options for students.

Get Involved

Dining

Discover a variety of dining venues and meal options on campus.

Get Involved

Parking

Find information about parking permits, visitor parking passes, and parking rules and regulations.

Get Involved

Academic Success

We have more resources for your success than we could fit on this page. All you have to do is ask! These are some of the most important campus groups for you to become familiar with.

Get Involved

Register for Classes

This is where you will learn when to register for your classes, how to register, and what to expect.

Get Involved

Tech and Free Software

Learn how to print on campus, install free Microsoft Office programs, connect to campus Wi-Fi, use the myBYUI Mobile App, and more!

Freshman Focus Program

The Freshman Focus Area program is a two-semester program for new freshman that helps you explore possible majors and careers.

Get Involved

Campus Wards & Stakes

Find your Campus Ward and Stake information, including bishop, ward name, location, and meeting times.

Get Involved

Mentoring

As part of your first-year experience, you will have the opportunity to participate in Pre-Arrival and First-Year Mentoring.

Get Involved

Student Health Insurance Plan

As part of your Pre-Arrival orientation, you will have to complete the Student Health Insurance Plan.

Get Involved
GenAI | Generative Artificial Intelligence | BYU-Idaho

# GenAI

## Updates from the University AI Office

AI Updates

Gemini Gems Bring Personalized AI Assistants to Education and Research

By 
University AI Office

September 24, 2025 10:55 AM

Ever wished for an AI assistant you could customize? Now you can with ****Google Gemini Gems****--and they're shareable, allowing you to create and collaborate on powerful AI tools for your classes, projects, and more.

2 Min Read

Get Involved

AI Updates

AI 101 Course: Grounded in Prophetic Counsel

By 
University AI Office

September 15, 2025 08:35 AM

This new training course helps you align your use of AI with the BYU-Idaho mission and ethical principles, grounded in prophetic counsel from Elder Bednar.

1 Min Read

Get Involved

AI Updates

New Gemini Image Generation Updates

By 
University AI Office

August 27, 2025 01:04 PM

New AI tools are revolutionizing how we preserve memories, with the ability to fix old photos and make them look brand new. Read more about the amazing potential and the crucial cautions you need to be aware of.

3 Min Read

Get Involved

> BYU-Idaho engages with GenAI tools to help us fulfill our mission as we prepare students for their futures as disciples of Jesus Christ who are leaders in their homes, the Church, and their communities.

## GenAI at BYU-Idaho

Artificial Intelligence, specifically Generative AI (GenAI), is rapidly evolving and becoming increasingly important in our everyday lives. Find out how you can safely and responsibly use Generative AI at BYU-Idaho.

About GenAI

Find training materials, discover what AI is, and access developer information.

Get Involved

GenAI Training

This collection of materials will be beneficial in helping those at different levels learn about various topics relating to GenAI.

Get Involved

Academic Integrity and AI Use at BYU-Idaho

Rules and guidelines for ethical use of Gen AI in the classroom; what to do, and what not to do.

Get Involved

GenAI and Copyright

Both training and using AI services--especially GenAI-- can put you at risk for copyright, right to privacy, or right of publicity lawsuits.

Get Involved

GenAI and Privacy

Artificial intelligence relies heavily on data, making it crucial to follow key privacy principles to protect personal information and prevent misuse.

Get Involved

GenAI Products

Many AI products exist and many more are in development. Their functionality and purpose vary greatly.

Get Involved

## A Place of Permanent Innovation

Consistent with our prophetic direction to be a "place of innovation--permanently," generative artificial intelligence will strengthen and advance BYU-Idaho's strategic position of:

1. Teaching-Focused Faculty

2. Realizing Potential in Everyone

3. Providing Real-World Preparation

4. Offering a High-Value Education
AI Unlocked: Foundations for the Future | BYU-Idaho

AI Unlocked: Foundations for the Future

## This webinar from BYU-Idaho's AI Expo covers the basics of artificial intelligence, focusing on responsible and ethical use within the university. Presenters discussed available AI tools (Copilot, Gemini, ChatGPT), prompt engineering techniques, and the importance of data privacy. The ethical implications of AI, including bias, plagiarism, and copyright concerns, were also highlighted, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and adherence to university policies. Discussions included establishing AI governance committees and utilizing resources like BYU-Idaho's Gen AI website. The webinar concluded with a look at upcoming AI integrations within the Canvas learning management system. Recorded Monday, Nov. 18th, 2024.
Workplace 2.0 AI in Action | Generative AI | BYU-Idaho

Workplace 2.0 AI in Action

## The conference features presentations and panel discussions with professionals from various sectors, including software engineering, law, marketing, and healthcare. Key themes explored include the ways AI is enhancing productivity and efficiency in different fields, the importance of developing AI literacy and prompt engineering skills, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI implementation, particularly regarding data privacy and the potential displacement of human workers. The overall purpose is to equip students and faculty with a comprehensive understanding of AI's transformative potential and to prepare them for its increasing role in future careers. The discussions also highlight the importance of maintaining human connection and authenticity in the face of AI advancements, even within fields like interviewing and customer service. Recorded Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024.
Leveled Up Learning: AI's Impact on Learning and Teaching | BYU-Idaho

Leveled Up Learning: AI's Impact on Learning and Teaching

## Wednesday's BYU Idaho AI Expo session focused on integrating artificial intelligence ethically and effectively into the university curriculum. The session features faculty panelists from various departments showcasing innovative AI applications in their courses, emphasizing both the benefits (increased efficiency, personalized learning) and potential pitfalls (over-reliance, ethical concerns). Key themes include responsible AI integration through clear policies, student training in AI literacy, and a shift from product-based to process-based assessment. The ultimate purpose is to prepare students for workplace expectations where AI proficiency is increasingly crucial while upholding the university's values and promoting responsible technological advancement. The session concludes with discussions on broader AI implications in higher education, including future possibilities and potential challenges. Recorded Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
The Human and the Machine: Keeping the Human in the Loop | BYU-Idaho

The Human and the Machine: Keeping the Human in the Loop

## Discussions on various aspects of artificial intelligence. One segment focuses on the rapid advancements in AI platforms like Google and ChatGPT, highlighting the ongoing evolution and occasional bugs. Another section discusses the complex and evolving legal landscape surrounding AI, emphasizing the need for jurisdiction-specific legal counsel and constant awareness of changing regulations. A student panel reveals their experiences using AI, both positive and negative, highlighting concerns about ethical use, academic integrity, and the potential for AI to replace critical thinking. Finally, a faculty member analyzes the impact of AI on information workers, predicting a shift from AI generation to AI management as a key future skill and outlining strategies for preparing students for this change. Recorded Nov. 21, 2024.