Kailey was an Admissions Outreach Intern for BYU Admissions during Winter 2025.
Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.
During my internship with BYU Admissions, I had the opportunity to travel around the state of Utah and give presentations to high school juniors about higher education and what BYU has to offer. It was honestly one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. I got to speak with hundreds of students—from small towns to bigger cities—and help them see that college is an option for them, and that there’s a place like BYU where they can grow spiritually, academically, and personally.
A lot of the students I talked to hadn’t really thought about college seriously yet, or didn’t know where to start. Being able to represent BYU and share not just the application process, but also the amazing opportunities available—like study abroad programs, majors they’d never heard of, scholarships, and the supportive campus community—was super meaningful to me. I could literally see some of them light up when they realized, “Wait, this is something I could actually do.”
The biggest result of this internship was the impact it had on those students. I wasn’t just giving information—I was helping them realize there’s hope and help for their future. I truly believe I made a difference, even if just by planting the idea that higher education is possible and worthwhile.
What did you learn on your internship that you were not expecting to learn?
One thing I didn’t expect to learn during my internship with BYU Admissions was just how different every student’s story is—and how important it is to really listen. Going into the internship, I thought I’d mainly be giving info about BYU and answering basic questions, but I ended up having a lot of one-on-one conversations with students who opened up about their fears, doubts, and even personal challenges when it came to thinking about college.
It really taught me how to connect with people on a deeper level, and how much of a difference it makes when someone feels seen and heard. I also didn’t realize how much I’d grow in my communication skills. Every school and audience was different, so I had to adapt how I presented and how I connected with students. It pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way.
How have your future plans changed because of what you learned from your internship experience?
This internship definitely opened my eyes to new career paths. I’m now potentially considering becoming a high school or college advisor because I loved helping students realize they can succeed. It made me want to keep motivating others and be someone who helps them see a future they didn’t think was possible.
Please share how your experience led to personal inspiration or insightful revelation.
This internship honestly changed the way I see both education and my own purpose. It made me realize how many students are out there who don’t see their own potential simply because no one’s told them they have it. That really inspired me. I started to see that what I was doing wasn’t just about BYU—it was about helping people see they have a future. I realized that I want to keep doing work that lifts others, that helps them recognize their worth and what’s possible for them.
It also gave me a deeper appreciation for my own education. Being at BYU is a huge blessing, and I think this experience helped me not take that for granted. I feel more motivated than ever to make the most of what I have, and to keep using it to serve and inspire others.
Would you recommend this internship to other students?
Absolutely—I would 100% recommend this internship to other students.
This experience was way more than just something to put on a resume. It gave me the chance to grow personally and professionally while doing something that actually mattered. I got to represent BYU, travel around the state, meet amazing students and educators, and develop real skills like public speaking, adaptability, and connecting with people from all different backgrounds.
But beyond all that, it was incredibly meaningful. You’re not just giving presentations—you’re giving students hope and helping them see that higher education is within reach.
Is there anything else you would like to say regarding your internship?
Overall, this internship was an incredibly rewarding experience. It gave me a chance to not only represent BYU but also make a real impact on students' futures. I’m grateful for the chance to grow both personally and professionally, and it definitely inspired me to pursue a career where I can continue to help others find their path and reach their potential. It was more than just a job, it was a chance to make a difference!
