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What is it like to be a non-Mormon attending a Mormon college or university?

Attending a Mormon college or university, such as Brigham Young University (BYU), as a non-Mormon can be a unique and sometimes challenging experience. Here are some key points that highlight what it might be like:

Social and Cultural Adjustments

Non-Mormon students often feel like they are part of a religious minority, with only about 1-2% of the student body not being members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints1 3 4.
The campus culture is deeply rooted in Mormon values and practices, which can make non-Mormon students feel isolated or viewed as "different"3 4.
Social interactions can be affected, as non-Mormon students may not share the same emotional experiences or participate in certain events, such as celebrating mission calls1 4.

Honor Code and Lifestyle

BYU has a strict Honor Code that all students must adhere to, regardless of their religious affiliation. This includes dress standards, no smoking, drinking, sex, or drugs, and appropriate speech and behavior2 3 5.
Non-Mormon students must comply with these rules, which can be a significant adjustment, especially if they are not used to such strict guidelines.

Religious Classes and Environment

Non-Mormon students are required to take several religious classes, which can be challenging for those not familiar with Mormon doctrine. These classes can feel overwhelming, especially for students who have not been taught these concepts before1 4 5.
The environment is highly focused on the Church, with many students and faculty actively practicing their faith. This can lead to frequent discussions about religion, which may not be what non-Mormon students are accustomed to4 5.

Interactions with Mormon Peers

Many Mormon students are friendly and welcoming, but there can also be a push to convert non-Mormon students to the Church. Non-Mormon students often report being approached with the intention of conversion1 3 4.
Despite the friendliness, there can be misunderstandings or misconceptions about non-Mormon students' moral standards or beliefs. Non-Mormon students may need to clarify their own values and boundaries4.

Support and Resources

BYU offers some resources and clubs to help non-Mormon students integrate into the campus community and maintain their own spiritual practices. For example, there are clubs like Cross Seekers Christian Fellowship for Protestant and evangelical students5.
The university's Office of Belonging also provides support for students who may feel isolated or need help adjusting to the campus culture4.

Personal Experiences

Personal experiences vary widely. Some non-Mormon students find the environment enriching and appreciate the intellectual and spiritual atmosphere, despite the challenges5.
Others may find the strict rules and dominant Mormon culture difficult to navigate, particularly in areas such as dating and socializing3 4.

In summary, attending a Mormon college as a non-Mormon requires a significant amount of cultural and social adjustment. While the education is highly regarded, the unique religious environment and strict Honor Code can present challenges that non-Mormon students need to be prepared to face.