Building a Stronger Campus Community: Increasing School Unity at BYU–Idaho
A sense of unity and school spirit is essential to a thriving college experience. At BYU–Idaho, many students feel disconnected from their peers and the institution itself. According to a recent survey, nearly 40% of students expressed that they don’t feel connected to the university. While this figure may not reflect the entire student body due to a small sample size, the concern remains valid. Student’s are less connected to their peers and to the institution itself.
The Consequences of Student Disengagement
A lack of student involvement can have far-reaching effects on both individuals and the university as a whole. Students who don’t feel connected to their school are more likely to experience:
- Lower academic performance – A disengaged student is less motivated to excel in their studies.
- Higher dropout rates – Students who lack a sense of belonging are more likely to leave the university before graduating.
- Increased mental health struggles – Feelings of isolation can lead to anxiety and depression.
With these consequences in mind, finding effective solutions to foster unity and involvement at BYU–Idaho is crucial.
Proposed Solutions to Enhance Student Engagement
Three key initiatives could help increase school spirit and create a more engaged student body:
1. Introduce Intercollegiate Sports
Many universities use athletics to foster school spirit, and BYU–Idaho could benefit from doing the same. Intercollegiate sports provide students with opportunities to rally behind their teams, creating a unifying experience through games, competitions, and school traditions. Studies have shown that schools with successful athletic programs often see increased student involvement, higher retention rates, and stronger alumni engagement.
Challenges: Establishing intercollegiate sports requires significant financial investment in facilities, scholarships, coaching staff, and travel. The university would also need to balance athletics with its academic mission.
2. Enhance Campus Clubs and Organizations
Another way to improve student engagement is by expanding and improving the current club and organization structure. A stronger promotion strategy, better funding, and increased faculty support could help clubs become more effective in engaging students.
Challenges: While clubs can be impactful, they require active leadership and consistent participation to thrive. If students do not take initiative, engagement may remain low despite the resources available.
3. Create a Campus-Wide Service Initiative
Service is a core value at BYU–Idaho, and implementing a large-scale service initiative could bring students together while benefiting the surrounding community. A well-structured service program would align with the university’s mission while fostering a sense of purpose and belonging among students.
Challenges: Many students would not participate lowering its effectiveness. Additionally it would require strategic initiatives to create sustainable partnerships with local organizations.
The Best Option: Intercollegiate Sports
While all three initiatives have merit, intercollegiate sports offer the most impactful long-term benefits for school unity. Athletics naturally attract widespread student participation, whether as athletes or spectators. Sporting events create traditions, strengthen alumni connections, and encourage school pride. Though costly, the benefits of increased engagement, retention, and school spirit make intercollegiate sports the strongest solution.
Final Thoughts
A sense of unity at BYU–Idaho is essential for student success and institutional growth. Whether through sports, clubs, or service, investing in student engagement will lead to a more vibrant and connected campus community. By taking action now, BYU–Idaho can build a stronger culture of involvement, ensuring that students not only enjoy their college years but also leave with lasting connections and fond memories. Attached below are more in depth explorations of the topic
By: Mikhail Moojalsky