I never thought that I could be a “poster child” for something, but I think that is what I’m about to do. I want to tell you about my amazing experience with the Pathway program, and how it could help you reach new levels of spirituality, confidence and the skills necessary to achieve goals you might not have thought were possible. PathwayConnect (Pathway, for short) is a low-cost education program that helps people start or return to college. I think it is much more than that. Even though I did not attend college, I’ve had a successful career. Actually, I’m planning on retiring in a couple of years. So, why would I want to attend this program? When it first came out a few years ago, I thought it sounded great, but I felt I was too busy. I also felt that maybe this isn’t how I should spend my time since I was getting near the end of my career. Maybe I should spend it doing more service.
The thing that most interested me about Pathway was the religious aspect, and how it could help you learn to study the scriptures in a better way. Each year, I said, maybe next year. Then last year, Elder and Sister Jentzsch, who are serving as the Pathway missionaries for our stake, came to our ward to present the program. I was feeling more and more inspired, but still worried it wasn’t how I should be spending my time. Then came the counsel that let me know that furthering my education is a righteous goal.
“For members of the Church, education is not merely a good idea — it’s a commandment,” says President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor in the First Presidency. Members of the Church are instructed to learn “of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad” (D&C 88:79).
Pathway has blessed my life in more ways that I can begin to tell you. I’m still very busy, but spending my time more wisely. The Lord has definitely increased my capacity to accomplish more than I thought possible. I’m going to save some of my story for later. Since I’m the Self-Reliance Group Coordinator, I am going to help get the word out to the wards along with Elder and Sister Jentzsch. They are working on scheduling visits to each ward as we seek out those who would benefit from this program. Classes start in early September and registration is from June 21st to August 27th.
The journey doesn’t have to end after Pathway. You can then attend BYU Idaho online and obtain professional certificates, an associate degree, or bachelor’s degree. Once you complete Pathway, the low-cost tuition stays the same for the remainder of your classes. You can’t beat that! For example, below are options for Marriage & Family Studies. They also have options for business, technology, and professional studies. They even have a degree in Family History!
Pathway isn’t just for the young; it is for all ages. It is for anyone who wants to improve their life and professional skills. It is for anyone who wants to be a better disciple of Christ and have a deeper understanding of our purpose here on earth. If you are interested, don’t wait for us to come to your ward. Give us a call, and we can give you more information and answer any questions. Or check out the PathwayConnect website.
Regards,
Diane Burgoon
Sister Jentzsch: lajentzsch@gmail.com
Diane Burgoon: diane.burgoon@yahoo.com
byupathway.lds.org
Akron Ohio Stake News 