Guided to the Right Place

January 2026

Caleb Arnett grew up as the youngest in a large, close-knit family in Gilbert, Arizona. His parents encouraged their children to try everything, and Arnett did—joining clubs, swimming competitively, singing in choirs, and leading student organizations. “They were really good at helping us go after every opportunity,” he says.

That same spirit of curiosity followed him into his service for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the New Hampshire Manchester Mission. “It was wonderful,” he says. “I think it was there that I discovered my love for the outdoors and for nature.” And, more importantly, “It helped strengthen my faith in Jesus Christ.”

Near the end of his mission, while filling out his application for BYU, Arnett noticed a small checkbox labeled “Send your application to BYU-Idaho.” He recalls, “I thought, ‘I could do that.’ It didn’t feel like a big deal at the time—but I felt like I should.”

After returning home from his mission, Arnett began seriously considering where to attend school. “That’s when I really felt like BYU-Idaho was the place for me and the place where the Lord wanted me to go,” he says.

Finding His Place

Arriving in Rexburg for the first time, Arnett wasn’t sure what to expect. But almost immediately, he sensed the unique spirit that sets BYU-Idaho apart.

“What stood out to me most was the culture,” he says. “People were so involved and encouraging. There were more opportunities than I ever expected—if you wanted to do something or be involved in a certain club or subject, there was always a place to find it.”

That atmosphere of connection soon became the hallmark of his college experience. “I loved the relationships with professors and classmates,” he says. “It wasn’t like a huge university where you’re just another face in a lecture hall. Here, people knew you. They cared.”

During his time at BYU-Idaho, Arnett’s heart was drawn toward science and medicine. He chose to major in biomedical science, a good fit for his constant curiosity and his desire to serve. “I felt that working in healthcare would let me help people in a really tangible way,” he says. As Arnett continued his studies, he learned not just science but discipleship.

Someone in His Corner

Arnett’s education was made possible through the generosity of others. “I received scholarships and financial aid, and it made such a difference,” he says. “It felt like someone was in my corner—people I didn’t even know, cheering me on.”

That support lifted both financial and emotional burdens. “It wasn’t just about the money,” he reflects. “It meant that others believed in me and wanted to invest in my future. . . . Knowing that made me feel part of a much larger community. I just want them to know it matters. It’s not lost on us. Their sacrifice really changes lives.”

Prepared to Lead and Serve

Arnett graduated from BYU-Idaho in July  of 2025 with his degree in biomedical science and now works at the University of Utah Hospital as an ophthalmic medical technician. In this role,  he helps patients prepare for eye exams, assists in minor surgeries, and supports ophthalmologists and optometrists.

“I love it,” he says. “It’s meaningful work, and I get to help people every single day.” Medical school is the next step—he’s discerning which field of medicine he’ll ultimately pursue. Ophthalmology is at the top of his list.

Beyond academic preparation, Arnett credits BYU-Idaho for teaching him something deeper. “At this age, it’s easy to feel like you have to do everything on your own,” he says. “But BYU-Idaho helped me see that we’re not meant to go through life alone. There’s a whole culture of support there—spiritually, emotionally, academically. And most of all, it helped me understand that Jesus Christ is always in our corner.”

That realization, he says, has shaped how he works and lives now. “When you go out into the world, you realize not everyone had that same guidance or example,” he explains. “BYU-Idaho taught me how to lead, how to work with others, and how to uplift people while keeping my faith at the center. It’s truly a disciple preparation center.”

A Grateful Heart

When Arnett looks back, that small decision to check one more box feels like a defining moment—one that led him to lifelong friends, a strong education, and a testimony that continues to guide his path.

To him, BYU-Idaho is “one of the greatest places on earth.” He says, “I’m so grateful the Lord led me there."