Uncertainty to Confidence

November 2025

College wasn’t really in Athena Rutman’s plans, but she had a quiet, persistent impression that the Lord wanted her at BYU. Now she knows firsthand how BYU offers its students “an atmosphere of faith, mentors, and opportunities that help us grow into something we never expected,” she says.

As a first-generation student, Rutman struggled during her first semester on campus. “I remember walking around campus feeling small. I was surrounded by students who seemed smarter and more prepared than me,” she says.

Then Rutman found a major and professors and mentors who encouraged her, and she took chances to stretch and learn. She has worked in the PR Intelligence Lab, an on-campus student-run public relations firm; Early Learning Essentials, a local nonprofit; and APPG FoRB, a UK nonprofit. Through these connections, Rutman has “put textbook theories into practice and solved actual problems for real organizations,” she says.

During her time at BYU, Rutman presented a paper at a national conference and has been involved in the Public Relations Student Society of America. “PRSSA helped me stay up to date in PR and network with professionals,” she says.

She also interned at a local nonprofit, Early Learning Essentials, and saw how communication and outreach strengthen communities. Currently she is working on a capstone project with APPG FoRB, a UK nonprofit that works to free people imprisoned for their religious beliefs.

“Thank you for believing in students like me,” Rutman tells donors. “Your impact goes beyond the classroom; it transforms lives, families, and communities across the world.” With her newfound confidence, Rutman helped her siblings navigate their first year at BYU. “I no longer question if I belong at BYU,” she says.