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Seasiders

Remembering One's True Identity

Benoy Tamang's family consisting of 10 adults and four small children.
Benoy Tamang surrounded by his wife, grandchildren, and children.

Benoy Tamang grew up in a Christian home accustomed to a military lifestyle, so his family would move and relocate every two years to a new part of the world. This constant movement made his household rely on one another, recalling they were a very happy family.

However, the greatest change in his life happened during his senior year in high school with Tamang's cousin, Subbas Suba. Suba had just returned home to Hong Kong as a new alumnus of Brigham Young University–Hawaii and a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Reminiscing on his time spent in Hawaii, Suba began asking Tamang what plans he had for his future. He then encouraged him to meet with Charles Goo, a dean at BYU–Hawaii who happened to be in Hong Kong visiting, to discuss the potential of Tamang attending the university. During that conversation, Brother Goo extended a scholarship to Benoy Tamang; the rest is history.

Memories from BYU–Hawaii

Tamang recalls the spirit of the campus being "serene and welcoming." Falling in love with the climate, beaches, and friendly people was easy. However, it took several months for Tamang to adjust to the lifestyle lived and carried out by the latter-day saints he found himself surrounded by. Eventually, he decided to enter the waters of baptism and join the church. He attributes his conversion to a cumulation of people and experiences, pleased that the decision was his own and made after he took time to allow his heart to soften.

Tamang explains the situation in his own words: "the gospel of Jesus Christ is so true that it cannot be pushed onto any individual. Its precious message can only be received with love, example, and gentle guidance."

Implementing Gospel Truths in a Career

Graduating from BYU–Hawaii with a degree in Computer Information Systems in 1986, Benoy Tamang is now a consultant and spends his time coaching first-time tech CEOs in their quests for success. However, one commonality he's seen in clients' pursuits for triumph is they often forget who they are. He refers to this loss of identity as a void that is not effortlessly filled or replaced with monetary gain or notable career achievements.

He encourages all to remember their true identity as a child of God. This truth can be easily forgotten, but life becomes easier through the daily basics of scripture study, prayer, and temple attendance. "Focussing on and prioritizing what matters leads to deeper happiness and joy."

Tips for Students

In sharing academic advice to prospective and current students, Tamang suggests students should "study to learn instead of learning to study, become a continuous learner, and you can be successful anywhere while accomplishing anything." Acquire skills now that will result in lifelong learning. He also reminds this generation of students to enjoy their time at university. "I rushed to finish school early and now question why was I in such a hurry to leave this place?"

Adding to his life's takeaways, Tamang said, "the biggest thing I've learned is to be flexible with goals and aspirations. Of course, you should always set goals and aspirations. But if things don't work out, it doesn't mean you failed; it just means you need to pivot and adjust." He also adds that getting married has been one of life's greatest blessings, testifying that you achieve more together as a team than you ever could on your own.