For BYU–Hawaii student Jacob Alexander Albee, science and faith are more than academic interests; they’re guiding forces that have shaped his life’s journey from Washington state to the shores of Oahu.
“I was born in Vancouver, Washington, and raised there my whole life,” Albee said. “I’ve always loved learning, especially about biology.”
His love of learning led him to double-major in biology and computer science, and to pursue three minors in biochemistry, education, and history. Though it sounds like a lot, for Albee, it’s all part of a bigger purpose. “I want to be a professor one day,” he said. “I think education is one of the best ways to serve others.”
From Hardship to Hope
Albee’s path to BYU–Hawaii hasn’t been easy. He recalls a time when his family, his parents, and five siblings struggled to make ends meet.
“When I was in high school, we lost our apartment and were homeless for about three years,” Albee said. “We lived in our car, stayed with church members when possible, and spent a lot of time in public libraries because they had Wi-Fi so I could do my schoolwork.” Albee credits his faith and his family’s example for keeping him grounded. “I think 2 Nephi 2 really helped me, the idea that opposition has purpose,” he said. “Christ gave meaning to those hard times. They made me more empathetic, more aware of others.”
A Mission that Refined Faith
After graduating from high school, Albee served a full-time mission in the California San Bernardino Mission. It was during that experience, he said, that his youthful fascination with science deepened into a disciplined sense of purpose.
“I think my mission really taught me discipline,” Albee said. “Before that, I didn’t always have it. But by serving, studying, and learning from companions and those we taught, I saw how much I could grow.”
One of the most memorable moments from his mission came while teaching individuals who had powerful spiritual experiences. “It reminded me that miracles still happen,” he said. “That testimony of modern revelation and spiritual gifts strengthened me.”
Finding Love and Purpose on Campus
After returning from his mission, Albee began classes at BYU–Hawaii and met his future wife. “I met her at a Japan Club event,” he said with a smile. “We didn’t talk much at first, but later we found out our accounting classes were right next to each other. We started chatting, going on walks, and eventually began dating.”
They married in December 2024. “She’s incredibly kind and thoughtful,” Albee said. “We just had the same vibe and spirit. I think that connection was simple and spiritual.”
Research with Real-World Impact
Now a student researcher under microbiology professor Dr. Weeks, Albee studies bacteriophages that infect bacteria and could help protect coral reefs in Hawaii.
“The bacteria we study are pathogens that kill coral,” he explained. “We’re finding viruses that infect those bacteria. Basically, they clean up the infection and help the reef recover.”
Albee said their research has already found at least two new species of bacteriophage. “It’s exciting because this could make a difference not just locally but globally,” he said. “Healthy coral reefs mean healthier ecosystems, which help the Pacific communities that depend on the ocean.”
Balancing Faith, School, and Research
Between advanced coursework, marriage, and scientific research, Albee says balance can be difficult, but faith keeps him grounded.
“Elder Uchtdorf gave a talk where he said the gospel isn’t something you balance alongside everything else; it’s the energy that keeps it all moving forward,” Albee said. “That perspective really helps me find peace in the middle of everything.”
Advice for Students
As he looks toward graduation in 2027, Albee offers advice to new students seeking their path: “Stay involved,” he said. “Talk to professors. Go to the Undergraduate Research Conference, it’s one of the best ways to get inspired.”
And when challenges come, he added, perseverance matters most. “If you mess up, if you don’t get the A or miss a deadline, don’t give up. Keep working hard. That growth mindset will take you far.”
Purpose, Centered in Christ
Reflecting on his journey from hardship to hope, Albee sees every step as part of God’s refining process.
“I’ve learned that trials bring our imperfections to the surface,” he said. “It’s not comfortable, but it’s how Christ helps shape us into something better.” For Albee, that process continues in the lab, in the classroom, and in daily life. “I love BYU–Hawaii,” he said. “This is where I’ve really learned what it means to live with purpose, centered in Christ, and striving for excellence.”