Braden Watt, a junior from Utah majoring in economics and marketing, shares how the values of the gospel, hard work, and community engagement have helped him create a mindset that embraces Heavenly Father’s gift of agency.
A Desire for Cultural Learning
Hailing from Clearfield, Utah, Watt transferred from another university to Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH) to pursue a more intimate learning environment and a unique, multicultural experience. “I remember being in a lecture hall of about 250 students. I wanted a place where I could grow academically, spiritually, and culturally in a more intimate capacity.” Watt shares. “BYU–Hawaii has given me that and more.”
Growing up as the oldest of four siblings in Utah, Watt’s family life instilled in him a strong work ethic and a drive to succeed. His height at 6 feet and 4 inches makes him stand out physically, but it’s his passion for business and economics that truly defines him. Having been raised in a close-knit family, he values meaningful relationships and has carried these values into his academic and professional life.
Watt’s journey included a mission that started in the Philippines Olongapo Mission and continued in Texas Houston Mission due to the COVID-19 pandemic. His experiences in both places gave him unique perspectives on economic disparities and social challenges, sparking a deeper interest in how economic policies and business practices impact everyday life.
Communication and Common Ground
His experiences at BYU–Hawaii have also strengthened Watt’s faith. He explains that he struggled with feelings of loneliness and doubt after leaving his friends and familiar surroundings in Utah, but things changed when he met his wife, Armari. “Meeting her was one of those moments where I realized why I was meant to be here. She makes me a better person and understands and cares about people in a way I’ve never met or seen anyone else in the world,” Watt said.
Watt credits the Holokai system of BYU–Hawaii, saying, “I can be a truer version of myself by being able to progress so much more with my major and minors,” he said. Watt, who also minors in theatre, emphasizes that by saying, “I love the combination of theatre and marketing. My idea was always, ‘How can I market something but also talk about it?’ Theatre classes improve my voice, the way I communicate, and how I connect with other people, complimenting my marketing major.”
The diversity of BYU–Hawaii’s student body has also left a lasting impression on Watt. “Being here, I’ve realized how much we all have in common. We may come from different countries and backgrounds, but we’re all students facing similar challenges, fears, and aspirations. It’s helped me see that our similarities unite us more than our differences separate us.”
"Beyond the Business"
Watt has ambitious goals for his future, and his podcast, "Beyond the Business," is one way he’s already putting his education to use. The podcast focuses on interviewing high-profile entrepreneurs and capturing the highs and lows of their journeys. “Employers are looking for what you can do, not just what you know,” Braden explained. “The initiation behind the podcast is learning to communicate with people, asking deep questions, and connecting with everyone in a meaningful way.”
When asked how he sees himself growing as a disciple of Christ at BYU–Hawaii, Watt responded thoughtfully, saying, “We all go through moments that test our faith. At BYU–Hawaii, I’ve learned that faith grows when we ask for it and when we take action to build it. Every challenge I face here is an opportunity to strengthen my connection with God. I learned that I don’t have to rush. I’m not late. I’m on time. I’m just on the Lord’s journey.”
Braden Watt’s journey at BYU–Hawaii is one of courage, growth, and a commitment to becoming the best version of himself through connecting with other people. As he continues his studies in the world of business, he hopes to inspire others to live their life by making connections with their fellow children of God.