Name: Jared Marcum
BYUH employee since… 2011
My job at BYU–Hawaii is… an associate professor in the Faculty of Religious Education.
I grew up in… Nevada and Idaho.
I chose to teach at BYU–Hawaii because… I served my mission in Hong Kong and was always impressed at how many church leaders attended BYU–Hawaii. However, I never had plans to teach here until doing some research on the BYUH I.T.E.P. program during my doctoral program. I was deeply impressed. When I saw a job posting that fit my experience and education, I felt the spirit nudge me to apply.
My favorite thing about teaching is… is interacting with the students and helping them discover new insights about the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The best advice I’ve ever received about teaching is… to focus more on what the students need to do to learn instead of just what content I need to teach.
My most cherished memory at BYUH is… the Church History Travel Study Program. I have enjoyed taking students to the sacred places where the miracles of early restoration took place. Many of these students never dreamed of visiting the sacred grove, Kirtland, Nauvoo, or Carthage. Being a witness to their deep gratitude for all that took place at those sites is deeply humbling. I am also grateful to have helped develop the programs for the Edward D. Smith Center for Learning & Teaching, which helps faculty become Christlike teachers.
My advice to incoming first-year students and graduating seniors is… to do the gospel things first. School is often overwhelming, and it is easy to let the most important things fall to the side. Never forget, above all, you are a disciple of Christ.
My favorite lecture/course to teach is… Foundations of the Restoration.
My parents, who are both teachers, sparked my interest in my field. They helped me see the importance of teachers and education.
On Saturday mornings, you’ll find me… working in my yard, in the ocean, or crafting something out of wood.
The next big trip I’m interested in… is presenting at the University of Oxford this summer. I've never been to Europe, the land of my ancestors. I look forward to seeing where they lived.
My favorite holiday is… Easter.
If I could travel anywhere, I would go to… Hong Kong. I loved my mission and have only returned one time. I'd love to go back again.
When I have 30 minutes of free time… I enjoy the outdoors and do sports.
My favorite hike on the island is… the Kaipapau Pillbox Trail in Hauula.
During the summer months… I visit family.
One of my hobbies is… woodworking. I have made several pieces of furniture.
On Friday nights, you’ll find me… on a date with my wife, Sister Stephanie Marcum. She is my best friend, and I always look forward to Friday night dates.