BYU offers so much. There are so many things you can do, and you might not even get to all of it. But no matter what, you can find something that creates your own BYU experience.
The first time Isaac Packer (CELL ’25) held a human brain in his hands, he was in awe of both its complexity and simplicity at the same time. He found it incredible that one small organ could be responsible for controlling the entire human body. Gaining such an appreciation and understanding of the human body has been one of Packer’s favorite experiences in the anatomy labs.
Packer learned about the different organ systems in his first anatomy class and studied cadavers in the lab. Though it was strange at first, his perspective changed with time. “These people have donated their bodies so that we can learn,” Packer explained. “Being able to look at it and know, ‘this is one of God’s greatest creations,’ is one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had.”
As Packer became more familiar with the material, he discovered how much he enjoyed helping others understand. Seeing the light turn on for other students inspired him to become an anatomy TA, a role he has held for five semesters. From learning about the growth of an embryo to holding a human brain and heart in his hands, Packer has enjoyed discovering how the systems of the body work together.
Embracing the Uncomfortable
Packer thought research wasn’t his thing. But, thanks to a seminar on cancer research, his interest was piqued, and he started working in Dr. Jared Barrott’s lab. Although trying something new can be intimidating, Packer’s experience in the Barrott Lab transformed his view on research. “I learned how much fun research actually is,” he shared. He realized research is about growth, with some experiments failing and others showing progress, a process he found rewarding.
“Even though I was hesitant at first, I’m really grateful that I’ve done research, especially here at BYU,” Packer continued. He emphasized BYU’s focus on how research can impact the world and help God’s children.
Inspired by his newfound love of research, Packer dove headfirst into several other new opportunities, which allowed him to learn, grow, and form connections with people across campus. He worked several on-campus jobs, including refereeing for BYU intramural sports, and he engaged in service opportunities including coaching the Special Olympics Softball Team. “BYU offers so much. There are so many things you can do, and you might not even get to all of it,” Packer shared. “But no matter what, you can find something that creates your own BYU experience.”
Finding His Path
Packer always knew that he wanted to serve people in a medical capacity. Dentistry seemed like a good option with several family members working in the field, but before choosing that path, Packer prayerfully considered all his options. “I was fortunate; my family didn’t push me into it,” Packer shared. “They always let me make my own decisions.”
The more classes he took, the more he felt drawn to dental school. This led him to spend time with his relatives in dentistry. While working for his dad, he saw patients come with pain and then leave within an hour feeling better. Packer liked the idea of being able to serve in this capacity and decided to pursue dentistry.
“The emphasis on service here at BYU has been a building block to my future goals,” Packer shared. Inspired by programs that take their dental students to provide basic care in third-world countries, Packer hopes to incorporate service into his future practice. He envisions having free dental days for individuals without health insurance to help them receive care. Packer is looking forward to starting dental school at Virginia Commonwealth University next fall.
Packer is so grateful for the experiences he’s had at BYU and encourages other students to take advantage of the opportunities available to them. “Don’t be afraid to try new things and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone,” Packer said. He recognizes how his time at BYU has shaped him through academics and through extracurricular pursuits. “I would tell anybody coming to BYU to prepare for the most interesting and wonderful religious and intellectual learning experience they've ever had,” Packer continued. “Attending BYU has been a privilege in my life.”