At BYU’s commencement exercises, journalism student Amy Ortiz will represent the graduates as the student speaker. This profile celebrates her BYU experience and how God has magnified her to bless the lives of others.
When 9-year-old Amy Ortiz first emigrated to the United States from Mexico, she could not have imagined herself becoming an accomplished journalist. Learning a new language and culture was daunting and writing was a struggle. But she watched how her parents thrived with courage, education and service. Now, Ortiz recognizes that her BYU path has revolved around these values. Her confidence comes with placing Jesus Christ at the forefront of her goals and decisions.
“My parents were able to share the gospel — lead and serve — and have the means to do so thanks to their joint efforts to obtain work and education. Their example allowed me to see firsthand how education leads to service.”
Ortiz’s proclivity for journalism is an extension of innate gifts as well as experiences that have stretched her to learn a new language and culture, keenly observe, get to know people and gather information. These experiences have also increased her empathy for others.
This past semester, Ortiz has been interning with the Church News. She was naturally attracted to this opportunity because she loves the Church, faith stories and positive news.
“It’s been a wonderful learning experience — being with the team and being able to use the skills that I’ve been learning at BYU to inspire, uplift and create meaningful content.”
Ortiz’s service-oriented attitude continues to produce confidence. “Oftentimes the messages that I’m writing have been exactly what I needed that day or that moment. Being able to share that, and hope that it inspires something or someone else, has been wonderful.”
As Ortiz nears graduation, she plans to continue connecting with others and share meaningful stories and content. Her underlying motives have not changed.
“I want to be a beacon of light, truth and hope. God is our loving Heavenly Father, and we are all His children. I want to treat everyone with love and respect and tell their stories truthfully. I feel like the Lord is teaching me that when I put Him first, He will continue to strengthen me.”
Read the full University Communications article by Sharman Gill here.