FSY Session Advisors

How do I get involved?

Teaching opportunities are by assignment only and are typically filled by Seminaries and Institute (S&I) employees. If you are non-S&I and are interested in the limited opportunities available, you may contact FSYFaculty@byu.edu.

What is My Role?

The session director is vital to the overall success of the FSY program. Session directors work to accomplish the objective of FSY: Youth and young single adults will strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ, feel an increased sense of belonging, and be empowered to continue having spiritual experiences at home.

What should I expect?

As a session advisor or session advising couple, you'll play a vital role in the overall success of FSY throughout the week. Your goal is to help youth strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ and feel joy and belonging as they live the gospel by engaging in inspired learning opportunities and wholesome social experiences. Teaching true principles and doctrine, working with young single adult session leadership and counselors, facilitating relationships and communication, and mentoring the youth are all part of advising a session.

Spousal participation is not required but is strongly encouraged. Include your spouse in all devotionals and activities. Youth benefit from seeing a husband and wife working together to share their combined talents as a couple. You will be role models for the youth and young adult staff through formal teaching opportunities, as well as countless informal teaching moments. Participate together in the activities. The more you're involved, the better! Take opportunities to get to know the youth and the counselors. Remember that whatever your talents are, you will never regret getting out of your comfort zone. Be creative, have fun, and enjoy the session!

What are session advisors and their spouses saying about their FSY experience?

“Watching the youth and young adult counselors deepen their conversion and gain a sense of belonging in the gospel has been our favorite part of FSY!”  - Eric and Megan

"What I like about FSY is the change that happens in the participants during the week. It’s like watching a caterpillar transform into a beautiful butterfly. The strong testimonies are strengthened and the infant testimonies begin to blossom and grow. FSY is a treasured experience, for sure!" - Ruth

"One of the things that I enjoy most about working [at FSY] is forming relationships not just with the youth, but also with the young adults who work as counselors and staff. The counselors have the biggest impact on the youth, as spend so much time teaching them and being with them. I hope, as a Session [Advisor], that I can guide the young adults in ways that help them through their lives and also in ways that they can pass that along to the youth." - Kelly

Session Advisor Spouse

Session advisor spouses make a big difference in the success of the FSY session. We've compiled a list of "Best Practices" from former and current session advisor spouses that will help you understand your role and how you can make a difference.

  • Smile and be approachable.
  • Informally welcome youth to devotionals and activities by standing at the entrance and giving high-fives or elbow bumps.
  • During orientation, take 2 minutes to introduce yourself and talk about your family. Let the youth get to know you.
  • Play games with the youth during game activities. Don't be afraid to jump into a rotation with the youth.
  • Mingle with youth during meals or free time.
  • Visit a company during their gospel study time.
  • Visit a counselor group during reflect and review.
  • Attend the classes.
  • Bear your testimony during any speaking opportunities.
  • Participate in the dances.
  • Be friendly. Say hello.
  • Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. The youth will follow your example.
  • Look for the one. Oftentimes youth struggle to belong and you can help integrate them into activities.
  • Make this your FSY family for the week.
  • Follow the Spirit and give attention to who needs you.
  • Be flexible, let the Spirit guide your efforts.

Even if you don't desire to teach with your spouse, you have much to offer and contribute. Your talents are needed. You and your spouse will strengthen and support each other in your efforts throughout the week.