Uploaded March 27, 2015As the 185th semi-annual General Conference approaches on April 4 and 5, BYU-Hawaii students shared their belief that personal preparation is the key to a successful viewing experience. This can be difficult; not only does the two-day event occur only days before final projects, essays, exams and graduation, but in Hawaii it also broadcasts live before the sun rises. Saturday and Sunday sessions begin at 6 a.m. due to the six-hour time difference between the islands and Salt Lake City, Utah, where the conference is held. “I usually think of some questions and what I want to know the most,” said Sarah Weung, a junior from Hong Kong studying communications. “I will also review past conference talks. If I do that, then I know that the Lord can direct me to receive new inspiration and get the most out of conference.”Students, as well as professors and BYUH staff gave tips on how to be both spiritually and physically prepared for conference. Sonja Klev, a junior from Maine studying business management, said, “I pray for the Spirit to direct me in my life and to let me know what I should do, especially with the big decisions. If you go into conference with these questions, you will be in the right mindset to receive revelation and answers.” Some take a simpler approach to their preparation. For example, English instructor Scott Patrick said, “I just clear the schedule for the weekend and then just kick back and soak up the inspiration.”In addition to personal preparation, students and faculty said they face the challenge of preparing their small children for the several hours of conference. Administrative nurse Anita Olszowke from Haaula said, “My advice would be to start the kids early. Make a habit of watching conference together early.” Her children are adults now, but she remembered how she and her husband prepared to help their children connect with conference. “We also always had photos of the apostles in the house so the children could recognize them when they were talking during conference.”Conference begins on Saturday April 4 at 6 a.m. live and will conclude on Sunday afternoon. It will be shown live at the Heber J. Grant Building.On lds.org, additional conference viewing information says, “All sessions will be streamed live on the home page of LDS.org. They are also available via the Church satellite system, radio, television, satellite, and other digital channels. See How to View Live for more details. For specific times, languages, and rebroadcast information, refer to the Church broadcast schedule. Sessions will be recorded and archived for later viewing on conference.lds.org.”
Writer: Trenton McCullough
