I (Institute)-Start
A guide for implementing an orientation experience into institute for seminary graduates.
First or second week of the September school holidays.
Local institute program.
Current Year 12 students are invited to participate in an orientation experience for institute and to continue attending thereafter. The experience may include some or all the following:
• Welcome to institute and an explanation of how it works
• Discussion on the importance of participating in institute
• Testimonies about institute from previous graduates or RMs
• A panel discussion of YSA - YSA? Institute? What is that? How can this church program bless me? Students ask questions of the YSA panel
• An overview of class options, and or the special workshop for graduating students called, “Choices for Eternity”
• A brief scripture experience or lesson about lifelong discipleship
• A priesthood leader guest speaker
• Devotional and refreshments with the stake institute
• A special social activity with the stake institute
Many seminary graduates struggle to understand the importance of institute. Seminary finishes at a busy time for Year 12 students, so starting institute in the school holidays is a better time for transition. Progressing in a group and having a specific course can help with the intimidation that some students may feel about the transition. Having a specific teacher may also assist with tracking and support.
Confirm I-Start and include in stake calendar.
Work with Institute leaders beginning in June to organise and plan I-Start for September.
Invite YSA leaders to visit seminary classes before the September school holidays and encourage graduates to attend I-Week.
Seminary teachers promote I-Start with youth and parents beginning at least 4 weeks before September school holidays.
Bishops promote I-Start with parents as it approaches.
Ensure every graduate and parent gets a personal invitation to attend I-Start in the last week of term 3 seminary.
Discuss progressing to institute every time we engage with seminary graduates rather than focusing on graduation alone.
Confirm with stake leadership, if the institute program will run a special transition class for graduates from September to the end of institute or if they will just be encouraged to attend the current classes running at that time.