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AWE (A Woman’s Experience)

AWE, acronym for A Woman’s Experience, is an annual journal of BYU Women’s Studies and is co-published by the College of Humanities and College of Family, Home, and Social Sciences. Founded in 2011, the journal provides an opportunity for interdisciplinary investigation into all aspects of a woman’s experience in the academy and elsewhere.

Current Volume: Volume 12 (2025)

From the Editors

We are thrilled to present the 2025 edition of AWE: A Woman’s Experience. This publication is a project shaped by collaboration, curiosity, and a genuine desire to highlight women’s stories. AWE is only possible because of the dedication of our editorial team, the vision of our graphic designer, and the authors and artists whose talents fill these pages. We are equally grateful for the mentorship of Dr. Marlene Esplin and Dr. Daniel Paul, as well as the support of Emily Nelson from the Kennedy Center’s publication staff. Their willingness to guide and encourage us has anchored this entire process.

The works gathered here offer glimpses into the many ways women navigate the world through creativity, memory, conflict, growth, and self-discovery. Every submission we received carried its own perspective and emotional depth. Even though only a portion appear in this edition, we were humbled by the trust each contributor placed in us by sharing their experiences. We carry deep respect for every voice represented here, whether published or not.

Reaching our twelfth issue invites us to reflect on why AWE exists and why it matters. At its core, AWE seeks to carve out a space where women can speak in their own words and on their own terms—a space that insists their stories deserve attention and care. We hope this journal continues to serve not only the BYU community but readers beyond it, offering moments of recognition, solidarity, and connection. Thank you to our contributors, audience, and everyone who believes in the importance of amplifying women’s voices. Your support makes this work possible.

Warmly,

Mia Todd

McKenzie VanOrden

Elen Reed

Full Issue

Front Matter

Essays

PDF

Woven into One
Elise Marie Hatch

PDF

Serenade in C
Chloë M. Robinson

Poems

PDF

Patterned After Poppies
Elise Marie Hatch

PDF

Red Awe
Ella Marie Paligo

PDF

God’s Reflection
Shannon Lindsay

PDF

Insecurity
Ana Gabriela

PDF

On and Off
Madison Sacriste

PDF

Jael the Kenite
Madison Sacriste

Artwork

PDF

The Creation Coat
Jane Wilson Boyle

PDF

Weight of the World
Makenna Durfee

PDF

The Miscarriage
Madi Mykal

PDF

Midnight Stroll
Emma Wilson

PDF

Abused and Confused
Marilyn Quach

PDF

To Have a Sister
Crystal Gonzalez Callison

PDF

The First Thirteen Years
Crystal Gonzalez Callison

End Matter