In literature and journalism, BYU has produced several best-selling authors, including Orson Scott Card '75, Brandon Sanderson '00 & '05, and Stephenie Meyer '95.

Other media personalities include ESPN sportscaster and former Miss America Sharlene Wells Hawkes '88 and former co-host of CBS's The Early Show Jane Clayson Johnson '90.

In the music industry BYU is represented by former American Idol contestant Carmen Rasmusen and The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square director Mack Wilberg.

Alumni have comprised several General Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including two church presidents (Thomas S. Monson '74 and Ezra Taft Benson '26), six apostles (Neil L. Andersen, D. Todd Christofferson '69, David A. Bednar '76, Jeffrey R. Holland '65 & '66, Dallin H. Oaks '54, and Reed Smoot 1876), and two General Relief Society Presidents (Julie B. Beck '73 and Belle Spafford '20).

[9] A number of BYU alumni have found success in professional sports, representing the university in 7 MLB World Series, 5 NBA Finals, and 25 NFL Super Bowls.