"We meet once a week, but not everyone comes," Baker says. "Because our numbers are growing, it's becoming harder to have the family atmosphere we strive for. I wouldn't say we're tight-knit because it is something very specific we have in common."

But the power of their shared faith and lifestyle is very important, Mormon students say. They say they hope the new temple will help tie their community together more closely.

"The thing that characterizes Mormons in communities is that they're such a cohesive group," Woolley says.

"Business school is such a crazy, indulgent experience," she adds. "It's great to hear how other people of my religion are living out their faith. Partying is a big part of the culture. Sure, we go to parties, but there are lots of things that we don't approve of. For example, we don't drink. It would be hard to be the only Mormon at a school. There would be lots of pressure to engage in activities like these. The strength of having a community is powerful."

At home, that community is rooted in the family.

"I have three brothers and three sisters," Brinton says. "On Monday nights we had Family Home Evening. About eight o'clock my dad would give a lesson out of the New Testament, then we'd get together and play games."

But at college, Mormon students make a concerted effort to create a tight community, including religious education, classes and social events.

"We all go to the same congregation, and that helps," Brinton says.