Vulcans Involved By Engagement
Follow UH Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy student Kamaha‘o Kini-Lopes from Nānākuli and Kapolei on the island of O‘ahu, as he shares his journey with us. A Kamehameha Schools graduate, his passion for culture and community led him to UH Hilo, where he weaves elements of both into his pharmacy career. Discover what “Connecting Learning, Life and Aloha” means to him, in this special edition of the “My Journey” Vulcan V.I.B.E. series.
Video by: David Zachary Ramos
Name: Samuel Garcia
Majors: Psychology and Communication
Where I am from: Hilo, Hawai‘i
Role at UH Hilo: Senior, Class of 2025
Why did you choose to attend UH Hilo?:
I chose UH Hilo because I was interested in getting more into the community and experiencing the opportunities that UH Hilo offers to all of it’s students.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about coming to UH Hilo?
If someone was considering going to UH Hilo, would tell them its a great place for anyone! The professors and classes offered make it easy to be flexible and gain a sense of belonging in the environment.
How has UH Hilo and/or your major’s program benefitted you?
My program has provided a very diverse study program to chose from, and I feel that when I graduate I will feel well-versed in a multitude of theories and practical experience. Additionally, I have felt a lot of freedom being able to chose my classes, and genuinely by my advisors especially.
What have your experiences been like with students, faculty and staff?
There is a lot of friendly people here, and not just people who work here. Experienced students are always friendly to new students who may be lost or looking for advice. There is plenty of people who will get you out of your shell, and others that will help to push you out of your comfort zone. Mentors, friends, or good times come easy at UH Hilo.
What surprised you about UH Hilo?
I think the thing that surprised me the most about UH Hilo were the connections that you can make here. A lot of the staff comes from diverse backgrounds, not just here in Hawaii, but all over the world. If there’s a place you would want to work or study a connection at UH Hilo is ready to build that bridge for you!
If you could give advice to a future student, what would it be?
If I would give advice to future students, I would say to talk to the professors, lectures, or staff. Many of them are ready to give you advice, or offer their support. Additionally, make sure to go to events hosted by the school and the student associations. They may seem intimidating at first, but can help you learn things about yourself you may not know you have a passion for yet.
How does UH Hilo connect learning, life and aloha?
UH Hilo connects the fundamental of learning, life, and aloha by providing free student services for essentials, training certifications offered to its student workers, and many community services for future jobs. The thing making UH Hilo special that it cares about you now and cares about your future!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I think to give special thanks to the faculty and staff that make my education their priority!
Looking for a change from the fast-paced life on O‘ahu, Sean Ellis Nicely, a business major from ‘Aiea High School, chose UH Hilo. From Hilo’s natural environment to the diversity of cultures on campus, discover what “Connecting Learning, Life and Aloha” means to him, in this special edition of the Vulcan V.I.B.E.
Video by: David Zachary Ramos
A first-generation college student with a passion for the environment, Shayla Kiyota from Pearl City High School on O‘ahu, wanted to stay in Hawai‘i and chose UH Hilo. Her Marine Science major with a minor in Hawaiian Studies, allows her to combine traditional Hawaiian culture with her love of the ocean. Discover what “Connecting Learning, Life and Aloha” means to her, in this special edition of the “My Journey” Vulcan V.I.B.E. series.
Video by: David Zachary Ramos
‘Iliahi Tancayo from Ho‘olehua, Moloka‘i shares her aloha with others through the knowledge she’s gained as a UH Hilo Hawaiian Studies major and by giving back to the community – mālama kekahi i kekahi – “to take care of one another.” 🌺
Discover what “Connecting Learning, Life and Aloha” means to her, in this special edition of the “My Journey” Vulcan V.I.B.E. series.
Video by: David Zachary Ramos
Join aquaculture major Samuel Chiu from Lakeridge High School in Portland, Oregon, as he shares his passion for sustainability in both land and sea – his dream of learning “cool science in cool places” brought him to UH Hilo. Discover what “Connecting Learning, Life and Aloha” means to him, in this special edition of the “My Journey” Vulcan V.I.B.E. series.
Video by: David Zachary Ramos