As a Native Hawaiian, I have witnessed firsthand the healthcare shortage that continues to impact our islands. Whether it's the long wait to see a dentist or the overcrowded hospitals, the need for more medical professionals in Hawai‘i is undeniable. A recent study found that our state is short more than 800 physicians—a number that reflects a deeper crisis in access to care. Additionally, 53% of Native Hawaiians have moved to the mainland due to the increasing cost of living. This statistic is not only alarming but deeply disheartening, as it reflects the reality that many of our people are being displaced from their homeland. I want to provide my family—especially my son—with the life they deserve here in Hawai‘i, on the land that shaped us. That is why I am currently a fourth-year student at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, majoring in Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences. My ultimate goal is to help reduce the physician shortage in Hawai‘i, even if only in a small way. Because even one more doctor means that someone in our community won’t have to go weeks—or even months—without the care they need. I’ve committed myself fully to this path, both through my academic studies and independent research. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Professor Dabalos and a fellow student on a project investigating the effects of glyphosate, a chemical found in Roundup, on native limu. Our research revealed that runoff from areas treated with glyphosate was linked to decreased phenylalanine levels—an essential amino acid required for limu to grow and thrive. I am also currently working with the same professor on a biomass project, where we are converting agricultural biowaste into reusable energy through fermentation. These experiences have not only strengthened my scientific foundation but have also deepened my connection to our land and environment. Balancing life as a father, a full-time student, and a provider is not easy—but I’ve never shied away from hard work. Whether it’s staying up late to study or waking up early to care for my son, I continue to persevere—not just for my own future, but for the betterment of our community. There is nothing more meaningful to me than giving back to the people and the land that made me who I am. In addition to becoming a physician, I hope to inspire others in my community. If I can do all this while raising a child and working to support my family, then others can too. I want to be a source of hope and motivation—a reminder that with purpose, discipline, and heart, we can all rise and serve Hawai‘i with pride.

As a Native Hawaiian, I have witnessed firsthand the healthcare shortage that continues to impact our islands. Whether it's the long wait to see a dentist or the overcrowded hospitals, the need for more medical professionals in Hawai‘i is undeniable. A recent study found that our state is short more than 800 physicians—a number that reflects a deeper crisis in access to care. Additionally, 53% of Native Hawaiians have moved to the mainland due to the increasing cost of living. This statistic is not only alarming but deeply disheartening, as it reflects the reality that many of our people are being displaced from their homeland. I want to provide my family—especially my son—with the life they deserve here in Hawai‘i, on the land that shaped us. That is why I am currently a fourth-year student at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, majoring in Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences. My ultimate goal is to help reduce the physician shortage in Hawai‘i, even if only in a small way. Because even one more doctor means that someone in our community won’t have to go weeks—or even months—without the care they need. I’ve committed myself fully to this path, both through my academic studies and independent research. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Professor Dabalos and a fellow student on a project investigating the effects of glyphosate, a chemical found in Roundup, on native limu. Our research revealed that runoff from areas treated with glyphosate was linked to decreased phenylalanine levels—an essential amino acid required for limu to grow and thrive. I am also currently working with the same professor on a biomass project, where we are converting agricultural biowaste into reusable energy through fermentation. These experiences have not only strengthened my scientific foundation but have also deepened my connection to our land and environment. Balancing life as a father, a full-time student, and a provider is not easy—but I’ve never shied away from hard work. Whether it’s staying up late to study or waking up early to care for my son, I continue to persevere—not just for my own future, but for the betterment of our community. There is nothing more meaningful to me than giving back to the people and the land that made me who I am. In addition to becoming a physician, I hope to inspire others in my community. If I can do all this while raising a child and working to support my family, then others can too. I want to be a source of hope and motivation—a reminder that with purpose, discipline, and heart, we can all rise and serve Hawai‘i with pride.

As a Native Hawaiian, I have witnessed firsthand the healthcare shortage that continues to impact our islands. Whether it's the long wait to see a dentist or the overcrowded hospitals, the need for more medical professionals in Hawai‘i is undeniable. A recent study found that our state is short more than 800 physicians—a number that reflects a deeper crisis in access to care. Additionally, 53% of Native Hawaiians have moved to the mainland due to the increasing cost of living. This statistic is not only alarming but deeply disheartening, as it reflects the reality that many of our people are being displaced from their homeland. I want to provide my family—especially my son—with the life they deserve here in Hawai‘i, on the land that shaped us. That is why I am currently a fourth-year student at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, majoring in Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences. My ultimate goal is to help reduce the physician shortage in Hawai‘i, even if only in a small way. Because even one more doctor means that someone in our community won’t have to go weeks—or even months—without the care they need. I’ve committed myself fully to this path, both through my academic studies and independent research. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Professor Dabalos and a fellow student on a project investigating the effects of glyphosate, a chemical found in Roundup, on native limu. Our research revealed that runoff from areas treated with glyphosate was linked to decreased phenylalanine levels—an essential amino acid required for limu to grow and thrive. I am also currently working with the same professor on a biomass project, where we are converting agricultural biowaste into reusable energy through fermentation. These experiences have not only strengthened my scientific foundation but have also deepened my connection to our land and environment. Balancing life as a father, a full-time student, and a provider is not easy—but I’ve never shied away from hard work. Whether it’s staying up late to study or waking up early to care for my son, I continue to persevere—not just for my own future, but for the betterment of our community. There is nothing more meaningful to me than giving back to the people and the land that made me who I am. In addition to becoming a physician, I hope to inspire others in my community. If I can do all this while raising a child and working to support my family, then others can too. I want to be a source of hope and motivation—a reminder that with purpose, discipline, and heart, we can all rise and serve Hawai‘i with pride.

As a Native Hawaiian, I have witnessed firsthand the healthcare shortage that continues to impact our islands. Whether it's the long wait to see a dentist or the overcrowded hospitals, the need for more medical professionals in Hawai‘i is undeniable. A recent study found that our state is short more than 800 physicians—a number that reflects a deeper crisis in access to care. Additionally, 53% of Native Hawaiians have moved to the mainland due to the increasing cost of living. This statistic is not only alarming but deeply disheartening, as it reflects the reality that many of our people are being displaced from their homeland. I want to provide my family—especially my son—with the life they deserve here in Hawai‘i, on the land that shaped us. That is why I am currently a fourth-year student at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, majoring in Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences. My ultimate goal is to help reduce the physician shortage in Hawai‘i, even if only in a small way. Because even one more doctor means that someone in our community won’t have to go weeks—or even months—without the care they need. I’ve committed myself fully to this path, both through my academic studies and independent research. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Professor Dabalos and a fellow student on a project investigating the effects of glyphosate, a chemical found in Roundup, on native limu. Our research revealed that runoff from areas treated with glyphosate was linked to decreased phenylalanine levels—an essential amino acid required for limu to grow and thrive. I am also currently working with the same professor on a biomass project, where we are converting agricultural biowaste into reusable energy through fermentation. These experiences have not only strengthened my scientific foundation but have also deepened my connection to our land and environment. Balancing life as a father, a full-time student, and a provider is not easy—but I’ve never shied away from hard work. Whether it’s staying up late to study or waking up early to care for my son, I continue to persevere—not just for my own future, but for the betterment of our community. There is nothing more meaningful to me than giving back to the people and the land that made me who I am. In addition to becoming a physician, I hope to inspire others in my community. If I can do all this while raising a child and working to support my family, then others can too. I want to be a source of hope and motivation—a reminder that with purpose, discipline, and heart, we can all rise and serve Hawai‘i with pride.

As a Native Hawaiian, I have witnessed firsthand the healthcare shortage that continues to impact our islands. Whether it's the long wait to see a dentist or the overcrowded hospitals, the need for more medical professionals in Hawai‘i is undeniable. A recent study found that our state is short more than 800 physicians—a number that reflects a deeper crisis in access to care. Additionally, 53% of Native Hawaiians have moved to the mainland due to the increasing cost of living. This statistic is not only alarming but deeply disheartening, as it reflects the reality that many of our people are being displaced from their homeland. I’ve committed myself fully to this path, both through my academic studies and independent research. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Professor Dabalos and a fellow student on a project investigating the effects of glyphosate, a chemical found in Roundup, on native limu. Our research revealed that runoff from areas treated with glyphosate was linked to decreased phenylalanine levels—an essential amino acid required for limu to grow and thrive. I am also currently working with the same professor on a biomass project, where we are converting agricultural biowaste into reusable energy through fermentation. These experiences have not only strengthened my scientific foundation but have also deepened my connection to our land and environment. Balancing life as a father, a full-time student, and a provider is not easy—but I’ve never shied away from hard work. Whether it’s staying up late to study or waking up early to care for my son, I continue to persevere—not just for my own future, but for the betterment of our community. There is nothing more meaningful to me than giving back to the people and the land that made me who I am.

As a Native Hawaiian, I have witnessed firsthand the healthcare shortage that continues to impact our islands. Whether it's the long wait to see a dentist or the overcrowded hospitals, the need for more medical professionals in Hawai‘i is undeniable. A recent study found that our state is short more than 800 physicians—a number that reflects a deeper crisis in access to care. Additionally, 53% of Native Hawaiians have moved to the mainland due to the increasing cost of living. This statistic is not only alarming but deeply disheartening, as it reflects the reality that many of our people are being displaced from their homeland. I want to provide my family—especially my son—with the life they deserve here in Hawai‘i, on the land that shaped us. That is why I am currently a fourth-year student at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, majoring in Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences. My ultimate goal is to help reduce the physician shortage in Hawai‘i, even if only in a small way. Because even one more doctor means that someone in our community won’t have to go weeks—or even months—without the care they need. I’ve committed myself fully to this path, both through my academic studies and independent research. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Professor Dabalos and a fellow student on a project investigating the effects of glyphosate, a chemical found in Roundup, on native limu. Our research revealed that runoff from areas treated with glyphosate was linked to decreased phenylalanine levels—an essential amino acid required for limu to grow and thrive. I am also currently working with the same professor on a biomass project, where we are converting agricultural biowaste into reusable energy through fermentation. These experiences have not only strengthened my scientific foundation but have also deepened my connection to our land and environment. Balancing life as a father, a full-time student, and a provider is not easy—but I’ve never shied away from hard work. Whether it’s staying up late to study or waking up early to care for my son, I continue to persevere—not just for my own future, but for the betterment of our community. There is nothing more meaningful to me than giving back to the people and the land that made me who I am. In addition to becoming a physician, I hope to inspire others in my community. If I can do all this while raising a child and working to support my family, then others can too. I want to be a source of hope and motivation—a reminder that with purpose, discipline, and heart, we can all rise and serve Hawai‘i with pride.

From a young age, I was surrounded by perseverance and ambition. My adoptive mother’s journey into healthcare was not just a career move—it was a testament to resilience. She pursued her dream of opening an optometry clinic while also raising me, demonstrating the power of hard work, determination, and sacrifice. Watching her balance the demands of building a business while being a devoted mother has always been a source of inspiration for me. Her perseverance showed me that dedication and passion can overcome even the most difficult challenges. Seeing the impact she had on her patients, helping them improve their vision and quality of life, planted a seed in me early on—a deep respect for healthcare and the ability it has to change lives. I believe I’ve developed a similar passion for medicine. While I originally started as a kinesiology major, I ultimately switched to a pre-med track because I wanted to be on the frontlines of saving lives. The decision wasn’t easy—especially as a new parent myself—but I haven’t regretted it for a second. Balancing school, work, and fatherhood has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it has also reinforced my determination. Every time I step into a lab or dive into my coursework, I am reminded why I chose this path. I thrive in hands-on learning environments, and I find deep satisfaction in problem-solving, critical thinking, and applying scientific knowledge to real-world scenarios. Although I was advised to keep an open mind about my future specialization until medical school, I have always been drawn to radiology, oncology, and anesthesiology. These fields intrigue me because they each play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating patients, often at critical moments in their lives. I want to be part of a profession that not only treats disease but also provides hope, relief, and healing. My journey hasn’t been conventional, and the road ahead won’t be easy, but I am committed to this dream. I want to use my degree to make a lasting impact, whether by working in underserved communities, contributing to groundbreaking medical advancements, or mentoring future medical students who, like me, may face obstacles along the way. My mother’s resilience taught me that success is not about having a perfect path but about having the perseverance to keep moving forward. No matter what challenges come my way, I am determined to become a physician who makes a difference in people’s lives—just as my mother did in her own way.

As a Native Hawaiian, I have witnessed firsthand the healthcare shortage that continues to impact our islands. Whether it's the long wait to see a dentist or the overcrowded hospitals, the need for more medical professionals in Hawai‘i is undeniable. A recent study found that our state is short more than 800 physicians—a number that reflects a deeper crisis in access to care. Additionally, 53% of Native Hawaiians have moved to the mainland due to the increasing cost of living. This statistic is not only alarming but deeply disheartening, as it reflects the reality that many of our people are being displaced from their homeland. I want to provide my family—especially my son—with the life they deserve here in Hawai‘i, on the land that shaped us. That is why I am currently a fourth-year student at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, majoring in Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences. My ultimate goal is to help reduce the physician shortage in Hawai‘i, even if only in a small way. Because even one more doctor means that someone in our community won’t have to go weeks—or even months—without the care they need. I’ve committed myself fully to this path, both through my academic studies and independent research. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Professor Dabalos and a fellow student on a project investigating the effects of glyphosate, a chemical found in Roundup, on native limu. Our research revealed that runoff from areas treated with glyphosate was linked to decreased phenylalanine levels—an essential amino acid required for limu to grow and thrive. I am also currently working with the same professor on a biomass project, where we are converting agricultural biowaste into reusable energy through fermentation. These experiences have not only strengthened my scientific foundation but have also deepened my connection to our land and environment. Balancing life as a father, a full-time student, and a provider is not easy—but I’ve never shied away from hard work. Whether it’s staying up late to study or waking up early to care for my son, I continue to persevere—not just for my own future, but for the betterment of our community. There is nothing more meaningful to me than giving back to the people and the land that made me who I am. In addition to becoming a physician, I hope to inspire others in my community. If I can do all this while raising a child and working to support my family, then others can too. I want to be a source of hope and motivation—a reminder that with purpose, discipline, and heart, we can all rise and serve Hawai‘i with pride