Diversity, scholarships and being in a spiritual environment are some of the reasons students said they are grateful to be attending BYUH. Students also shared they take the Laie Hawaii Temple and living on Oahu for granted.
Inosi Kinikini, a junior from Fiji majoring in psychology, said, “Coming to BYUH, being close to the temple and being in a spirit-filled environment reminds you of who you are as a member of the Church.”
The diversity at BYUH and on Hawaii is one reason Teeya Le’i, a sophomore from Kahuku studying human resources, said she is grateful she transferred from BYU. Although she said she enjoyed her time in Provo and being able to leave the island, she missed the diversity she experienced in Hawaii.
She shared how growing up on in Hawaii and being surrounded by other cultures was what created her love for diversity. Le’i said Asian and other Pacific Island influences is what makes the culture in Hawaii unique. “Diversity makes [Hawaii] a special place.” She shared with all the different cultures at BYUH the gospel is something that connects everyone.
“While we may be different, there are a lot of similarities between us.”
Aspen Fiander, a senior from Washington majoring in business management, said she is also grateful for the diversity at BYUH. “I’m grateful to be able to learn from [the different cultures], get to know other people and expand my knowledge of the world.” She added the diversity at BYUH makes it different from other colleges.
Kinikini shared he is thankful for the scholarships offered to international students. “I don’t have to stress,” Kinikini said. Because of scholarships, he said he can focus on his education without having to worry about finances and being able to pay tuition on time.
Taking opportunities for granted
Having a temple nearby is something Le’i said she takes for granted. “It’s literally right there … we can walk there.” According to Le’i, she does not go as much as she could, and she wants to take full advantage of having a temple nearby.
She added, “I take for granted that I grew up here.” Le’i works at the Polynesian Cultural Center and often sees how people are excited to be visiting Oahu. “Hawaii seems like a dream place for some people,” and she added she sometimes forgets how Hawaii is a special place.
Camilla Saylor, a senior from Texas majoring in psychology, said there are times she feels she does not take advantage of what the island has to offer. She noted how she wants to go to Chinaman’s Hat, but she has not made the time to do the hike.
Staying positive
Kinikini said when he is struggling in school, he thinks of his family. “When I’m stressed out at school, I always think of my family … and what my family sacrificed for me to be here.” He also shared that going to the temple helps him stay positive because he always feels better after attending the temple.
When the day is over, Saylor said she chooses to think of things she is grateful for. “At the end of the day, I go through my day… and think of all my blessings.” She said she does this to remind her of the small blessings in her everyday life.