How did your education here contribute to your professional success?
The achievement of my professional goals is a direct result of my education from Chaminade University. The Forensic Sciences program allowed me to explore the many opportunities the field had to offer, reaffirmed my passion for investigation, and equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. The program allowed me the unique opportunity to intern at the Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office where I would later join their team of investigators in 2019. I am proud to be born, raised, and educated in Hawaii and I am now honored to represent and serve our local community.
Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you?
The summers in between each academic year were some of my most valuable experiences and cherished memories. My professors always encouraged participation in extracurricular activities. Every summer I had the opportunity to participate in different summer research programs through Chaminade University, University of Hawaii, and Purdue University. As a result I gained research experience in marine biology, microbiology, and forensic sciences. While the research was an invaluable experience, I fondly remember these summers as times I was snorkeling with turtles in Kaneohe Bay, experiencing a summer in Indiana, and eating deep dish pizza in Chicago. These summer opportunities culminated into research presentations that allowed me to travel and present at several local and national conferences. My favorite conference was the American Academy of Forensic Sciences Conference in Las Vegas during my senior year.
How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?
The Marianist characteristic to educate for adaptation and change is a philosophy that has guided me through my college education and beyond. This value has given me the courage to accept every success and disappointment with an open heart and open mind. Accepting every opportunity to learn and grow set me on a path to achieve my goals and find fulfillment in every aspect of life.
How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?
Since graduating I have applied my education to my career as a medicolegal death investigator for the City and County of Honolulu. I continue to participate in research with Chaminade University that started while I was an undergraduate and have since been an author on my first professional publication. I am also pursuing certification as a diplomate with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators.
How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?
Studying Forensic Sciences at Chaminade University was the best decision of my life. At 17 years old, pursuing what I thought was a non-conventional degree of study was intimidating. My education at Chaminade brought what was once a dream into reality and I am forever grateful to the university that brought that dream to fruition. In my experience I learned that every dream is worth pursuing and the potential for success outweighs any fear of failure. I was fortunate enough to find the right university that connected me to mentors who would support my ambitions and who continue to support me on my personal and professional journey.
