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How did your education here contribute to your professional success?

My education played a pivotal role in shaping my professional success by equipping me with a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. The academic environment fostered my ability to adapt to new challenges, which has been essential in my roles as a Project Manager, Instructional Designer, and in leadership positions like my current role as a Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines. Through my education, I also developed a deep understanding of instructional design principles, which has been critical to creating engaging, learner-centered programs in both corporate and non-profit settings.
Additionally, the exposure to diverse subjects and collaborative projects during my education enhanced my communication and teamwork skills, preparing me to work effectively across industries. These competencies, combined with a continuous drive for learning, have allowed me to excel in complex, fast-paced environments, from designing training programs to leading teams in dynamic corporate settings like Hawaiian Airlines.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you?

One of the most impactful experiences during my time pursuing my Master of Business was my involvement with the Hogan Entrepreneurs program. This program not only pushed me academically but also helped me develop a mindset of innovation and resilience, which has been invaluable throughout my career.
Working closely with the faculty involved in this program, I had the privilege of engaging in one-on-one discussions with some truly exceptional professors and mentors. These interactions went beyond the classroom, where faculty would challenge my thinking, encourage new ideas, and offer invaluable guidance on how to apply business concepts in real-world situations. Their personalized feedback and encouragement helped me build the confidence to take on leadership roles in my career, from managing complex projects to leading training initiatives.
The combination of the structured learning in the Hogan Entrepreneurs program and the personalized mentorship from faculty had a profound impact on my professional journey. It not only honed my entrepreneurial mindset but also reinforced the importance of strong leadership, collaboration, and continuous learning—principles I carry with me to this day.

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

My education profoundly shaped both my professional perspective and personal growth by broadening my understanding of leadership, innovation, and adaptability. The diverse experiences I encountered, particularly through the Hogan Entrepreneurs program during my Master of Business, pushed me to think critically about solving real-world problems and taught me the value of collaboration and resilience.
Working closely with exceptional faculty members in one-on-one settings played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to leadership. These interactions fostered not only a deeper understanding of business principles but also a strong sense of accountability and empathy—traits that have been integral in my roles as a Training Manager, Project Manager, and Instructional Designer.
On a personal level, the program instilled a growth mindset, encouraging me to continuously seek improvement and new opportunities for learning. This mindset has been a key factor in my success across various industries, from corporate training at Hawaiian Airlines to managing complex instructional design projects at Travelers Insurance. My education provided me with a well-rounded perspective, allowing me to blend creativity, leadership, and strategic thinking in everything I do.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Since graduating, I have been committed to continuously investing in my professional development through a combination of formal learning, hands-on experience, and personal growth. I actively use mobile and web technologies, alongside learning platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn Learning, to stay current with the latest industry trends and tools. Whether it’s mastering new instructional design methods or enhancing my leadership skills, these platforms provide valuable insights that I regularly apply in my role as a Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines.
Beyond technical skills, I have also focused on expanding my spiritual and spatial awareness. Self-improvement podcasts have become a key part of my personal development, helping me cultivate mindfulness and emotional intelligence—qualities that enhance my ability to lead and collaborate more effectively at work. Additionally, by deep diving into the work I do, I’ve developed a stronger passion for creating meaningful, engaging learning experiences for others. This continuous learning approach keeps me motivated and allows me to adapt to new challenges with confidence.

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

My education has significantly influenced both my personal goals and achievements by encouraging me to think outside the box and equipping me with the leadership skills necessary to excel. The small, close-knit campus community allowed me to form meaningful connections and early networking opportunities within Hawaii. These relationships helped me build a foundation of trust and collaboration that has been invaluable in my career, particularly in leadership roles like my current position as Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines.
Being mentored by outstanding professionals on campus not only enhanced my leadership abilities but also boosted my confidence to pursue opportunities I might not have considered before. The skills and mindset I developed gave me the courage to apply for challenging roles across diverse industries, from instructional design at HMSA to managing training programs at a major airline. My education empowered me to set ambitious goals and provided the tools to achieve them, both professionally and personally.

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. 

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

I went to Chaminade knowing that I ultimately wanted to help people with their finances. My education in accounting allowed me to build a strong foundation for understanding both business and personal finances, knowing that at the heart of both disciplines, accounting is the blood that keeps the heart beating. After I pivoted my career from tax accountant to personal financial planner due to changing career aspirations, my accounting experience sharpened my eyes to be able to delve deeper into my client’s financial situations. 

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you? 

Coming from a high school class of a few hundred students to a very intimate classroom setting of 10-15 accounting students is what encouraged me to grow into the confident person I am today, as my voice was not drowned out by others. Due to the more intimate classroom sizes, the cohort of accounting students I befriended are the relationships I hold dearly today. Also, as a two-year participant in the Hogan Entrepreneurial program, I learned the importance of being a self-starter and an advocate for myself in life. 

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

Chaminade’s service-oriented and purpose-led education is what inspired me to become a financial advisor in the first place. Beyond my own socio-economic status, I was exposed to a spectrum of individuals who had financial issues through the service learning projects and internships I was able to participate in. This experience not only humbled me, but it also ignited a passion to help others become financially independent and knowledgeable. 

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Beyond Chaminade, I also became a Certified Financial Planner^TM  and Certified Exit Planning Advisor^TM, to become the best version of myself. These designations allowed me to further refine my expertise in personal financial planning and business exit planning strategies to be a strategic advisor for my clients. 

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

My career at Edward Jones is an entrepreneurial endeavor in itself.  It’s awesome to see how my education and experience have led me to work and live within the West Oahu community. Having the knowledge and opportunity to help my family, friends and our community are life achievements that I am very proud of.

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

During my time at Chaminade, I learned so much about the connection between the body and mind. Since we were required to take the Stress-Management course at the beginning of the master’s program, I believe this set us up for success. It allowed us to understand ourselves better when we start to feel a sense of fatigue within school or our future careers. 

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you? (can be academically or socially)

My time at Chaminade, specifically in my master’s program, there were a lot of significant moments. The program really allowed for us to dive deeper into our own past traumas, our personal issues and family issues, which may need to be seen from an alternate approach or different lens. With this, the impact allowed me to heal, grow, face my life challenges, and be the best version of myself to help support our communities. 

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

Chaminade really supported the personal growth of students. This program was designed to help us get to the root of our internal possible issues and to find our internal compass. My attitude or perspective on life and toward future clients were shaped by Chaminade’s amazing professors. They spent a lot of time explaining concepts and going deep into each course. Learning the differences between personalities, traumas and diagnosis all helped support my internal growth. 

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Since graduating this past May, I have continued to take educational courses that are more specific to my own therapeutic style, which include Yoga Therapy, Vagus Nerve activation, Trauma-Informed Somatic Movement, and other personal studies that interest me and provide growth for my personal private practice. 

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

Chaminade influenced my personal goals and achievements by supporting me from the very beginning. I have my Associate Arts in Business and bachelor’s in Psychology with Chaminade. Since I’ve always had so many great experiences here, I pursued my master’s with Chaminade. The process to get where I am today was solely between my motivation to help the communities and Chaminade rooting for me the entire time. The professors truly supported us and highlighted our positive qualities, while supporting us in areas that may have needed growth. The feeling of non-judgment and understanding was felt and heard during my time at Chaminade, and I am forever grateful. 

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

Attending Chaminade allowed me to experience working in two very diverse fields: forensics and admissions. As a Forensic Sciences student, I was able to gain skills in scene investigation, evidence collection and analysis, research and many other areas of forensics. I also got professional experience through my internship with the Honolulu Medical Examiner Office. Concurrently, I was an Admissions Student Ambassador. I gave campus tours, conducted calling campaigns, participated in fairs, and learned about the admission profession. Thanks to Chaminade’s close-knit community, I was also able to form meaningful mentor-mentee relationships with the faculty and staff. They recognized my strengths and provided me with guidance as I was searching for a career post-graduation. Being able to learn from their experiences and lean on them when I have questions has made all the difference as I continue to grow professionally.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you, either academically or socially?

When I started senior year, I had a lot on my plate. In addition to school and my jobs as an ambassador and TA, I had student government, an internship and the realization that I was graduating in less than a year. As an overachiever, I was used to being heavily involved, and I wanted to ensure that I put forth 150% of my energy into all things. As the semester progressed, I began to feel overwhelmed, and it was hard to find moments to relax. If I had to give up something, I knew it had to be student government, but I was scared to disappoint the people who wanted me there. I remember mustering up the courage to talk with the staff advisors at the time, Joseph Granado and Andrew Ancheta II. They had always had my best interests at heart and acknowledged all the work I had put into my position as Executive Vice President and the Student Senate. They helped me understand that it was OK to put myself first, especially if it meant prioritizing my well-being. Throughout my life, I had always been ready to put aside myself to make others happy but they, along with many other people from the Chaminade community, helped me realize that I deserved 150% of my energy too.

How did your Chaminade education shape your perspective and personal growth?

One of the biggest ways in which my education at Chaminade shaped my perspective is by showing me that it’s OK to change your path and goals. I’ve always been adaptable except when it came to my goals. My tendency was to pick a path and stick to it. Being surrounded by others who had major shifts in their career paths while at Chaminade encouraged me to be fine with the idea of change. Talking with my mentors and advisors helped me to recognize my strengths and passions, leading me to the career I’m in now. I’ve grown to believe that, if I am doing what I am passionate about, I am on the right path. Going through life means discovering where you should be, and I’m thankful that attending Chaminade helped me realize that.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

I jumped into my career as an Admission Counselor less than a month after graduation. During my first year, I learned about a highly selective admission process, was trained in outreach and yield efforts, and got to know students from all over the country. I’ve also taken advantage of professional development opportunities that are open to admission professionals. In August, I attended the Summer Admission Institute which is designed for first and second year admission counselors. Here, I learned from seasoned professionals about their experiences and best practices for working in this field. I’ve also attended two conferences so far, the Western Association for College Admission Counseling and QuestBridge Conference, where I met with colleagues from other institutions, high schools and organizations to learn about how we can best collaborate to help high school students through their college search and application journey. As I move through my career, I know that I will continue to learn something new every day and grow professionally.

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

Being a first-generation student, Chaminade was essential to achieving my goal of attending and graduating college. Growing up, I didn’t have much guidance when it came to continuing my education after high school. All I knew was that I had to get into a good school and graduate. Looking back, I recognize that Chaminade was the best place for me to attend. I loved the small class sizes, weekly events and welcoming community that I was surrounded by every day. My experience helped me understand what it means to go to college. It’s more than just an education. You’re going for an experience as well. Working in the admission office and sharing my story with prospective students showed me how much I loved helping them find their “fit.” The summer before my senior year, while working with the Harvard Summer School Pre-College Program, was when I decided that that’s what I wanted to do when I graduated. I committed to my goal of encouraging a college-going culture among high school students. Thanks to the guidance of the faculty and staff at Chaminade, I was hired by the Office of Undergraduate Admission at Stanford where I get to pursue a career that is aligned with my personal goal.

How did your Chaminade education contribute to your professional success?

Although I went straight to graduate school after Chaminade, my degree in criminal justice from the University was key to the launch of my career in public service. The internships I did while getting my Master of Public Administration were all in the criminal justice sector. My coursework at Chaminade was what made me competitive when I applied for them, and that also allowed me to do well in them, which created other opportunities.

My first job with the City of New York was tracking management indicators for the City’s juvenile justice agency. The agency then hired me as a budget analyst, and soon I was hired by the City’s Budget Office to provide budget oversight for multiple criminal justice agencies. My initial success at the Budget Office had a lot to do with a solid understanding of the criminal justice system as a foundation. We relied on our knowledge of how the entire system interacts, as much as we relied on public finance concepts and financial systems to help allocate resources to the City’s criminal justice agencies effectively. From there I have branched out into other public policy areas, but I am thankful that Chaminade gave me the foundation I needed to get started.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you, either academically or socially?

I had the rare experience of having two different views of student life at Chaminade. I started Chaminade as an active duty Marine, taking classes on base while stationed at Kaneohe Bay. I did that for three years and earned an associate degree. When my enlistment was ending, I realized that if I became a full-time student, I could earn my bachelor’s degree in one year. I left the Marine Corps, enrolled full-time, and moved into the dorms as a senior. I am so glad that I stayed to do the senior year as a civilian student on island. Although it was only one of the four years living on the island, it made me love Hawaii and Oahu even more.

The professors were very giving with their time and advice, which I appreciated as I started to consider the next steps after graduating. I also enjoyed being exposed to island life as a student and civilian. I loved taking the bus around town, running to Waikiki Beach and back, and nothing can beat Marine Biology labs at the beach (eating poke afterwards).

How did your Chaminade education shape your perspective and personal growth?

Having grown up in New York City, I had been exposed to a diverse group of people. But my time at Chaminade exposed me to a higher level of understanding of diversity and a more engaging cross-cultural exploration. Specifically, I enjoyed interacting with so many cultures from the Pacific Rim. Whether it was trying new foods at student event potlucks or going to karaoke with Samoan classmates, I enjoyed it all. How I use that today is to try to connect with everyone I meet on a unique level. Each interaction I have is an opportunity to be part of someone else’s journey or to make them part of mine.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Right after graduating Chaminade, I moved back to New York and went to New York University for a Master of Public Administration. I was leaning towards the administrative side of criminal justice, but I did not have anything specific in mind yet. I knew that it would complement my bachelor’s degree well, give me more career options and expand my professional network.

Since getting my MPA, I have taken various certificate-based classes and attended conferences. However, I would say much of my professional development has come from networking within the field, and the help of mentors and colleagues who were generous with their time and knowledge. Whenever I can, I try to pay it forward by being generous with what I know and helping others achieve their own professional goals anyway I can.

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

My education at Chaminade launched my career into public and nonprofit work. I was able to work my way up from analyzing criminal justice data to being an assistant dean and chief financial officer at a law school. My time at Chaminade came when I needed ways to process changes in my life. The way I did that was to learn how to set short-term and long-term goals. Attending Chaminade and getting my associate degree was a short-term goal when I arrived on base, which was part of my longer-term goal of getting a bachelor’s degree. My achievements today are because I learned then to set goals, work towards those goals, check-in periodically, and set new goals after meeting the old ones.