Aloha from Hawaii! From June 20 to July 26, 2025, hosted by the College of Tropical Agricultural and Human Resources (CTAHR), students from Wells International School participated in the12th Annual Summer Science camp at the University of Hawaii. Many of these students are entering their final years of high school, this experience offered a valuable glimpse into university life. For others, it even opened up the possibility of pursuing further studies in the United States.
During the program, students were assigned to various labs within CTAHR, where they explored different research topics alongside university students and mentors. This experience allowed them to deepen their understanding of university level research. Beyond academics, students also had the opportunity to explore some of the cultural aspects of life in Hawaii. Some of the highlights included hiking Kokohead trail, surfing at Waikiki beach, as well as snorkeling at the North Shore in Hawaii’s natural environment. These experiences allowed students to appreciate their surroundings and reflect on their role in preserving these ecosystems as a global citizen. The students also visited the UH Center for Hawaiian studies, where they took part in a cultural and service learning experience. Rather than learning solely in a classroom setting, they engage in hands-on experiences as they work with Taro plants. Participating in various activities helped them learn more about Hawaiian culture.
Students also had an opportunity to learn more about themselves, being far away from home, many students developed a greater sense of independence, adaptability, and confidence. The Science Summer Camp not only strengthened students’ academic interests but also helped them grow as individuals. Preparing them for their next step towards university life and beyond.
A word from each student’s reflection summarizing this trip. Hayeon Kim (Class of 2026) noted “I always thought labs were tedious and boring, but I learned that with the right topic and right people, labs can be fun both technically and socially.” Punyisa (Pun) Sawaekwongpra (Class of 2026), who also gained a perspective from her lab, said “I learned that it is very attainable to join a lab and receive funding for your work. This idea completely changed my view on realistically being able to go abroad to learn, as now I have a rough idea of what I may be able to achieve financially as a university student.” While there are many lab experiences that we gain as young adults, there are also many more that we learned about ourselves and the real world. Regina Jiang (class of 2026) highlighted the aspects beyond the lab reflecting it as “Now, the prospect of living alone (as in away from family) for college doesn’t seem quite as daunting. More than education, I feel that this [science camp] has equipped me with more advanced life skills than I previously had.” Theo An Rousseau (class of 2026) on the research path reflected “The most important insight that I gained from this experience was understanding that ‘real’ research is not (and cannot be) the product of a single researcher.” As everyone gained experience working in the lab, Zac Adiann (class of 2027) has provided a valuable insight that sums up this entire trip: “I felt that each day spent in Hawaii aimed to foster individual growth in many fields. Whether that be physical growth, mental growth, relationship growth, or scientific growth, each was achieved.”
Mahalo to Dr. Ray, Dr. Katherine, PI (Mentors), UH students, Mr. Corey, and to my peers who joined me on this trip making it an unforgettable experience.
Written by Pawarisa (Ellie) Jriyasetapong, class of 2026
Caption: Visit to CDFA – graduate of UH CTAHR Amber Tateno-Bisel took us on a tour of California Department of Food and Agriculture Hawaii Fruit Fly Rearing Facility in Waimanalo, Oahu, HI. It taught students about the application of science, and its role in supporting healthy food production systems.
