The Paubox Kahikina Scholarship helps Native Hawaiian students pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and Tech in general. Its purpose is to offer financial support and create a strong network for these students. The scholarship makes education more affordable and connects students with professionals, giving them valuable opportunities to learn and grow in their chosen STEM or Tech fields. This scholarship is about more than just money; it's about building a community and empowering Native Hawaiian students to succeed in STEM or Tech careers.
See also: The big ideas behind the Paubox Kahikina Scholarship
Paul Keahi was one of the Paubox Kahikina Scholarship 2023 recipients and is now attending the University of Oregon, studying toward a math and computer science degree. Here is a word from Paul:
"Aloha, my name is PK Selhorst, and I'm a 2023 Paubox Kahikina Scholarship recipient. I just finished my first year of college at the University of Oregon, where I'm double majoring in math and computer science while contemplating starting my physics journey, whether it's a minor or just getting involved in research. But I do want to go into physics.
Overall, my first year of college went amazing. I met so many fun and kind people while also enjoying all my classes and doing the whole college thing of going out to football games and sort of being a kid, like being outside and having no real responsibility besides school. So that was pretty fun.
Really, everything at college was amazing, and a large part of that is because of the support from scholarships like the Paubox Kahikina Scholarship. Because of this award, I was able to put some of my financial burden aside to spend more time doing things like volunteer work or research, or just being outside like a kid with my friends when we have nice weather, which isn't often. The weather out here is not terrible today, but during the winter term, it was pretty rainy and miserable, so I appreciate being able to get outside a couple of times when it is nice.
Not only did the scholarship provide me with the extra financial freedom, but it also connected me to fellow recipients and the network of Hawaiians who really want us to succeed because they have succeeded and they just want to spread the impact of the Hawaiian community.
While I was busy with the Zoom meetings and in-person meetings, I'm still grateful for Hoala for going out of his way to provide us with those opportunities to make connections, and I hope I make it to the next one, whether it's on Zoom or in person.
Overall, Mahalo to Hoala and the entire Paubox community for the opportunity and for just elevating my college experience. Aloha."
Watch: Pk Selhorst: 2024 Paubox Kahikina Scholarship Update
Read also: Paubox Kahikina STEM Scholarship Recipient 2023: Paul Keahi Selhorst