Voyager Athletics

Senior Ki‘ilani Arruda

You have attended Island School since kindergarten, what about this unique situation would you like to share? What will you take away from this experience? Having been at Island School for 13 years, I have seen our school evolve and expand. However, one thing that has not changed is our school’s devotion to their students’ futures. Growing up at Island School has not only enriched me academically, but also has taught me the benefits of being a part of such a close knit community. Since we are a relatively small school, I feel that people here want to get to know one another. Learning comes naturally when teachers are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge with the students. Teachers at Island School genuinely care about the students. Even as a senior, I would still visit my teachers I had in elementary school. Island School has not only prepared me to thrive in an academically rigorous environment, but also how to succeed further in life and to pursue the passions students have outside of academics. In high school particularly, I sang in our choir, participated in student government, and played multiple sports. Island School has prepared me to go to college and expand my horizons.

Why did you decide to compete in pageants? Can you describe your journey thus far? The first pageant I competed in was the Miss Kaua‘i Teen USA 2019 pageant. I started competing in pageants because I wanted to try something new and step outside of my comfort zone. A lot of the previous titleholders have accomplished great things in their community and continued on to become educated, successful women, like Island School alumna Stephanie Steuri, Miss Hawaii 2014. Competing in pageants and going on to win Miss Hawai‘i Teen USA has been a life changing experience and I have learned so much from my journey so far. One of the most important things that I have learned so far, is the amount of support that people have given me throughout my journey. I am lucky to have such a great support system that wants to see me succeed. Representing Hawai‘i at Miss Teen USA is a great honor and responsibility that I am lucky to have, and I hope to make my home proud.

What was your platform and what inspired you to promote it? My platform is autism awareness. My brother was diagnosed with autism at a young age. Being nonverbal, everyday tasks can be difficult for him, but he proceeds to make improvements everyday. Having witnessed him grow so much in the past 3 years inspires me to overcome the obstacles I face in my life. Over the summer, I volunteered at the Autism Clinic, and it was one of the most enriching experiences. Autism is one title that labels thousands of different stories, and with this knowledge, I hope to bring awareness that people are much more than the labels they are given. I believe that being aware and educated about autism goes hand in hand with building a world that is accepting and inclusive for all people.

Voyager to Miss Teen Hawai‘i

Can you tell us about winning Miss Teen Hawai‘i USA 2020? My journey to becoming Miss Hawai‘i Teen USA has been one of self growth and understanding. A lot of mental and physical preparation was put into preparing for the competition. The three categories are interview, active wear, and evening gown. However, for me the most crucial part of my process was not practicing my onstage walk or finding the perfect dress: It was becoming comfortable being my most genuine, authentic self that I could be. In my opinion, the biggest misconception about pageant girls is that they are mainly judged by their looks. Contrary to popular belief, pageant girls are incredibly well-rounded and intelligent women making positive impacts on others. The pageant that I competed in, Miss Hawai‘i Teen USA, is under the Miss Universe Organization. Their motto is “Confidently Beautiful,” which to me means having a positive attitude towards yourself and others. Later this year, I will be competing at Miss Teen USA.

What are your plans for after graduation? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? After graduating from Island School, I plan to major in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. After obtaining my master’s degree, I hope to continue my education at medical school to become a cosmetic dermatologist. In 5 years, I hope to be starting medical school on the mainland. However, when I’m done with schooling and residency, I hope to move home so I can give back to the community that has incessantly supported me.

How has financial aid affected your academic and personal journey? What would you like to say to the generous donors that give to Island School’s Financial Aid program? Financial aid has helped me and my family tremendously. My mom always told me that the most important thing she wanted for me is to get a good education and go to college. I appreciate the generous donors that want to continue to support people of all backgrounds who want to have the opportunity to pursue education at Island School but might not have the financial means to do so. Without their support, I would not have been able to create the experience that I did at Island School. My experience has encouraged me to not let anything stop me from pursuing my goals and fulfilling my dreams. I continue to work hard because I appreciate the opportunity I have. Our small island is filled with bright children who want to do big things, and I hope that they can find inspiration in themselves to pursue their dreams like I have.