Graduates express gratitude, excitement Over 350 students graduated from BYU–Hawaii April 10—the largest number to have marched at a BYUH commencement. Many of these graduates are now asking themselves the question, “now what?” Moments before graduation—in an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation— several graduates expressed their feelings about the day they had worked towards for years and their plans now that the milestone had been reached. Trijsten Leach, graduate in art from California, said, “Graduating has brought so much excitement to my life. I feel like a new person and that I’ve accomplished something.” He also mentioned another reason for his excitement, “My mom’s here to cheer me on.” “I’m so excited, finally!” said Tevita Uhi, graduate in instructional design and development and information systems from Tonga. “I never thought this day would come but I am so happy … even though I’m going to miss this place.” In regards to his future plans, Uhi said, “I’m planning to work at a TV station in Tonga.” Yesenia Arevalo, graduate in political science from Calif./Hawaii, was somewhat hesitant about the impending graduation. “I don’t really want it to happen, I’m not ready.” 8
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Arevalo will not be leaving BYUH unprepared, however. “I have an internship in Sacramento,” she said, “and I’ll be studying for the LSAT (standardized test required for entrance into law schools)—which I’ll be taking in December—and then go from there.” Some graduates have decided to stay in Hawaii, while others are returning to their home states and countries. Gabriel Figueiro, graduate in international business from Brazil, will be working locally as a
come true! When I started college, I didn’t think graduating and marriage would come at the same stage in my life.” Ashlin said she also did not originally plan on getting married before graduating college. Micah expressed his excitement as the couple moves on, “We’re beginning our journey in the world together.” Jessica Fenenbock, graduate in vocal studies from Guam, had a special guest with her at graduation as she is nine months pregnant. “I’m the second graduate in my family and my sister was the same way,” Fenenbock said. “She was nine months pregnant when she walked, it’s like a tradition.” Kellene Bjarnson, graduate in music with an emphasis in trumpet from Oregon, did more than just walk at graduation, she performed on trumpet with the University Brass Ensemble and BYU–Hawaii Concert Choir as well. Bjarnson said, “It’s cool to be able to play for [graduation] because that’s manager at a surfing school. Kit Ming Lau, what I majored in and worked for for four graduate in general music from Hong Kong, years.” will be returning to Hong Kong to do her Kale Kau‘ i, graduate in Hawaiian studies from Hawaii, was full of graditude on student teaching. graduation day. “I’m the first college graduate Several married couples graduated in my family,” Kau‘ i said. “I feel really gratetogether, including Micah Kamoe, graduate in business and psychology from Hawaii, and ful that I can represent my Hawaiian people Ashlin Kamoe, graduate in international busi- and move forward.” ness from Utah. Micah said, “It’s a dream –DU STIN GE DDE S