Started in 2012, the Engineering Student Ambassador (ESA) program was developed to increase recruitment and retention at the UHM College of Engineering. ESAs are undergraduate students trained to engage in STEM outreach to K-12 students and work with industry partners by planning and coordinating events throughout the year. This program provides our ESAs valuable public speaking and leadership training as they pursue a career in engineering, and sparks excitement about our college – and the field of engineering at large – with Hawaiʻiʻs youth.
We encourage you to reach out to the ESA team to schedule a presentation for your school or request assistance with your upcoming STEM-related event. They may be reached via email at engsamb@hawaii.edu or phone at (808) 956-0776.
Rhea Mae Arellano
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2026
Hometown: Waialua, Hawaiʻi
High School: Waialua High and Intermediate School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I decided to become an engineering major in the seventh grade because I favored my math and science classes since elementary school. From seventh to twelfth grade, I participated in VEX and FIRST Robotics, and I enjoyed the hands-on aspect of engineering. I love designing and creating solutions that solve various challenges!
Why you selected UH: I first wanted to attend college out of state. After some thinking, I decided to attend UH Mānoa because it was my most cost-effective option. UH Mānoa also provides opportunities similar to what I could find outside of the state and allows me to stay close to home while giving back to my community.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: In my free time, I love watching k-dramas, spending time with my friends and family, and trying new food. In school, I am part of the Mānoa Scholars Club, the Society of Women Engineers, and the UH Band! I’m also a part-time robotics mentor for my high school in Waialua.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: I enjoy the opportunities and resources that the engineering program offers. From engineering student organizations to VIP projects, there are a lot of opportunities to get involved in the College of Engineering.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: Take advantage of all the opportunities and resources provided to you. Be confident in yourself and everything you do, push yourself and try new things. It allows you to learn and grow as a person! And don’t forget to take breaks when you need them. Your academics are important, but so is your mental and physical well-being!
Jenny Brown
Major: Electrical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2026
Hometown: Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
High School: Kalani High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I entered college without expecting to pursue engineering due to my limited math skills. However, my mentors, primarily math
professors, at community college, taught me to develop a growth mindset and embrace failure. Trying out an engineering project on a whim ignited my passion for the design process. Pursuing engineering has been highly rewarding, constantly motivating me to persevere and bounce back when faced with difficulties. Through experience and time both within and outside my field, looking back I wouldn’t trade engineering for anything else.
Why you selected UH: I chose to attend UH Mānoa because of its support system. As a local, I value the connection to my home, and the universityʻs strong community engagement and valuable resources make it the perfect environment to pursue my career goals and help me succeed as a student.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: I enjoy engaging in ecological and conservation initiatives that allow me to be outside with people and make a positive impact on the environment. To unwind and relax, I regularly practice yoga. I am involved in The Engineers Council at the University of Hawaiʻi (ECUH) and the Horticulture Society.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: What I love most about my program are the amazing people I get to connect with. The community here is filled with interesting and passionate individuals who make my college experience so much more vibrant and rewarding.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: Don’t forget to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and keep things in perspective when you find yourself caught up in the stresses of school. It’s easy to lose sight of your motivation for pursuing engineering, but remember that every step you take is an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Investing in a strong support network and fostering healthy habits will be some of your best tools to ensure your success and well-being in the long run.
Noah Hu
Major: Electrical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2027
Hometown: Kāneʻohe, Hawaiʻi
High School: Hawaiʻi Baptist Academy
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: At first, I wanted to major in economics and eventually go into law school. However, I found economics to be a bit boring, and realized I would have to read and write way too much to get through law school. So naturally, I pivoted to engineering in my senior year since I always enjoyed math, science and problem solving.
Why you selected UH: I selected UH because it allowed me to stay close to home, as well as keep in close contact with many of my friends. Plus once I learned to drive, I never wanted to give up that newfound freedom by moving to the mainland with no car.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: In my free time I enjoy playing the piano, learning more about audio engineering, and hanging out with friends.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: The thing I enjoy most about the College of Engineering is the many projects available to students. When I was choosing a project, I was presented with so many options, all of which would give me real-world experience and skills that I could use in the workforce.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: My advice to any incoming students is to always be on the lookout to meet new people. Almost every new student attending UH Manoa is in the same boat as you, looking for a new group of friends. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and form connections on day one. Your peers will be your greatest resource when trying to learn your coursework.
Skyler Ikeda
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: December 2027
Hometown: Waikele, Hawai’i
High School: Pearl City High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I knew I wanted to become an engineer when I was in the 2nd grade when I tried Lego® robotics and loved it! From there I joined every STEAM related extracurriculars possible from Seaperch, Science Olympiad, and Robotics. I decided to pursue mechanical engineering to learn the fundamentals of how machines work and so I would be able to build prosthetic devices to help children who require such services and to give them a better quality of life.
Why you selected UH: I wanted to stay on-island since this is where I grew up. I am also a very family oriented person and a lot of my family lives on Oahu. It was also the best option for me financially to avoid taking out student loans and to still receive a great education in a place that I love.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: Binging Grey’s Anatomy and crocheting is a way I love to destress and relax! I also love going on picnics and walks. I am pretty competitive at times so I am constantly trying to beat my previous day step count. When I have enough motivation to clean up after I am done, I make the absolute best chicken katsu ever!
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: I love the people here! I love meeting new people, trying new things and I have learned so much both academically and socially!
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” -Michael Scott. Take a chance and just go for it! Even if it might seem scary at first, or if it is out of your comfort zone, you should try everything at least once. Join as many clubs and organizations as possible and really put yourself out there. Have fun and be safe.
Ethan Kang
Major: Computer Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2027
Hometown: Kāneʻohe, Hawai’i
High School: Kailua High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I always enjoyed working with Computers, being fascinated by how we’re able to build something so complex, and yet be able to connect with people around the world. Even though I always knew this is what I wanted to pursue as my career, it wasn’t until I applied to UH Mānoa that I wanted to become an Engineering major. I actually wanted to study for a degree in Computer Science however, I thought pursuing a Computer Engineering degree would open more possibilities for me instead.
Why you selected UH: I originally was going to study at University of Maryland Global Campus in Japan, however, I realized that being far away from home may not have been what I thought I wanted. Which is why I decided to apply to UH Mānoa to not only be closer to home, but to still be able to hang out with my friends and family.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: I enjoy hanging out with friends, whether it’s when we’re cooking, walking around Ala Moana, or even just talking on campus. I also like learning new things such as fishing or how to play the piano.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: I enjoy the many activities and clubs the College of Engineering offers, making sure that they provide students with all the tools they need to succeed.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: Step outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s by talking to new people or even joining a club or event, this is the time to figure out what you wanna do for the rest of your life. Even though college may be intimidating or even stressful at times, there’s guaranteed someone who can give you advice or even help you figure everything out. Take advantage of the fresh start you have. Who knows, maybe you’ll make new friends along the way.
Joy Maehara
Major: Electrical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2025
Hometown: Honolulu, Hawai’i
High School: Hawai’i Baptist Academy
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I always drifted more to the math and science topics since elementary. So once I took Physics and Calculus courses in high school, Engineering became the perfect and ideal pathway for me. Furthermore, technology and electronics are constantly evolving which makes it a very interesting field.
Why you selected UH: UH Mānoa was the most cost effective option for me, while also providing all the benefits and opportunities that mainland universities offer, but at the comfort of home!
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: I enjoy outdoor activities such as going to the beach and hiking with friends, and also cooking, baking, and trying new food places!
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: I enjoy the environment and community that the college of engineering creates for students. The people I met are really welcoming, and I enjoy the type of coursework such as hands-on labs.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: Take advantage of every opportunity. You never know what might come your way, so don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zones!
Cody Nakamura
Major: Electrical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: 2027
Hometown: Waipio, Hawai’i
High School: Pearl City High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I decided to become an engineering major in my sophomore year. I loved math and science throughout middle and high school. I also did robotics from 7th to 12th grade, and I enjoyed problem solving in a team environment while figuring out how things work. I also liked seeing how various electronic and mechanical elements come together to create a working robot. These experiences made me realize that engineering was a way to foster my problem solving and creative skills, so I chose to major in Electrical Engineering.
Why you selected UH: I chose UH Mānoa because it offered me opportunities to grow both personally and academically while still remaining at home.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: I enjoy going to the beach, cooking, and playing video games. I also mentor my high school’s robotics team in Pearl City.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: I enjoy the opportunities the engineering program has exposed me to. It allowed me to meet many new people and learn a wide variety of things.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: Don’t be afraid to say “Why not”. There’s so much out there to do in college and specifically in the college of engineering. While studying hard is important, don’t be afraid to try something new while you’re in college.
Brandon Pang
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2025
Hometown: Kailua, Hawaiʻi
High School: Kamehameha Kapālama High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I decided to become an engineering major because I was always good with science and math courses in high school. When I was a child my favorite toys were Legos and throughout my life I would always like to do handy things around the house. With my plans to join the military I want to help the military by improving its technology and keep its status as the best military in the world.
Why you selected UH: I am in the high school class of 2020 and due to COVID-19 I was having a hard time deciding on what school to attend. I picked UH because they had a plan laid out for me unlike the other schools I was accepted to. They were clear on what they wanted to do in terms of online, hybrid or in person. UH extended their commitment date unlike the other schools so this showed great management by the school. Knowing that management was good I picked UH because I could trust them when it came to executing things in hard times.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: In my extra time I usually like to do projects around the house. I like using machines and with the pandemic the last 1.5 years I have had the time to try everything around the house from car mechanics to pressure washing, cutting the grass, and painting.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: The one thing that I enjoy most about the college so far is how they have managed online school. Since I am only a freshman going into sophomore year I believe that the only thing I can really talk about is management. The college of engineering has adapted quickly to the new online school environment and they still are carrying out what they need to do.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: The one thing I would tell the new students is to meet with your advisors. Being lost my freshman year advising really helped me with my plan and guided me through it as semesters went by. I also got motivated and had a purpose instead of taking random classes not knowing if I had to be in them or not.
Chloe Sabado
Major: Electrical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2025
Hometown: Stockton, California
High School: Sierra High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: After a few days of being enrolled as a nursing major, I realized that engineering was a better fit as it allows me to creatively employ both my math and science skills.
Why you selected UH: Despite it being 2,500 miles away from my home, I chose UH because the distance allows me to grow as an individual as it challenges my independence and adaptability skills.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: In my free time, I like to crochet and weight lift.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: My favorite part of the College of Engineering would be the hands on labs and projects that are available to its students.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: My advice for prospective students would be to find a healthy balance between your social, academic, and personal life because your college experience is what you make of it!
Joshua Samonte
Major: Computer Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2025
Hometown: Honolulu, HI
High School: Kamehameha Kapālama High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: Since I was little I have always had an interest in building things and a curiosity for how things worked, especially technology. My freshman year of high school I took my first CAD (computer aided design) class and it made me really consider engineering. But it was only after taking a computer science class my junior year, I really saw the versatility and possibilities technology had. From there I knew I wanted to go into computer engineering.
Why you selected UH: Personally I wanted to go to the mainland for college and experience life out of Hawai’i for a bit. However, I was very blessed to receive a scholarship to come to UH Mānoa and made the decision to stay a lot easier. Though I originally wanted to go away I am 100% happy I stayed here. My ultimate goal as an engineer is that I want to use what I learn to help make Hawaii a better place especially sustainably. Selecting UH allowed me to get the best of both worlds, I can pursue my ambitions as a computer engineer and still do the things I love like being outdoors and surfing here at home.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: For fun I like to be outdoors and just being active. I usually spend my free time surfing or going to the gym. Nonetheless, I really enjoy relaxing and spending time with friends and family.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: The thing I enjoy most about the college is probably the people. You meet a lot of people from different walks of life and backgrounds. However, almost everyone I meet is very friendly and it seems like everyone wants each other to succeed.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: Believe in yourself. A lot of the time you may think you are far behind compared to everyone else but really the majority of the people are probably in the same boat as you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your peers, everyone is pretty friendly and it’s a great way to meet people. Get out of your comfort zone and try new things. You’ll learn new things about yourself and find new things you like. Lastly is to find a balance, of course you need to work hard and study for your classes but be sure you are enjoying life and working on different aspects of your life as well, not just school.
Elizabeth Talioaga
Major: Electrical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2025
Hometown:Pearl City, Hawaiʻi
High School: Waipahu High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I have always favored my STEM classes and I love to build and create. Once I was in highschool, being in the Electronics technology pathway really established my interest in engineering. I found the theory really interesting and loved the hands on aspect.
Why you selected UH: I felt like UH Mānoa was the best fit for me because of the friendly and welcoming environment and amazing academic programs. I want to go into renewable energy and I am very passionate about helping to take care of the Earth. I feel that UH Mānoa is one of the best places to do this. Most importantly, I am able to stay home and give back to my community.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: I am a member of the UH Band! I have played at various athletic events and in a concert band.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: I enjoy learning new things about my field of engineering. The courses and content are very comprehensive so I know once I graduate I will be prepared to enter my field.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: The College of Engineering and UH Mānoa in general can be a great support system. If you are ever unsure, there are advisors, professors, and mentors that will be there to help you. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others. There are so many resources that the College of Engineering provides its students.
Micah Zeller
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Anticipated Graduation: May 2025
Hometown: Pearl City, Hawaiʻi
High School: Pearl City High School
When and how you decided to become an Engineering major: I decided to become an Engineering major during my Freshman year of high school because I always found myself to be more interested in math and science. I enjoyed the problem solving aspect of the work and analyzing issues while finding the most efficient solutions.
Why you selected UH: I chose to attend UH Mānoa because it was the smartest financial choice that still provided me with a great education. Additionally, staying home would allow me to be near my family and enjoy all the fun family events that I would have missed had I left the island.
What you do for fun, and any extracurricular activities: I enjoy spending time with my family, going to the beach, hiking, and lifting.
What you enjoy most about your program/the college: I enjoy being surrounded by my cohort. Everyone is very willing to help one another so we can all succeed.
Any advice to incoming/prospective students: The connections you make throughout college is just as valuable as the diploma you will receive. Pursue and be part of as many opportunities as you can.
