Submitted by Grace Howle on the 2022 winter session program in Hawaii sponsored by the College of Health Sciences…
Within a few days of being in Honolulu, Hawaii, I learned how different Hawaiian culture is from the other states in the United States. Prior to leaving, I researched Hawaiian history and culture, but I didn’t fully comprehend how unique it truly is. Upon arrival, I was greeted with “the aloha spirit” (sharing the essence of life, which includes compassion) and I began to see how kind and peaceful the people of this island truly are. This was clearly evident when I accidentally called my Uber to the opposite side of the airport. The driver (who was a native Hawaiian) demonstrated extreme patience with me, giving me directions as I attempted to make my way with two suitcases filled with bathing suits and way too much sunscreen to where he was waiting. To my surprise, Hawaiian hospitality didn’t end there. As we completed our daily excursions, I found that Hawaiian residents continuously displayed the “aloha spirit” through warm, genuine greetings and assistance.
After only a few days of being on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with new people, I began to feel weirdly comfortable and grateful for this experience. I have already made new, genuine friends and have learned that there is so much more to Hawaii than just the beautiful beaches and palm trees.
