Andrew Toimoana, a senior from Tonga majoring in information technology, recently became the first foreign BYU–Hawaii student to intern in Sri Lanka, gaining hands-on experience with Multiverse Engineering, a Sri Lankan engineering and technology company. His father influenced his decision to pursue the opportunity in Sri Lanka, having previously worked with people in the country and knowing that Andrew could learn from their experience.
What began as a way to gain professional experience became an experience that strengthened his confidence, broadened his perspective, and solidified his vision for his future career.
A Place of Preparation
Toimoana credits his time at BYU–Hawaii with preparing him to succeed in any venture life offers. Reflecting on his growth since attending the university, Toimoana said that the curriculum and the integrated IWORK program helped him go from just existing to becoming a proactive person.
“The opportunity to work and go to school was something I didn’t really think much about, but looking back, I’ve grown as a person,” he said. “Mentally, I’m more mature. Before, I was just present, but now I wake up on time, I schedule things, and I’ve learned many skills. You can’t go through this school without learning these things. It’s helpful because it’s not easy. It’s great, it’s not easy.”
He pointed to his professors as a key part of that growth. “They provided great insights on how you can do all these hard things,” he said. “Time management, planning, and all these things helped me be able to do the tough things that I was faced with.”
It was during his internship that Toimoana realized how his time at BYU–Hawaii changed him as a person. He didn’t merely improve academically, but spiritually as well. It was evident during his experience in Sri Lanka; he noted, “I could see how these habits and all those changes in me helped me make the internship a success.”
The Internship
During his internship, Toimoana took on a range of responsibilities including sales and IT configuration teams, giving presentations for the company, and assisting with computer system installations. The experience convinced him that his future belongs in the IT industry.
"I went in there with little belief that I would be able to do anything, but I tried, and in the end, it was so rewarding,” he said. “I felt more confident that I could actually go further in my path in this field of IT. I came back with a clear vision of what I need to study to be able to achieve my goals.”
Feedback from his supervisors and peers reinforced that confidence. “At the end, I did a presentation, and my supervisor shared with me how impressed he was with my growth,” said Toimoana. “His feedback, including the heads of the company, told me what they really thought of me and my potential in this field.”
The company’s CEO even praised Toimoana, saying he was the first foreign intern they’d ever worked with, and that because of his performance, they plan to expand their internship program further into the Pacific.
Service & Growth
For Toimoana, the internship in Sri Lanka became more than professional experience. It showed him that the preparation, discipline, and service he developed at BYU–Hawaii could open doors far beyond campus. With a clearer vision for his future in IT, he hopes to continue using what he has learned to serve others and pursue opportunities for continued growth.
“I think everything we do here reminds me of Christ,” he said. “For example, working at the Polynesian Cultural Center, their mission and vision revolve around serving others. Even BYU–Hawaii’s mission reminds me of how important it is to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. By getting an education, we’ll be able to be better disciples and be ready to serve others.”