Seasider Stories

Celine Duffau, an assistant professor in psychology, shares about her life, pursuits, and interests.

Fall 2025 valedictorian Manuarii Tefan reflects on mentorship, initiative and the power of gratitude that shaped his BYU–Hawaii journey

As BYU–Hawaii concludes another remarkable semester, the university celebrates the accomplishments of its newest graduating class—students who have learned, served, and grown in this unique ʻāina at the crossroads of the Pacific.

Daryl Wong Snelson, a senior from Malaysia majoring in health and human science, overcomes challenges to find his calling at BYU–Hawaii.

Questioning Faith in a Land of Many Gods

Steven Kirby Tee, a junior from the Philippines majoring in music with an emphasis in vocal performance, says that coming to BYU–Hawaii was not part of a carefully mapped-out plan—it was the result of small prompts, supportive people, and a lifelong relationship with music that kept leading him forward.

Daniel DeMartini shares about his life as an assistant professor in the Faculty of Science and much more.

Every year, colleges from around the USA send their best journalism students to be a part of MediaFest, a national conference organized by the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), the Associated Collegiate Press (ACP), and the College Media Association (CMA). The conference is set up to teach aspiring journalists and to recognize their work, highlighting the best of the best in college media. Last week, BYU–Hawaii sent seven Ke Alaka’i team members, accompanied by Marketing and Communications director, Brooke Peterson, and digital communications manager, Leilani Guerrero. Ke Alaka’i has been attending the conference for the past eight years, but for several students, this was their first time.

Hope you're hungry, Seasiders! The Annual Food Fest is back again.

Hyrum Stephens' journey as a young artist, marked by resilience, creative discovery, and community, has found its stage at BYU–Hawaii, where his struggles intertwine with music's healing power.

Ameleya Kulani Uili (née Angilau), a senior from Utah majoring in business management with an emphasis in supply chain, said that her love for learning led her to BYU–Hawaii, something that was not in her original plan, but has blessed her nonetheless.

Natasha Gillette, assistant professor of EIL/TESOL shares about her life, persuits and interests.

Thrown into the Deep End

In the heart of Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, three Brigham Young University–Hawaii alumni are serving together in a remarkable way.

When Buyan-Ochir (Buyka) Khandsuren first walked into the Asia-Pacific Career Conference (APCC) at BYU–Hawaii, he never imagined it would lead to an internship with Coca-Cola in Mongolia.

Spencer Ingley, from the Faculty of Sciences, shares why he chose to teach at BYU–Hawaii, why he loves what he does, his current research projects, and advice for students.

Leonilyn Llona, a senior from the Philippines majoring in social work, found her internship in Taiwan was more than just a graduation requirement.

Aliah Flores, a senior from the Philippines double-majoring in TESOL and psychology, began planning her internship earlier this year. She knew she wanted more than classroom credit. She wanted an experience that would prepare her for life after graduation, immerse her in another culture, and test the skills she had learned at BYU–Hawaii.