From the sun-soaked shores of Fiji to the lush campus of BYU–Hawaii, Koliaci Bete, known to friends simply as Koli, embraced every opportunity the university offered. Bete graduated in winter 2025 with a degree in business management and minors in political science and communication. His journey has been one of growth, service, and discovery. Guided by his passion for helping others, he navigated academics, extracurriculars, and spiritual development with the same dedication and energy that defines his character.
BYU–Hawaii was always a dream school for Bete; he chose it not only for its academic reputation but also because it is a Christ-centered university. “I wanted a place where I could gain secular knowledge while also building my spiritual foundation and learning from others’ testimonies of the gospel,” Bete shares.
Finding his Academic Path
Bete is passionate about serving others. He tries his best every day to be a service-oriented people-person. That is why he opted for business management with an emphasis on organizational behavior and human resources as a major. Bete always wanted to have the opportunity to assist people, whether in the workplace or beyond, and address challenges they might face.
Before coming to Laie, Bete heard about other larger universities back home in Fiji; his friends and colleagues would often tell him about their daily struggles with teaching styles that didn't work for them. "At BYU–Hawaii, I found a completely different environment—one that was flexible, interactive, and supported by professors who were ready to help in any way they could," Bete stated.
Professors like Scott Springer and Moana Numanga had the most considerable influence on Bete. They pushed him to step outside his comfort zone, encouraged active participation, and made learning something Bete could enjoy.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
One of Bete's most memorable experiences was serving as a vice president in the human resource club. His role involved coordinating with his team and initiating training programs where guest speakers would provide extensive insights on management skills. Bete always tried to find ways to assist fellow students, and through that, he learned how to be a professional and the importance of continual workplace training.
Balancing everything —classes, club activities, church services, work, and volleyball—required discipline and well-thought-out regulation of schedules and priorities. Bete always kept a schedule to stay updated on all his obligations, whatever they may be. "I relied on a structured schedule and clear priorities. I set personal goals, such as maintaining my physical fitness through volleyball and investing in personal growth through campus involvement," he says. Bete always follows the motto: ‘A healthy body is a happy body’. Staying physically well strengthened him mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
Faith, Culture, and Perspective
Laie is a unique and spiritual place rich in culture, and with the Polynesian Cultural Center and temple so close to campus, Bete would often visit the temple grounds to feel peace and draw closer to the Savior, especially during difficult times. He shares, "That spiritual influence reminded me I was never alone in my struggles, I know and testify that Heavenly Father was with me every step of the way.” He often quotes his mother's favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13: 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'
Bete was always amazed and thankful for the cultural diversity of BYU–Hawaii. Learning alongside students from around the globe exposed him to new perspectives and innovative ideas, and he has gained a deeper appreciation for different ways of thinking and living.
Life After Graduation
Bete is among the few graduates completing academic training on campus and currently serves as an academic training intern in Admissions, working as a student supervisor. He oversees prospective student applications and ensures that each stage of the process is completed accurately. While working, Bete is also applying for postgraduate studies, with his sights set on BYU. He also awaits opportunities back home that align with his service goals. "I'm open to following that path as well. My approach is to ‘go with the flow’ while staying focused on growth," he shares.
Communication, openness, and the willingness to be involved are skills he practices daily at his academic training, skills he believes would carry him forward to other employment opportunities. "I've learned to make the first move when needed and to be assertive in group settings to ensure everyone is moving in the same direction." Bete states.
Advice for Current Students
Bete believes every student should make the most of every opportunity —inside and outside the classroom. He emphasizes building strong relationships with professors because they provide needed mentorship for success. "Get involved in events like the Asia Pacific Career Conference, which connects you with global organizations, and 'Empower Your Dreams,' which challenges you to showcase your innovative skills," he says.
Bete also urges students to take advantage of the career services department's resources. "Even one 30-minute session can sharpen your resume and prepare you for life after college, as it did for me," he adds. With their assistance, he beefed up his resume and CV and learned valuable skills that will give him an edge over other applicants for job opportunities.
When asked what he would do differently, Bete shared he would spend more time learning from students of other cultures and creating a bigger and better network because those connections are invaluable. As he continues onwards, his final advice to students is "focus on your priorities, but don't forget to enjoy your time here, it's an experience you'll carry for the rest of your life."