Name: Moniqueca Kaufusi
BYU–Hawaii Employee since: 2021.
My Job at BYUH is: adjunct professor in the Faculty of Business & Government.
I grew up in: Hawaii.
Did you graduate from BYUH? If so, when? Yes, in 2012.
I chose to teach at BYUH because... I love the students here, they bring diverse perspectives, humility, and ambition into the classroom. Teaching in an environment that values purpose, integrity, and global impact allows me to connect business and marketing concepts to something bigger than a job or a title.
I'm currently working on... I am continuously updating course content to reflect current market trends, digital platforms, and consumer behavior so students graduate with skills that are relevant on day one.
My favorite thing about teaching... Seeing the moment when concepts move from abstract ideas to practical tools. When students realize they can apply what they’re learning to real businesses, careers, and decisions...that’s the win!
Best advice I've ever received about teaching... Meet students where they are, then challenge them to go further. Effective teaching balances empathy with high expectations.
Students don't think I notice... Their growth over time. I notice when confidence improves, when thinking becomes more strategic, and when effort shows up consistently, even if it’s not perfect yet. It's about PROGRESS not perfection.
My advice to incoming first-year students is... Try ideas, explore interests, build relationships, and don’t be afraid to fail early! Those lessons are cheaper now than later. Network and enjoy meeting people. Build genuine friendships with students and professors.
My advice to graduating seniors is... Focus on building momentum, not finding perfection. Careers are built through experience, adaptability, and learning; your first role is just the starting point.
On Saturday mornings, you'll find me... Sleeping. A good reset sharpens the mind and refocuses the soul. Then I wake up in beast mode and get things done.
The next big trip I'm interested in... My graduation! I will graduate from GCU Arizona this year. I dedicate that trip and my degree to my late father and my grandbaby.
You'll never find me without... My laptop. I’ve been deep in my dissertation for the last three years, constantly updating my courses, working on research articles, and creating marketing courses that I teach to women around the world. My laptop is basically an extension of me!
If I could travel anywhere, I would go to... I want to visit Japan and experience the culture firsthand—and honestly, I’d love to travel to the home countries of my students. Their perspectives and stories make the world feel both bigger and more connected.
When I have 30 minutes of free time... I’m usually reading something uplifting or inspirational, checking in on the digital marketing courses I teach online, or FaceTiming my grandbaby, small moments that keep me inspired and connected.
The title of my autobiography would be... "Moxie"- because progress favors the bold and the resilient. If you know me, then you know this title is fitting.
One item on my bucket list is... Crossing the finish line and officially graduating with my doctorate degree! I have been working so hard on this, and I am excited that I am so close, I can’t wait to celebrate!
What's one thing that can instantly make your day better? When a student stays after class to share something they’ve accomplished academically or personally. Seeing their growth is the best part of teaching.
What are your hobbies, and how did you get into them? Outside of class, I teach digital marketing to women of all ages, empowering them to earn income online and build skills that keep them ahead in a rapidly changing industry. This is aligned with helping my students stay current on marketing trends and achieve real-world results.
I'm currently reading... The Book of Mormon, but this time with more purpose, more vigor, more intent. It truly makes a difference!
On Friday nights, you'll find me... At home, hanging out with my family. Home is my favorite place to be!
Tell us all the cool stuff happening... I am excited to share that I will be defending my dissertation on March 19, 2026. After years of dedicated work toward this goal, I am grateful for the opportunity to reach this important milestone. I feel both humbled and deeply appreciative for the support and opportunities that have helped me get to this point.