keep going A reason to
First generation graduates say anxiety and the loss of a loved one motivated them to achieve BY LISI TIAFAU
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espite the heartbreak of losing a loved one and missing home, two Western Samoan students shared they found courage through family and friends to keep moving forward and graduate. Success through sacrifice “If you have dreams and goals, go for them and trust your instincts,” said Asaua Tanuvasa, a senior majoring in math education. Students should dream big, do what makes them happy and be themselves, she remarked. When she began her first semester, Tanuvasa said she felt overwhelmed. She explained, “I was very homesick. I missed home so much, but I had my parents and family encouraging me to stay strong.” During Tanuvasa’s second semester, her mother fell ill and passed away, she shared. “I couldn’t focus on school or think about anything. All I wanted was to go back home and give up on school.” Every year, students go through similar experiences, shared Tanuvasa.
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Losing a parent is never easy, she said, but despite her mother’s passing, she gained courage to continue school and honor the sacrifices her mother made for her. “When I called home when I first came to school, my mother would give me a speech of encouragement. She was my inspiration,” Tanuvasa said. These words of encouragement gave her a fighting spirit to never give up, she said. Tanuvasa’s husband, Maulalo Jr. Fesolai, a student spouse also from Samoa, said, “I am proud of my wife.” Being away from her family for four years was not easy, he explained, but she has made it. Tanuvasa said, “I left for my mission in 2014 until 2016, then again left home for BYU–Hawaii the beginning of 2017.” She added she returned home to be sealed in the Apia Samoa Temple on Dec. 22, 2017. After she was married, the couple flew back to Hawaii together to finish school. Fesolai said, “We have been happily married for three years and
counting.” When times were rough, Fesolai said his wife never gave up and added he works to support and help her in any way he can. Fesolai expressed he would take care of household chores and make dinner so his wife would have time to focus on her assignments. “She’s hardworking, a fighter and a devoted person. When she grieves for her mother, I am always there,” he shared. Fesolai offered advice to married couples at BYUH. He said, “Help your spouse in any way you can. Give them the time to focus on their assignments. Lend a shoulder when they need it. In the end, it’ll all be worth it.” As the first in her family to attend and graduate from college, Tanuvasa said, “I am glad I made the decision to attend BYU–Hawaii and to stay. I am satisfied with my achievements. They are dedicated to my parents for all the sacrifices they made for me.” To be the first to graduate from her family with a degree is not only an achievement for her, but also for her family. Being the first in
