A journey of hope Pacific Islander students share BYU–Hawaii prepares them to serve their countries and the world
Adriannah Metta (left) said BYUH has given her a greater perspective on life and Charite Hoiesi (right) said BYUH has taught her the importance of setting priorities. Photos by Ho Yin Li
BY GREG TIVLES Pacific Islander students shared they chose BYU–Hawaii because of the gospel and its resources, but the school’s diversity has expanded their perspectives. They added what they have gained from BYUH will help them better serve in their home countries. Pritus Luitolo, a sophomore from the Solomon Islands studying elementary education, emphasized she could never think
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of any wiser words than Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s words, “Education is not merely a good idea. It is a commandment.” “To graduate from an American university will almost be everything to me and my family,” she stated. Luitolo explained there are three girls from the Solomon Islands currently studying at BYUH, and to her family, her community and her country, it is already a great achievement. “We were confident at the very beginning to
study hard,” and with her parents’ support, she said she was able to attend BYUH. She chose BYUH because the facilities and resources BYUH has, she said, would help her be successful. “I cannot think of any learning resources that are lacking [on campus] like it was back home in the Solomon Islands. All I need to do is to work hard for the A grade,” she said. She emphasized the diversity of students at BYUH also allowed her to view the world from a bigger perspective.
