Aspiring kinesiologist moved by her campus experience

Rebecca Romanschi is a junior who is pursuing a degree in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. She grew up in Washington and has always aspired to become a Physician’s Assistant so she can help the community through healing. This is an excerpt from her letter to donors.

I chose the UH Mānoa campus because I saw it as an opportunity to obtain a college degree while immersing myself in an inclusive environment and community. Since arriving on campus, I have learned the true meaning of diversity and have gained a deep reverence for different cultures. I have learned what it means to truly embrace and respect a culture, and that small-mindedness is the greatest prison we can create for ourselves.

To fulfill a sport elective requirement last semester, I enrolled in Hawaiian Hula & Chant Ensemble 1 with Kumu Noenoelani Zuttermeister-Lewis. I’m very grateful for this course because I learned about the history of this island from a well-respected elder, allowing me to further immerse myself in a rich culture. This class challenged me to learn the dances to the best of my ability and I was determined to perform it graciously. This was by far one of most challenging experiences I’ve ever had.  Yet, it was very rewarding when I got to dance hula at the end of the semester in the UH Pau Hana.

Currently, I am working as a Dental Assistant, which allows me to gain experience and familiarize myself in the healthcare field. I am involved in the Pre-PA club where I have the chance to learn from other PAs, and hear about their path and the challenges along the way.

My primary focus as of now is to get all my prerequisites in order to then apply to the PA program. Last semester, I got the opportunity to shadow a healthcare provider with Hawaii Pacific Health’s Straub Benioff Medical Center in the oncology department. This broadened my interest in considering other potential specialties that I might want to pursue while also gaining more than 50 hours in shadow work.

My goal for the rest of my UH Mānoa experience is to become involved with some research project, which will allow me to further my knowledge either by learning more about microscopic organisms that can affect our daily lives or by familiarizing myself with the use of lab equipment. I believe that with some background in the lab, I will be better prepared for anything biology- or medical-related.

Lastly, I’d like to end with a piece of advice that I have carried with me and will continue to carry with me beyond graduation: observe but not absorb. To me, this means having a strong sense of self and knowing that others won’t affect your energy. It taught me to always really think before I react.

To my donors

I express my heartfelt gratitude to the donors for awarding me this scholarship. Not only is it a financial blessing but also a major encouragement to continue prioritizing my studies. This scholarship gives me hope that all this work will be worth it in the end. Thank you for your support, for I am one step closer to achieving my goals. Mahalo nui loa.