What's student life like at the University of Hawaii at Manoa?

I'm considering applying to the University of Hawaii at Manoa, but I'm not sure what to expect. How's the campus culture, and what are some cool things about going to school in Hawaii? Any personal experiences would be great!

The University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) offers a unique blend of island and academic culture. Strolling through campus, you'll find that it's beautifully situated among lush green hills, palm trees, and brightly colored flowers. The weather tends to be consistently warm and sunny, which supports an outdoor-oriented culture. Many students take advantage of this by studying outside, lounging at the beach between class, or participating in outdoor sports and other activities.

The campus culture promotes a sense of interconnectedness and inclusivity, with many clubs and organizations that celebrate the diverse student body. You'll find a range of clubs catering to cultural, academic, recreational, and community service interests. The school also offers several traditional Hawaiian programs, including courses in the Hawaiian language, a Hawaiian Studies program, and a Native Hawaiian Student Services program that supports the success of Native Hawaiian students.

It's not uncommon to see cultural events happening around campus or in nearby Honolulu, such as hula performances, local food festivals, or traditional Hawaiian music concerts. UH Manoa also encourages students to volunteer within the community, which is a great way to get immersed in the local culture and give back.

One unique aspect of UH Manoa is its focus on sustainability. They have instituted a whole host of environmentally-friendly initiatives and even offer majors and minors in sustainability. For students passionate about the environment, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn and be part of sustainable practices.

Being on an island, most students adopt a laid-back, "hang loose" mentality due to the slower pace of life. However, keep in mind that this relaxed attitude does not translate to academics. UH Manoa students are hard workers, and the school offers rigorous academic programs across its colleges and departments.

Just remember, while it can be wonderful to go to school in a place as beautiful as Hawaii, be prepared for its high living expenses and the possibility of feeling isolated from mainland activities. Additionally, it can be challenging to adjust to the time difference, especially if you're from the mainland, as it might be harder to communicate with family and friends in different time zones.

But these challenges can be balanced out with the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that come with living in Hawaii – from exploring the island's breathtaking landscapes to experiencing a unique multicultural environment in the middle of the Pacific.