IN THE SCHOOL OF OCEAN AND EARTH SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY • UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI‘I AT MANOA

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ESVI REU: Earth Science on Volcanic Islands REU Program

ESVI REU Student Testimonials

• "Prior to this experience I wasn't sure whether I was fit to pursue an extensive academic career. Between dyslexia, daily migraines, and financial burdens, I wasn't sure if I should go directly into industry after getting my bachelors, pursue grad school, or if I'd even be able to finish my bachelors in the first place. After the ESVI REU experience, however, I know that I absolutely want to pursue grad school! It is because of this REU that I look forward to becoming a researcher, that I've met so many life-long role models that I look up to, and the reason I'm excited to continue my academic career."
  - 2024 ESVI REU Student


• "I now believe that I am capable of completing a master's degree and work towards a PhD. This was something that I was not confident in before but through my research experience I feel like i have gained the insight, experience, and confidence to work towards a graduate degree."
  - 2024 ESVI REU Student


• "Being able to communicate effectively with my mentor and other people in the lab helped me improved on what I need. Also my mentor set a plan out for my project and checked in on me on a daily basis. My mentor set goals for me each week to complete by the end and was accommodating if I needed the help."
  - 2024 ESVI REU Student


• "This research experience allowed me to pursue different interests in the geophysics world. I also learned new coding skills in MATLAB, and it helped hone in my problem-solving skills to challenge myself to become a better scientist. Also, this experience showed me that there are different routes to take in my major, and helped me to decide what I want to specialize in graduate school."
  - 2022 ESVI REU Student


• "The ESVI REU helped with my understanding what graduate school will look like and what research looks like. Instead of just hearing about research, I got to be an active participant in it. The NSF workshops also opened up a variety of other careers in research outside of academia that are available to me."
  - 2022 ESVI REU Student


• "This research experience made me realize that there are a load of quality people in the scientific community who will support you in your work and embedded in me the idea that I could be a successful graduate student!"
  - 2021 ESVI REU Student


• "Having participated in the REU, I feel like I am more aware of the working skills needed to pursue a career in researching the natural sciences. It has shown me what one can expect from the usual day-to-day work schedule, and the need for a team that can provide insight and perspective, or simply moral support. I enjoyed my time working with others in pursuit of our project's goal, and I am convinced that I will be able to work in the sciences competently and constructively. I look forward to pursuing a career doing research, and the prospect of graduate school thanks to the REU."
  - 2021 ESVI REU Student


• "My experience aboard the Kilo Moana cemented that I really do want to work with ROVs. I also enjoyed the interview with the Voice of the Sea tremendously and would love to work in education and outreach."
  - 2021 ESVI REU Student


• "The ESVI experience was one of the best decisions of my life. I was able to meet amazing individuals and be mentored by some of the best faculty and staff. I was able to be in one of the most amazing locations in my field while exploring different fields through stimulating field trips and workshops."
  - 2019 ESVI REU Student


• "I entered this program already anticipating an incredible educational experience, and everything about the ESVI REU still managed to exceed my expectations. Primarily, the project I completed this summer was extremely rewarding and I learned priceless skills for my future. What better way is there to learn about graduate school and become exposed to various disciplines in geology and geophysics than learning directly in the field from experts?"
  -2018 ESVI REU Student