Back row: Nick, Kyra, Keanu. Front row: Sonja, Mariko, Makenzy, Skye. Not in picture: Caleb, Mattia, Stephanie.
GES Peers
The GES Peers comprises GES students of junior and senior standing and who are scholars as well as active contributors to the field of science and the community. The purpose of the GES Peers is to use their own personal GES experience to provide advice and guidance to new GES students. GES Peers are expected to assist in GES 100 and in events such as the GES Symposiums, orientations, and other events as necessary. GES Peers may occasionally organize fundraisers for social events such as Game Night and seasonal events such as Secret Santa. View the calendar to see what events are on the horizon!
As a group, the GES Peers represent the GES student body and serve as a liaison between the GES Program and students. Serving as a GES Peer is an excellent way to make friends and forge relationships, and hone your leadership and communication skills. If you need advise or want to chat, don’t be shy – reach out to your Peers via the form below! If you are writing to a specific Peer, make sure to address their name in your message.
Complete this GES Peers Application if you are interested in serving as a Peer! We welcome GES majors who have at least two full semesters left in the GES Program, and a genuine interest in bonding with fellow GES students, planning social and community events, and mentoring younger students. To maintain healthy school-work-life balance for everyone, we ask students with leadership roles in SOEST Club to refrain from applying; non-leader members of SOEST Club are encouraged to apply!
Tyra Arends ’25
I am an international student from the west coast of Canada who grew up caring for the earth, and admiring the ocean.
My particular interest involve conservation science, and climate change. Thus, I am currently researching the population genetics of a thermally resilient coral at the Hawaiʻi institute of Marine Biology. Also, I have been volunteering on numerous research cruises to develop fundamental skills in oceanography, and gain first-hand learning experiences. I am hopeful that the work that I do in the future will make a meaningful impact on the trajectory of our planet through climate change. Specifically, that I can make an impact in the field of oceanography.
In my free time, you’ll likely find me making seashell necklaces, free diving, surfing, or hiking with friends.
Effective Spring 2024.
Jiselle Banuelos ’25
Hello my name is Jiselle Banuelos and I am a third year student at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. I’m studying Global Environmental Science. After my undergraduate years, I will finish in the graduate program for Public Health. I was born in sunny Honolulu, Hawaiʻi but I for the most part grew up in San Diego, California. I am also a proud UH Rainbow Warrior Dancer. Outside of dance you’ll often find me studying in the library or reading. I enjoy cooking, listening to music, and going to the gym. If you ask my friends, they would describe me as an outgoing, friendly, and generous person. I like to consider myself a responsible, organized, and determined individual as well. Overall I’m really excited to begin working with the GES Peers and can’t wait to help in any way I can.
Effective Spring 2024.
Mattia Da Fieno ’25
My name is Mattia Da Fieno and I’m a sophomore this year. I’m originally from Ireland, but I have spent the past 15 years in Seattle. I do underwater photography in my spare time and enjoy learning as much as I can about what I am taking pictures of. Aside from that, I like to spend my downtime fishing, cooking, or playing video games.
Served Fall 2023.
Sonja Giardina ʻ25
Aloha everyone! My name is Sonja and I am from Hilo, Hawai‘i. I am currently a junior in the GES program. I am also majoring in computer science and am interested in how to use big data to model and understand the environment. In the beginning of my science journey, I assisted on a project studying the function of shipwrecks as havens of coral biodiversity, and was involved in a publication in Diversity in February 2022. Since then, my interests have shifted to physical oceanography and how to model future ocean conditions. I am currently working in the Powell Lab using global and regional ocean models to understand how the Hawai‘i region responds to the El Ninõ Southern Oscillation. This summer, I will be doing my NOAA Hollings internship in Seattle on a project using ARGO floats to observe biogeochemical processes in coastal upwelling systems. As you might be able to tell, I love being in and studying the ocean, and when I am not in school you can find me snorkeling, freediving, or just hanging on the beach. You might also find me dancing! If you have any questions or just want to talk, please feel free to reach out!
Served Fall 2023.
Skye Inn ’24
Hi everyone, my name is Skye Inn and I am currently a junior in the GES program. I’m originally from Los Angeles, CA, but I moved to Oʻahu in middle school and have been here ever since. I recently completed an REU Internship at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology last summer on corals and ocean acidification, leading me to my current interests in corals. I am also interested in microbes, however, I find pretty much anything under the sun fascinating! I am currently working in the Nelson Lab on campus, so if I’m not in class, I’m normally there. Outside of school, I love visual arts, going to the beach, playing games, and recently, crocheting! If you ever need me for anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Mariko Quinn ʻ24
Aloha everyone! My name is Mariko Quinn, but everyone calls me Mari. I am currently in my third year of the GES program, and minoring in Political Science. I was born and raised on the windward side of Oʻahu in Kāneʻohe. I have always loved the ocean, having grown up so close to it. If I’m not in class or working, I enjoy paddling, freediving or anything else around the water. I have been working at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) for the last 5 years, assisting with research focused on cryopreservation of coral symbionts with the Hagedorn Lab. I have also been assisting with the Research Experiences in Marine Science program at HIMB, having participated in the program in high school! My research interests are more broadly coral reef conservation and impacts of anthropogenic stressors on marine invertebrate reproduction. I am currently working on my thesis comparing the fertilization success of different Tripneustes gratilla populations around Oʻahu. This summer I will be doing a NOAA Hollings internship assessing the impact of diet on the growth rate of White Abalone. I am more than happy to help or talk story, so please feel free to reach out!
Served Fall 2023.
Keanu Rochette-Yu Tsuen ’23
‘Ia Orana everyone! My name is Keanu and I am from the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia. I started my college journey at Kapi‘olani Community College before transferring to UH Mānoa as a GES student. I started my degree with a great interest in marine biology and biological oceanography. I did a research project on naupaka kahakai, a common beach plant in Hawai‘i, and its potential sunscreen properties and my work was published in the Pacific Science Journal in July 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in light of the sanitary conditions in French Polynesia, there is a real need for epidemiologists in my home country. I am fortunate to be a recipient of the NOAA Hollings Scholarship and I will be doing an internship at a NOAA facility in the Great Lakes this Summer. My GES thesis aims to study the presence of Leptospira bacteria in the He‘eia watershed. This project is funded by UROP.
Outside of school, I enjoy being in the ocean, snorkeling, and freediving. I recently got my scuba diving certification (LV1), my goal being to see the coral rose garden in Tahiti. Otherwise, I am an amateur baker, inspired by the French art of baking. My specialty is French tarts.
Effective Spring 2024, Keanu is the TA for GES 100.
Makenzy Tamura ʻ24
Hello! My name is Makenzy and I’m from Ewa Beach and currently a junior. My current interests are geared toward water quality and security and focusing on identifying potential risks to our local water systems. I chose the GES program because of the rigor of the coursework and the variety of opportunities that I could pursue before and after graduation. I am currently working with Dr. Nugent and Dr. Torri from the Atmospheric Sciences department to determine the changes in solute composition in the hydrologic cycle by sampling rain, stream, and ground water along Mānoa Stream. I’m currently being funded through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP). Outside of school, you can find me walking around Wal-Mart, eating, or talking to random people I meet.
Nicholas Yos ’23
My name is Nick Yos, I am a lifelong resident of Kailua, O’ahu, and I am currently a senior in the Global Environmental Science program. GES has been my home since Spring 2020, before which I was undeclared and very uncertain about what I wanted to study in college. One of my favorite experiences that I’ve gotten through GES was the opportunity to conduct research on reforestation in Hawai’i with Dr. Camilo Mora through PI-CASC’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship. I have also spent two amazing summers working with KUPU and Mālama Learning Center and I currently work as a notetaker for the KOKUA Program, the UH Mānoa office for students with disabilities. I’m still figuring out what I want to do after college, but my current long-term goal is to someday get a job working in conservation in Hawai’i.
Growing up, I was homeschooled from K-12 but took a lot of my classes at Windward Community College in my last two years of high school. I have loved science and the outdoors for my whole life, so majoring in environmental science has been a great way to combine those two worlds. Outside of school, hiking is my favorite pastime and I spend as much time as possible on the trail. I also love choir and have been singing with the UH choirs since I first came to UH Mānoa . My other hobbies include reading, watching movies, and searching for new songs to add to my playlists.
Served Fall 2023.
Stephanie Briones ’24
Hello! My name is Stephanie Briones , I am a nontraditional student born and raised in Hollywood, California. I moved to Hawai’i in June 2020 and took online classes out here. I originally applied as a Marine Biology student but transferred to GES because I want to pursue a career in Oceanography. I am interested in Chemical Oceanography and I am hoping to do my research and thesis on the distribution of cobalt across the oceans and its potential impact on marine phytoplankton. I am proudly leaning into my “señora era” so if I’m not doing “señora” stuff, I am hiking or just relaxing outside and reading a book, but I am open to learning things and possibly taking up a new hobby so if you have any suggestions feel free to send them my way. I look forward to working with students and assisting anyone I can.
Mattia Da Fieno ’25
My name is Mattia Da Fieno and I’m a sophomore this year. I’m originally from Ireland, but I have spent the past 15 years in Seattle. I do underwater photography in my spare time and enjoy learning as much as I can about what I am taking pictures of. Aside from that, I like to spend my downtime fishing, cooking, or playing video games.
Sonja Giardina ʻ25
Aloha everyone! My name is Sonja and I am from Hilo, Hawai‘i. I am currently a junior in the GES program. I am also majoring in computer science and am interested in how to use big data to model and understand the environment. In the beginning of my science journey, I assisted on a project studying the function of shipwrecks as havens of coral biodiversity, and was involved in a publication in Diversity in February 2022. Since then, my interests have shifted to physical oceanography and how to model future ocean conditions. I am currently working in the Powell Lab using global and regional ocean models to understand how the Hawai‘i region responds to the El Ninõ Southern Oscillation. This summer, I will be doing my NOAA Hollings internship in Seattle on a project using ARGO floats to observe biogeochemical processes in coastal upwelling systems. As you might be able to tell, I love being in and studying the ocean, and when I am not in school you can find me snorkeling, freediving, or just hanging on the beach. You might also find me dancing! If you have any questions or just want to talk, please feel free to reach out!
Effective Spring 2023.
Lauryn Hansen ’22
Hey everyone! My name is Lauryn Hansen and I am originally from San Clemente, California. Growing up near the coast, my research passions have always been centralized around oceans and sustainability, but I realized early in my GES academic journey that I wanted to focus on the impacts different chemicals we use on a daily basis have on marine ecosystems. I wrote my thesis on the impacts of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) exposure on specific Hawaiian coral species, and presented in Spring ’22. Read about it here!
I also piloted the GES Bachelor’s and Master’s pathway to earn an MPH with an emphasis in Epidemiology and am now in my second year of the program. Since graduating, I have switched to people-focused research, and am now part of a systems mapping project that looks at the different factors that influence island inhabitant’s relationship with the ocean. Outside of the busy school life you might find me surfing, hiking, gardening, or just being outside in general. If you have questions about the accelerated pathways or want to talk about marine pollution, feel free to reach out any time!
Lauryn is the TA for GES 100, 399, and OCN 105 in Fall 2022.
Skye Inn ’24
Hi everyone, my name is Skye Inn and I am currently a junior in the GES program. I’m originally from Los Angeles, CA, but I moved to Oʻahu in middle school and have been here ever since. I recently completed an REU Internship at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology last summer on corals and ocean acidification, leading me to my current interests in corals. I am also interested in microbes, however, I find pretty much anything under the sun fascinating! I am currently working in the Nelson Lab on campus, so if I’m not in class, I’m normally there. Outside of school, I love visual arts, going to the beach, playing games, and recently, crocheting! If you ever need me for anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Effective Spring 2023.
Hope Kanoa ’25
Aloha everyone! My name is Hope Kanoa and I am in my second year of the GES program. I was born and raised in Kailua, Oʻahu. My current interests involve groundwater and aquifer management, I hope to write my thesis surrounding these topics! I have decided to pursue the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Teacher Education (PBCTE) – Secondary Education (Science) as I hope to become a science teacher in the future! Outside of class you can usually find me at Sherwoods Beach or blasting my music through Kailua! I’m excited to help my fellow GES students through the program, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to me to ask questions, or even just to chat!
Served Fall 2022.
Kyra Leon ’23
Hi! My name is Kyra Leon, and I am currently in my senior year at UH Mānoa in the GES program. Academically, I am most interested in physical oceanography, tides, currents, and polar science. I am also an officer for the SciComm Hawaiʻi RIO at UH Mānoa, and am interested in how scientists communicate to the general public. I received the NOAA Hollings Scholarship and completed a project in Maryland this summer. Read about it here! Since I am from Oregon, it comes naturally that I should love the outdoors, especially snorkeling and swimming. Inside, I enjoy reading, doing art projects, and playing Xbox. I am excited to help out anyone in the GES program who wants to learn more about any of my experiences, wants advice, or just needs a friend, so do not hesitate to reach out!
Caleb Mantanoña ’23
Aloha! My name is Caleb Mantanoña. I am a senior in the GES program and my current academic interests are geared toward sustainability and I’m also exploring a path in medicine! Out of the classroom, you can usually find me at the beach, surfing, or finding a good place to eat. I am excited to support students on their academic journey and encourage them to explore the many opportunities around the University.
Keanu Rochette-Yu Tsuen ’23
‘Ia Orana everyone! My name is Keanu and I am from the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia. I started my college journey at Kapi‘olani Community College before transferring to UH Mānoa as a GES student. I started my degree with a great interest in marine biology and biological oceanography. I did a research project on naupaka kahakai, a common beach plant in Hawai‘i, and its potential sunscreen properties and my work was published in the Pacific Science Journal in July 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in light of the sanitary conditions in French Polynesia, there is a real need for epidemiologists in my home country. I am fortunate to be a recipient of the NOAA Hollings Scholarship and I will be doing an internship at a NOAA facility in the Great Lakes this Summer. My GES thesis aims to study the presence of Leptospira bacteria in the He‘eia watershed. This project is funded by UROP.
Outside of school, I enjoy being in the ocean, snorkeling, and freediving. I recently got my scuba diving certification (LV1), my goal being to see the coral rose garden in Tahiti. Otherwise, I am an amateur baker, inspired by the French art of baking. My specialty is French tarts.
Mariko Quinn ʻ24
Aloha everyone! My name is Mariko Quinn, but everyone calls me Mari. I am currently in my third year of the GES program, and minoring in Political Science. I was born and raised on the windward side of Oʻahu in Kāneʻohe. I have always loved the ocean, having grown up so close to it. If I’m not in class or working, I enjoy paddling, freediving or anything else around the water. I have been working at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) for the last 5 years, assisting with research focused on cryopreservation of coral symbionts with the Hagedorn Lab. I have also been assisting with the Research Experiences in Marine Science program at HIMB, having participated in the program in high school! My research interests are more broadly coral reef conservation and impacts of anthropogenic stressors on marine invertebrate reproduction. I am currently working on my thesis comparing the fertilization success of different Tripneustes gratilla populations around Oʻahu. This summer I will be doing a NOAA Hollings internship assessing the impact of diet on the growth rate of White Abalone. I am more than happy to help or talk story, so please feel free to reach out!
Effective Spring 2023.
Makenzy Tamura ʻ24
Hello! My name is Makenzy and I’m from Ewa Beach and currently a junior. My current interests are geared toward water quality and security and focusing on identifying potential risks to our local water systems. I chose the GES program because of the rigor of the coursework and the variety of opportunities that I could pursue before and after graduation. I am currently working with Dr. Nugent and Dr. Torri from the Atmospheric Sciences department to determine the changes in solute composition in the hydrologic cycle by sampling rain, stream, and ground water along Mānoa Stream. I’m currently being funded through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP). Outside of school, you can find me walking around Wal-Mart, eating, or talking to random people I meet.
Effective Spring 2023.
Amanda Wong ’19
Aloha everyone! My name is Amanda, and I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. My passion for native Hawaiian plants blossomed as a conservation intern with KUPU and a plant restoration research intern through a REU in Hilo, Hawai‘i. I also participated in several ecology opportunities as a SEEDS Fellow through the Ecological Society of America. These experiences helped prepare me for my thesis on native and invasive plant competition in Hawai‘i. In the summer of 2019, I graduated with my GES degree and a minor in Botany. Now, I’m a third-year Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, and NSF Graduate Research Fellow studying microplastics in terrestrial systems.
As a semi-recent GES graduate, I’m also a GES peer mentor for the GES Opportunities Program (GES-OP). The GES-OP provides one-on-one mentorship to GES students in preparing CVs and internship applications by pairing current GES students with recent GES alumni. Multiple GES students participated in the GES-OP, and many were awarded research opportunities and summer internships. Please reach out to me for assistance with your CVs and internship applications!
Amanda is the GES Opportunities mentor. She is available for advising only via email or Zoom.
Nicholas Yos ’23
My name is Nick Yos, I am a lifelong resident of Kailua, O’ahu, and I am currently a senior in the Global Environmental Science program. GES has been my home since Spring 2020, before which I was undeclared and very uncertain about what I wanted to study in college. One of my favorite experiences that I’ve gotten through GES was the opportunity to conduct research on reforestation in Hawai’i with Dr. Camilo Mora through PI-CASC’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship. I have also spent two amazing summers working with KUPU and Mālama Learning Center and I currently work as a notetaker for the KOKUA Program, the UH Mānoa office for students with disabilities. I’m still figuring out what I want to do after college, but my current long-term goal is to someday get a job working in conservation in Hawai’i.
Growing up, I was homeschooled from K-12 but took a lot of my classes at Windward Community College in my last two years of high school. I have loved science and the outdoors for my whole life, so majoring in environmental science has been a great way to combine those two worlds. Outside of school, hiking is my favorite pastime and I spend as much time as possible on the trail. I also love choir and have been singing with the UH choirs since I first came to UH Mānoa . My other hobbies include reading, watching movies, and searching for new songs to add to my playlists.
Kyra Leon ’23
Hi! My name is Kyra Leon, and I am currently in my third year at UH Mānoa in the GES program. Academically, I am most interested in physical oceanography, tides, currents, and polar science. I am also an officer for the SciComm Hawaiʻi RIO at UH Mānoa, and am interested in how scientists communicate to the general public. I received the NOAA Hollings Scholarship and am looking forward to completing a project in Maryland this summer. Since I am from Oregon, it comes naturally that I should love the outdoors, especially snorkeling and swimming. Inside, I enjoy reading, doing art projects, and playing Xbox. I am excited to help out anyone in the GES program who wants to learn more about any of my experiences, wants advice, or just needs a friend, so do not hesitate to reach out!
Caleb Mantanoña ’22
Aloha! My name is Caleb Mantanoña. I am a junior in the GES program and my current academic interests are geared toward sustainability and I’m also exploring a path in medicine! Out of the classroom, you can usually find me at the beach, surfing, or finding a good place to eat. I am excited to support students on their academic journey and encourage them to explore the many opportunities around the University.
Shannon Murphy ’22
Hello everyone! My name is Shannon Murphy and I am born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. I have been in the GES program since my freshman year at UH Mānoa. I am a recipient of the NOAA Hollings scholarship, where I completed a project on juvenile salmon in the Columbia River estuary. However, my main passion lies in coral reefs. I am currently completing my UROP-funded thesis project on corals in Hanauma Bay and I plan to continue studying coral reefs in graduate school. Besides academia, you can find me surfing, diving, or hiking in the mountains – I love doing anything out in Mother Nature. As a part of the GES Peers, I am here to help anyone through their journey in the program and I look forward to working with my classmates.
Alyssa Renteria ’22
Aloha everyone! My name is Alyssa Renteria, a senior in the GES Program also minoring in Political Science. Currently I am the Vice President of the Associated Students of University of Hawaiʻi (ASUH) at Mānoa to pursue my interest in public policy. My research experience all involves GIS, so feel free to reach out if you have any trouble or just want to learn more. I’m passionate about water resources which has led me to my current position as a GIS Research Assistant at the Water Resources Research Center. One piece of advice I would like to share with you, is to always try. I wouldn’t be where I am today without a little optimism.
Keanu Rochette-Yu Tsuen ’23
‘Ia Orana everyone! My name is Keanu and I am from the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia. I started my college journey at Kapi‘olani Community College before transferring to UH Mānoa as a GES student. I started my degree with a great interest in marine biology and biological oceanography. I did a research project on naupaka kahakai, a common beach plant in Hawai‘i, and its potential sunscreen properties and my work was published in the Pacific Science Journal in July 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in light of the sanitary conditions in French Polynesia, there is a real need for epidemiologists in my home country. I decided to take advantage of the Bachelor’s and Master’s pathway to earn a Master of Public Health with an emphasis in Epidemiology with my B.Sc. Global Environmental Science. I am fortunate to be a recipient of the NOAA Hollings Scholarship and I will be doing an internship at a NOAA facility in the Great Lakes this Summer. My GES thesis aims to study the presence of Leptospira bacteria in the He‘eia watershed. This project is funded by the UROP.
Outside of school, I enjoy being in the ocean, snorkeling, and freediving. I recently got my scuba diving certification (LV1), my goal being to see the coral rose garden in Tahiti. Otherwise, I am an amateur baker, inspired by the French art of baking. My specialty is French tarts.
Erickson Shull ’22
Hi y’all, I’m Erickson Shull, I will be going into my last year as a GES Major. I was originally a transfer student from The University of Portland studying Mechanical Engineering back in 2019. I was born on O’ahu but raised on Maui and have a deep love for the islands and their many wonders. I have a multitude of hobbies ranging from rebuilding cars to building remote-controlled planes… Basically, if it can propel itself, I like working on it. My thesis project is a design thesis that utilizes an unmanned fixed-wing aircraft to collect various atmospheric parameters that may indicate how sea salt aerosol affects precipitation on O’ahu. To conduct this project, I had to get UROP (Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program) funding, so please reach out to me if you have any questions on the process or need help in general!
Sofia Suesue ’22
Hello, my name is Sofia Suesue. I am a Senior in the GES program, I’m interested in researching microbial ecology and coastal ecosystems. My hobbies include paddling and collecting minerals. I know it can be a bit overwhelming for incoming students, but don’t be afraid to ask for help or any kind of questions. There are a lot of supportive people in this program that are more than happy to help!
Nicholas Yos ’23
My name is Nick Yos, I am a lifelong resident of Kailua, O’ahu, and I am currently a junior in the Global Environmental Science program. GES has been my home since Spring 2020, before which I was undeclared and very uncertain about what I wanted to study in college. One of my favorite experiences that I’ve gotten through GES was the opportunity to conduct research on reforestation in Hawai’i with Dr. Camilo Mora through PI-CASC’s Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship. I have also spent two amazing summers working with KUPU and Mālama Learning Center and I currently work as a notetaker for the KOKUA Program, the UH Mānoa office for students with disabilities. I’m still figuring out what I want to do after college, but my current long-term goal is to someday get a job working in conservation in Hawai’i.
Growing up, I was homeschooled from K-12 but took a lot of my classes at Windward Community College in my last two years of high school. I have loved science and the outdoors for my whole life, so majoring in environmental science has been a great way to combine those two worlds. Outside of school, hiking is my favorite pastime and I spend as much time as possible on the trail. I also love choir and have been singing with the UH choirs since I first came to UH Mānoa . My other hobbies include reading, watching movies, and searching for new songs to add to my playlists.
Eleanor Yuan ’21
Hi, I’m Eleanor. I’m in my last year of GES and Economics. I was born and raised in Honolulu and came to UH Mānoa right after graduating high school. I’m interested in how human consumption interacts and impacts the environment. Feel free to talk to me about interning in the private sector and taking advantage of activities or opportunities on campus. In the past I’ve also interned as a construction environmental monitor, studied abroad, held an on-campus job, been involved in a Registered Independent Organization/RIO (on campus club), volunteered with the Atherton YMCA, and have had the opportunity to have been on a HOT cruise and funded by UROP, to have contributed to the campus undergraduate journal (Mānoa Horizons), and to have done a bit of work in a lab and in data visualization. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you want to learn more about anything I’ve listed; although some of my experiences have been short and limited, I’d happy to chat and at least connect you with someone that knows more.
Graduated Fall 2021
Tina Huynh-Nguyen ’21
Aloha everyone, my name is Tina. I’m interested in conservation education and phycology research. In my free time, you can find me at the intertidal zone. To me it’s a magical place, where the land meets the sea with bountiful invertebrates and algae to admire. One advice I would like to share with my fellow GESers is to color your life with opportunities and friendships.
Served Fall 2020.
Eric Klingberg ’21
I’m Eric Klingberg, and I’m in my fourth year in the GES program while pursuing the Sustainability Science track. I am studying deep sea ecology in areas threatened by deep sea mining operations, and I’m interested in applying scientific and multidisciplinary perspectives to improving fisheries management.
Shannon Murphy ’22
Hello everyone! My name is Shannon Murphy and I am a senior in the GES program. I am passionate about coral reefs which I plan to continue studying in graduate school. Besides for academia, you can find me surfing, diving, or hiking in the mountains – I love doing anything out in Mother Nature. As a GES Peer, I am here to help anyone through their journey in the program and I look forward to working with my fellow classmates.
Alyssa Renteria ’22
Aloha everyone, my name is Alyssa Renteria, currently a junior in the GES program. My research interests include water resources and public policy. Outside of school, I like making films. One piece of advice I have for incoming students using to always try. Regardless of what you think might happen, just try. As author Paulo Coelho said: “Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.”
Sofia Suesue ’22
Hello, my name is Sofia Suesue. I am a Senior in the GES program, I’m interested in researching microbial ecology and coastal ecosystems. My hobbies include paddling and collecting minerals. I know it can be a bit overwhelming for incoming students, but don’t be afraid to ask for help or any kind of questions. There are a lot of supportive people in this program that are more than happy to help!
Andrew Tokuda ’20
Howzit everybody! My name is Andrew Kecskes Tokuda, and am currently a senior. My research interests include deep-sea ecology, sustainable fisheries, and outreach! One piece of advice I have for you folks is to make sure to build connections both inside and outside school, and don’t forget to have fun while exploring!
Graduated Fall 2020.
Eleanor Yuan ’21
Hi, I’m Eleanor. I’m in my last year of GES and Economics. I was born and raised in Honolulu and came to UH Mānoa right after graduating high school. I’m interested in how human consumption interacts and impacts the environment. Feel free to talk to me about interning in the private sector and taking advantage of activities or opportunities on campus. In the past I’ve also interned as a construction environmental monitor, studied abroad, held an on-campus job, been involved in a Registered Independent Organization/RIO (on campus club), volunteered with the Atherton YMCA, and have had the opportunity to have been on a HOT cruise and funded by UROP, to have contributed to the campus undergraduate journal (Mānoa Horizons), and to have done a bit of work in a lab and in data visualization. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you want to learn more about anything I’ve listed; although some of my experiences have been short and limited, I’d happy to chat and at least connect you with someone that knows more.
Solomon Chen ’20
Solomon is a senior GES and Chemistry double major student. His academic interests are mainly on biogeochemistry, applied engineering, and applied chemistry. He has designed his GES thesis project for water quality monitoring and watershed characterization in the Ala Wai watershed, advised by Dr. Brain Glazer. The past summer, he was appointed as a summer student fellow at Woods Hole Oceanography Institution. His summer research project focused on characterizing a new in-situ sensor development.
Tina Huynh-Nguyen ’21
Aloha everyone, my name is Tina and I am in my junior year in the GES program, and I’m interested in conservation education and phycology research. In my free time, you can find me at the intertidal zone. To me it’s a magical place, where the land meets the sea with bountiful invertebrates and algae to admire. One advice I would like to share with my fellow GESers is to color your life with opportunities and friendships.
Eric Klingberg ’20
I’m Eric Klingberg, and I’m in my fourth year in the GES program while pursuing the Sustainability Science track. I am studying deep sea ecology in areas threatened by deep sea mining operations, and I’m interested in applying scientific and multidisciplinary perspectives to improving fisheries management. When I’m not doing school work, I enjoy spending time in the mountains and in the sea, volunteering with conservation organizations and shooting photography.
Some advice: Expose yourself to a variety of perspectives, even if you disagree with them. The most valuable lessons often occur outside the classroom. Identify your strengths and weaknesses, then search for where your unique gifts and interests collide.
Diana Lopera ’20
Hello current and aspiring GES Rock Stars! My name is Diana Lopera, a senior in the GES Program. I am currently working with the He`eia National Estuarine Research Reserve, looking at invasive species and and water circulation within He`eia Fishpond, an 800 year old native Hawaiian fishpond. I love doing STEM Outreach and Education, using the power of story and narratives to communicate the science. When I’m not in school, I’m either cooking, playing the ukulele, volunteering for community nonprofits, or knee deep in a summer research internship somewhere in the world (seriously, ask me about them!). One piece of advice I would share to students is to believe in the power of your story. Everyone has one, and more often than not, it is talking story that opens the doors to relationships, opportunities, and growth.
Served Fall 2019.
Kelsey Nichols ’21
Aloha, my name is Kelsey Nichols and I am a junior in GES. I am interested in oceanography and its intersection with anthropology. When I am not in school or studying I love to hike and read books. One advice for GES students: meet and talk with your fellow GES peers! They are an amazing, supportive community who are great people to vent to or ask advice from.
Served Fall 2019.
Han Quach ’21
Hi everyone! My name is Han Quach, and Iʻm a junior in the GES program. My research interests consists of computer modeling as well as STEM education and outreach. Outside of class I enjoy reading and writing. One advice I would give to my fellow GES peers is that the grass is greener wherever you water it.
Served Fall 2019.
Alyssa Renteria ’22
Aloha everyone, my name is Alyssa Renteria, currently a sophomore in the GES program. My research interests include water resources and public policy. Outside of school, I like making films. One piece of advice I have for incoming students using to always try. Regardless of what you think might happen, just try. As author Paulo Coelho said: “Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.”
Kealohi Sabate ’19
Aloha my name is Kealohi Sabate and I am currently a senior in GES. I started off as a Business major but switched to the environmental sciences when I transferred here from Kapiʻolani Community College. I’m currently doing the research involved with invasive algae management. I love being outdoors and some of my favorite activities include surfing, hiking, swimming, and in general just fooling around in nature. One of the things I held to heart while being in GES is to not be afraid of trying something new. By doing this I was able to travel to Texas, Japan, Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica within the past year, and it has presented me with some of the most unforgettable memories I’ve ever experienced.
Graduated Fall 2019.
Andrew Tokuda ’20
Howzit everybody! My name is Andrew Kecskes Tokuda, and am currently a senior. My research interests include deep-sea ecology, sustainable fisheries, and outreach! One piece of advice I have for you folks is to make sure to build connections both inside and outside school, and don’t forget to have fun while exploring!
Shaun Wriston ’20
My name is Shaun Wriston. Born and raised in Hawai‘i, grew up in Kaimuki. Graduated KCC Fall 2017 with an ASNS in both physical and biological sciences. Currently a senior in GES, utilizing time-series data from the PacIOOS Near Shore Sensors to study a wide variety of atmospheric and oceanographic processes, including local effects of climate change. I am pursuing the GES and Master of Urban and Regional Planning accelerated Bachelor’s-and-Master’s pathway, with hopes to get into policy for climate change adaptations throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
I love to surf and bodysurf, anything in the ocean really. I enjoy spending time with my family and having mechanical projects to keep me busy. My one piece of advice for incoming students is to be sure you get to know your peers. Whether you are social or not, the friendships and professional relationships I have made during GES and my time at KCC are the only reason I am still in school and encouraged to continue furthering my education.
Solomon Chen ’20
I am a senior student double majoring in Global Environmental Science and Chemistry. My main interests are oceanography and applied chemistry within environmental science field. Prior to University of Hawaii, I was a student majoring in Applied Chemistry at National Chao Tung University in Taiwan. It was my love for ocean (actually surfing) that brought me to Hawaii. I have participated in HOT cruise; I currently work as an undergrad research assistant in SMART Ala Wai. I hope to advance my knowledge in biogeochemistry, eutrophication remedy, and sensors/instruments development. I surf, cook, make noise with guitar in my free time (which I don’t really have…)
Noah Howins ’19
Currently a senior, I’ll be graduating in Spring 2019. In Fall 2019 I will begin as a graduate student in our department. My focus in GES revolves around understanding human impacts on coral reefs through seawater chemistry- topics I am particularly passionate about are ocean acidification and carbonate chemistry. Via taking advantage of the opportunities available in GES, I have been on 3 research cruises, worked at the NOAA Inouye Regional Center, and given multiple poster and oral presentations at conferences. Outside of class you can find me enduring late nights in the lab, working as a UH scientific diver, or judging high school science fairs. I’m always available to provide advice on classes and research opportunities so feel free to reach out. A hui hou!
Diana Lopera ’20
I am a junior undergraduate student and will be graduating in Spring 2020. I have been involved in multiple REU programs in and out of the country, from microbiology in UH to tropical ecology in Costa Rica. My love for research within the natural environment started when I first went snorkeling around my home island, only to come back a year later and see it all gone due to a warmer and more acidic ocean. My interests include sea level rise, coral reef ecology, and understanding the effects of a warming world on natural ecosystems, particularly in the Pacific islands. I am involved with the Atherton YMCA, and am the current undergrad intern for the Pacific Islands King Tides Project under the Hawai‘i Sea Grant. When I’m not in school or at work, you can find me stress cooking, playing guitar, and binge watching Asian dramas.
Kealohi Sabate ’19
I am a senior transfer from Windward Community College who loves to surf and overall do anything outdoors. I also have some old lady tendencies where I like to sew, thrift, and paint. Currently I am the treasurer of the UHM Surfrider Foundation and American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), and am an active member in the Native Hawaiian Science and Engineering Mentorship Program (NHSEMP) and Maile Mentoring programs on campus. I also frequently volunteer for KWMP, Sustainable Coastlines, Mālama Maunalua, and the YMCA. In terms of environmental experience, I am currently working with invasive algae and researching ways to better manage the waste problem through the analysis of microbial communities. My current interest involve a focus within renewable energy and conservation and trying to tie that in with a Hawaiian perspective. All my Hawaiians/indigenous peeps out there hit me up for some scholarship/program advice cuz I know some good opportunities for you guys.
Andrew Tokuda ’20
“Hey, howzit?” will be a common greeting you’ll hear me say whenever I bump into people within our SOEST Ohana. I am a junior student projected to graduate in Fall 2020. My hobbies include a huge variety of outdoor activities, including: survival, fishing, diving, hiking, mountaineering, bird-watching, and herping; just to name a few. I was also first educated in Japan and continued to take Japanese courses for close to 17 years. I recently utilized this skill to translate scientific journals and fisheries assessments. I have participated in a number of cruises, which consists of both research-related cruises (HOT program and deep-sea related cruises) and international voyages (teaching English to international students). I currently research deep-sea fish and other fauna in the deepest parts of the ocean! I am also a NOAA Hollings Scholar (Class of 2018) and Army ROTC Cadet (3rd Year). My short-term goals are: (1) to learn as much as I can about environmental processes and military functioning; and (2) to expand my social network. For the long term, I aspire to commission as an officer in the U.S Army while simultaneously working in a federal science agency.
Cuong Tran ’19
I am a senior undergraduate student and will be graduating in Spring 2019. My hobbies include adventuring, eating, trying new things, and taking 1 credit KRS classes. I am a current NOAA Hollings Scholar Class of 2017 and am involved in organizations such as the YMCA of Honolulu, Hawai‘i Sea Grant, and Mortar Board National Honor Society. My focus is on sea level rise, coastal erosion, and flood mitigation surrounding coastal communities in an imminent world of warming temperatures. My short-term goals revolve around educating myself on coastal processes leaning towards an imminent world of rising sea level. My long-term goals are centralized on the idea of preparedness of global climate change and to learn among different perspectives of people on redesigning a more resilient coast. I love to meet people but watch out, my laugh is “CUONG”tagious.
Amanda Wong ’19
I am a senior undergraduate student and will be graduating in Spring 2019. My hobbies include plants, gardening, cooking, hiking, and eating. I am a current SEEDS Fellow through the Ecological Society of America, and did an internship at Cornell University doing plant ecology and DNA extraction. I also did conservation work through KUPU and plant ecology research through an REU in Hilo, Hawai’i. I am currently involved in Mortar Board National Honor Society on campus. My interests are in plant ecology, plant competition, invasive species, and climate change. My short-term goals revolve around educating myself on the impacts of invasive species and climate change on plants on an ecosystem and global level. My long-term goals are focused around finding solutions to the environmental problems that affect the people of Hawai’i.
Shaun Wriston ’20
I am a transfer student from KCC, where I received my associates in both life and physical science in fall of 2017 and am currently a junior working towards my B.S. in Global Environmental Science at UH Mānoa with intention of attending graduate school in Oceanography. I am currently utilizing time series data from nearshore water quality sensors, taking varying parameters and comparing them to El Niño events, storm frequency and relative sea level rise along the south shores of O`ahu. I am a PIPES and PBRC REU alumni. While my interest focuses on marine and coastal relationships, I have a lot of experience with terrestrial conservation work and native forest restoration. When I am not studying I’ll be out surfing.
Updated January 4, 2024.