Final Week in Hawaii

I cannot believe how fast this summer passed by. 10 weeks at NASA went by in a blink of an eye. Although there were obstacles along the way, as well as triumphs, I learned so much during this summer. I met so many intelligent, genuine people who had a deep passion for robotics. One person I will always remember was my good island bro, Roberto from Puerto Rico. I was able to tell him things I would normally not be able to tell others. Whenever I felt down because of our project, or just about life, he would be there to listen and offer advice and encouragement. I feel I am ready to take on a whole new experience in the upcoming years, and I am confident that as long as I set my mind to something, I can accomplish anything.

I got back to Hawaii on Saturday, and now, I am getting ready to leave tomorrow, where I will participate in the DEECS preorientation program. Things seem to be the same here in Hawaii. In addition to the beautiful weather, the people are always showing the Aloha spirit. I am glad to know that Hawaii will always be my home, but I feel I'm ready to venture off to the East Coast to explore many new opportunities and bring them back to the islands to share with others.

I got the chance to visit my physics teacher, who was one of the major influences in my life. I know for sure I would not be where I am had she not be an advocate of starting robotics programs at my high school, or seeking out talented students who just needed a different route in high school. I am thankful I got to visit her before I left, because I was able to share some thoughts and advice with her class, from preparing for college, to facing challenges along the way in high school. It feels great to be able to speak with these students, because just a year ago I was in their shoes, worrying about where I'd be in the next year, whether or not I would go to college or not. The most important thing I conveyed to these students was that no matter what circumstances they were in, no matter what their backgrounds are, they have every right and opportunity to attend college and better themselves.

I never realized how much i missed my parents, or how much they missed me. I got to bond with them during this week, and I feel i made them proud, but there is still a whole lot to accomplish. We got to hang out at the Honolulu Family Festival, where we rode some crazy rides. And before we left, my dad parked on the side, and we got to walk along the beach, right under a full moon, where the reflection of the moon on the ocean glistened upon my eyes. That feeling was so magical ( i sound feminine, but that's okay). There was so much of Hawaii i still haven't explored, but I know sometime in the future, I will get the chance.

So now as I do my final packing, I am excited on what the future has in store for this local Hawaiian boy. But whatever happens, I know I will have many people out there rooting for me, supporting me along the way. One thing is for sure-I am blessed to be able to learn at such a prestigious institution like MIT. I will be sure I take advantage of all the opportunities that come my way.