A revitalized and renewed human now on a journey to spread aloha! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

This trip, along with every TGP trip ive been on, is not just about what we learn in the classroom. I found myself learning about the earth, hawaiian culture, food science, love, life, and human connection with the many hours spent in and out of the classroom. Being surrounded by inspiring people doing amazing things at their own home universities and being encouraged to collaborate on the ideas and issues presented to us during our studies taught me a lot about the importance of collaboration for problem solving. Also, participating in the capstone project was excellent practice for combatting issues as a diverse team from many different backgrounds. We all were able to give a piece of ourselves in this project and come out with a project that we all were and still are very proud of. The capstone project idea that we had has also inspired me to attempt to implement a similar project at my university. This is just one of the endless examples of the abilities ive had to bring home what I learned and experienced in Hawaii and be able to make impactful and equitable change at home. None of what I have accomplished today could have been done without the experiences I had and connections I made while in Hawaii.

On-site administration of your program

The program guides trully changed my life. We had the most exposure with Lala, Keala, Ray (the Hawaii team), and Melissa (the TGP CEO). They were more than guides. They were family showing us their home and incorporating us into their lives. They shared their hearts and histories with us, and were extremely hospitable and accommodating throughout the entire experience. Lala particularly touched my heart and soul in a very special way. Her soul and fire and love for her nation inspired me. They taught us so much about the earth and about love. Love for all life and all systems. I felt so connected and vitalized around them. I would talk with Ray and Lala for hours and just listen to them share their stories. Also, at Kahumana Farm, Rachel was a blessing to meet and learn from. She is a vibrant human and a treasure!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed at Kahumana Farms for the majority of our trip. It was such a unique and beautiful experience to be able to stay somewhere that related directly to our university studies. We got to see daily how what we were learning in the classroom was implemented in real life, and every waking moment being here was a learning experience. It was not just somewhere we went to bed at the end of the day- it was a classroom. it was a hub for connection and family. We were able to eat the food that was grown on the farm, and we even had opportunities to help out around the farm if we wanted to. The lodging was fantastic as well. There 2 lodges that our group stayed in, and there were options for many different size rooms. Most rooms had 2-4 beds, but there were a few rooms with single beds for those who prefer to debrief and destress alone after a long day. Also, the farm has a swimming pool that we had 24/7 access to, as well as the most beautiful sights that one could ask for. We even had class a few times at the farm!

The food was delicious. We ate mostly at restaurants that support local business and local farmers. It was reassuring to know that we were not negatively contributing to the local environment and economy by eating at places that are committed to sustainability. This includes eating our breakfasts and some dinners at Kahumana Farm. Also, we ate traditional Hawaiian cuisine and were able to learn about the food we were eating as we were eating it.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Completely integrated. This was the most important and special part of the trip for me and where I learned the most. I dont want to give away too much, and you really have to go there to experience the beauty of Hawaiian culture and people. Hawaiian culture isnt Waikiki. It isnt big hotels or shopping malls or Bahama mamas drank out of a pineapple. It is love and connection and giving back to the earth. It is sharing with your neighbors, your 'ohana. Being immersed in Hawaiian culture requires listening and learning, as does being immersed in any culture different than your own.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I did not have any health issues while on the program, but our guides were very accommodating when people needed medicine or needed to take things slow. One of the guides would frequently go to the store for people. We were treated like family because we all became family as soon as we met.

I felt safe the entire trip. Even when we were doing adventurous and mildly dangerous activities (on our own accord), I always knew that there was protocol in place in case anything happens. Everyone was looking out for each other and ensuring each others safety and security.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Most of the food was covered by our program fee. And any extra food was not that expensive, if youre buying local.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

We were taught so many Hawaiian words and a lot about the history of Hawaiian language, as well as the growing effort to preserve the language today.

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