The Paubox Kahikina Scholarship helps Native Hawaiian students pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and Tech in general. Its purpose is to offer financial support and create a strong network for these students. The scholarship makes education more affordable and connects students with professionals, giving them valuable opportunities to learn and grow in their chosen STEM or Tech fields. This scholarship is about more than just money; it's about building a community and empowering Native Hawaiian students to succeed in STEM or Tech careers.

See also: The big ideas behind the Paubox Kahikina Scholarship

 

Caleb Takiguchi, who graduated from Kamehameha Schools, is a 2025 scholarship recipient. He is now a sophomore at Cornell University pursuing a pre-med biomedical engineering degree. Here is a word from Caleb:

“Aloha! My name is Caleb Takiguchi, and I am so grateful to be a part of the 2025 Paubox Kahikina scholarship cohort… This past year, I was able to experience a wide range of what Cornell had to offer, from tons of clubs to social events that made this year truly memorable.

I joined the Wu Lab, which was my first experience in a professional setting. I acted as an undergraduate researcher working on tumor spheroids, where we analyzed how these microscopic spheroids moved and reacted under controlled pressure. Also, I was a part of the mechanical teams at Cornell Cup Robotics and Cornell Entertainment Engineering and Design where I was able to work on my CAD skills and make some friends whose interests aligned with mine. Those took up the majority of my time, but I really enjoyed the skills I developed and the people I met.

I also was able to have fun this year! Marching with the Big Red Marching Band in football games at Harvard and Yale were super fun ways to get off campus and meet people outside of my major. Additionally, volunteering with Rotaract (the college branch of the Rotary Club) and PulseGuard (a CPR education club) were great ways to get involved with the wider Ithaca community and meet people who shared the same passions I have.

These activities were the result of the support of the Paubox Kahikina Foundation. Their support and network have been a huge help in my first year of college and I am so grateful for their belief in students like me to push past challenges and towards our goals.”

Read more: Paubox Kahikina Scholarship Recipient Reflection | Caleb Takiguchi