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
As a graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama, Dustin is pursuing a double major in Economics and Environmental Studies at Dartmouth College. Here's a word from Dustin:
“As the first few weeks of Summer 2025 unfold, I have taken a step back to reflect on a year unlike any other — my freshman year at Dartmouth College. It was a year filled with growth, challenge, and unexpected discovery, one that stretched me far beyond the bounds of any classroom. And, as I look back on the people I have met, the experiences I have embraced, and the many ways I have been pushed to grow, I am especially grateful for the unwavering support of the Paubox ʻohana, whose trust in my journey continues to inspire me every step of the way.
My introduction to Dartmouth began not with textbooks, but with pine trees and campfires. Through First-Year Trips, Dartmouth’s outdoor orientation program, I spent my first days of fall camping, swimming, and playing spikeball under the late-summer sun of New England. It was during these moments, gathered in the woods with classmates from across the country, that I first recognized the tight-knit, adventure-loving spirit that defines Dartmouth. Soon after, I found myself circling a 60-foot homecoming bonfire alongside hundreds of other first-years, fully immersed in the college’s vibrant traditions. That same term, I enrolled in Entrepreneurship and Public Policy, an upper-level Government course that quickly became a turning point in my academic journey. Learning from experienced venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, I began to see how the fields of business and public policy can intersect to drive innovation and meaningful change. It was here that my long-standing interest in business expanded into something deeper — a curiosity about the role of governance and regulation in shaping sustainable futures.
After a much-needed winter break back home in the mountains and refreshing waters of Hawaiʻi, I returned to campus for my first real New England winter — snow-covered sidewalks, frosty air, and all. I swapped my slides for snow boots and embraced the season head-on, whether skiing across frozen ponds, joining the midnight snowball fight tradition, or warming up in lively campus spaces filled with conversation and camaraderie. Most importantly, the winter term marked my introduction to Dartmouth’s Native American and Indigenous Studies department. What began as a single elective quickly evolved into a passion, as I explored the histories, challenges, and strengths of various indigenous communities, both on the continent and back home.
Then, Spring arrived in full bloom, bringing with it a renewed sense of joy, belonging, and exploration. After traveling along the East Coast during Spring break, I returned to Dartmouth feeling recharged. Academically, I continued to deepen my interests through courses in both Government and Native American and Indigenous Studies. These classes challenged me to think critically about power, representation, and indigenous governance, while sharpening my analytical and writing skills. Outside the classroom, I joined the Club Swim Team, played water polo with friends, and even visited an alpaca farm with other native and indigenous students. But, the highlight of the term was participating in Dartmouth’s annual lūʻau. Dancing hula and Tongan siva with my Hawaiʻi and Pasifika ʻohana, teaching classmates how to make lei, and sharing Hawaiian food straight from Hilo made me feel rooted, even while 5,000 miles away from home.”
Read: Paubox Kahikina Scholarship Recipient Reflection | Dustin Kealoha
Kirsten Peremore
