Paubox Kahikina Scholarship Recipient Harlee Wong: 2025 update

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 2022 scholarship recipient, Harlee Wong moved on to attend Chaminade University of Honolulu to study Forensic Sciences with a minor in Chemistry. Here is a word from Harlee: 

"Aloha! My name is Harlee Wong, and I’m proud to be one of the 2022 recipients of the Paubox Kahikina STEM Scholarship. As I reflect on my college journey so far, I’m filled with gratitude and motivation. I just completed my junior year at Chaminade University of Honolulu, where I’m majoring in Forensic Sciences with a minor in Chemistry. This past year was academically challenging, filled with highs and lows, but I’ve learned that patience, perseverance, and self-belief are key to pushing through. I’ve grown so much — not just as a student, but as a person — and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of my family, friends, and the incredible Paubox ‘ohana.

I’m also honored to share that I was recognized by the American Chemical Society as an Outstanding Student in both Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry. These awards mean a lot to me, especially given how rigorous these courses are. They remind me that hard work truly pays off. I’ve also had opportunities to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom in more practical ways, which has been exciting and deeply rewarding.

This summer, I’m interning with the Department of the Medical Examiner, gaining hands-on experience in the field I hope to build a career in. Being able to apply my academic knowledge to real-life forensic work has solidified my passion for becoming a Crime Scene Investigator, ideally with the FBI one day. Each step I take brings me closer to that dream.

As I look ahead to my senior year this fall, I feel an overwhelming sense of excitement and purpose. I know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the incredible support of Hoala Greevy and the Paubox team. Being a Native Hawaiian student pursuing a career in STEM, it means so much to have this kind of encouragement behind me — it’s more than just financial assistance; it’s a reminder that my goals matter and that my voice represents something greater. Because of this support, I can stay focused on the path ahead and continue working toward my academic and professional aspirations. I’m truly grateful for Paubox’s commitment to uplifting Native Hawaiian students, and I hope others take that leap of faith to pursue their dreams as well."

Watch: Paubox Kahikina STEM Scholarship Update