“I love connecting & interacting with my patients and being able to improve their functional strength and stability to be able to achieve their goals and do everything they want to do in life.”

Hometown

Hawaiʻi Kai, HI

Department

Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science

COEAA Spotlight on Melanie Shiraki (Credit: Lori Furoyama)

Growing Up

I grew up on the island of Oʻahu, specifically on the east side in Hawaiʻi Kai. I graduated from Kalani High School and University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, and enjoy hiking, swimming, going to the beach, and spending time with friends andfamily.

Influences

I completed a health-related class in high school where I had to do an 80-hour internship. I ended up interning with two different physical therapists, and through that internship I found my passion and a career I thought that I’d really enjoy and feel happy/fulfilled. I ended up loving the interactions, the impact my mentors made in their patients’ lives, and the connections that I could make on a daily basis.

COE Impact

The COE Department of Kinesiology really prepared me well to successfully pass graduate school. My teachers and the detailed COE kinesiology curriculum provided me with knowledge, guidance, tools, and resources to be the person I am today and succeed in my career pathway.

Career Path

I graduated from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in 2019. I then attended Pacific University in Oregon graduating with my Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT). After graduating from PT school, I worked at multiple outpatient orthopedic clinics in Hawaiʻi. Near the end of 2025, I decided to work as a travel physical therapist in Washington State.

Best Part of the Job

Helping people, putting a smile on my patients and co-workers faces, and creating a positive impact in my community. I love connecting & interacting with my patients and being able to improve their functional strength and stability to be able to achieve their goals and do everything they want to do in life.

Future Plans

I plan to work as a travel physical therapist the next few years and ideally travel around the world while creating new memories, relationships, and connections. I plan to eventually settle down, create a family, and spend time with my loved ones.

3 Fun Facts

1. I love matcha and hojicha tea
2. My favorite color is teal or pink
3. I love dogs and hope to get a dachshund one day