“I am enthusiastic about sharing my knowledge of the Ilokano language, history, and culture with the youth and those wanting to learn, so teaching opened the door to more opportunities.”

Hometown

ʻAiea, HI

Department

School of Teacher Education - M.Ed. in Teaching

Where do you work?
I’m at Waipahu High School teaching World History and I’m excited to be among one of the first to teach the Filipino History & Culture class.

How did you become interested in the field of education? The MEdT Program?
After graduating with my BA in Philippine Language and Literature and BS in Human Development and Family Studies, I received the opportunity to teach Ilokano at Farrington High School as an emergency hire. I am enthusiastic about sharing my knowledge of the Ilokano language, history, and culture with the youth and those wanting to learn, so teaching opened the door to more opportunities. Due to the DOE’s requirements, I enrolled in the MEdT program to obtain my teaching license and learn more about how to be a better teacher.

You recently competed in the Mrs. Hawaii Filipina 2024 Scholarship & Charity Pageant, placing 4th place overall and winning Mrs. Photogenic, Best in Terno (Filipina attire), and Best in Speech. How long have you been participating in pageant programs and what does it mean to you?
This is my first pageant competition. I initially joined because I was interested in this year’s theme, “Empowering Women through Education,” and the cause behind the pageant which raises funds for scholarships and charities. Participating in this pageant and other community work is important to me because there are lot of Filipinos in Hawaiʻi. I believe being a part of that support system is important.

How is the COE impacting or benefiting your career path?
When I started the MEdT program at the College of Education, I knew I would gain knowledge in standards, teaching methods, and strategies as well as learn to better understand my strengths and weaknesses as a teacher and person. This learning has improved my abilities both in and out of the classroom. The opportunities for student teaching have also enhanced my teaching skills and provided valuable experiences. I was also offered and accepted a teaching position at my current school through student teaching.

Is there anyone in particular who inspired you to pursue a career in education?
Teaching wasn’t my original career plan. However, after discussing the importance of higher education with my dad, I returned to UHM to complete my undergraduate studies. There, I met Dr. Aurelio Agacoili, one of my professors, who inspired me to consider teaching as a career. A few weeks after we first met, he encouraged me by saying, “You have the potential to be a great teacher, Dr. Abella” (he calls his students “doctor” perhaps because he believes many will pursue PhDs). Later, he recommended me for the Ilokano teaching position at Farrington High School.

Before we moved to Hawaiʻi, my dad was studying to become a teacher but couldn’t finish his degree. I remember him teaching me English before we left and continuing to teach me after we moved here.

What are your future plans with your degree?
I hope to continue teaching with the Department of Education and lecturing with the UHM Ilokano Program.

Anything else you would like to include?
During the pageant, I had the opportunity to highlight my faith and participation in Filipino groups such as NAKEM Hawaiʻi and the student-led organization Timpuyog. These organizations provide opportunities to assist students and the community. Currently, we are organizing the 20th Anniversary Conference for NAKEM Hawaii. Timpuyog, led by UHM students, also plans upcoming cultural events that are open to everyone. You can follow them on social media for more information.