Pacific Islander Student Alliance (PISA)

Yesterday was an incredible day as I had the honor of connecting with Pacific Islander (PI) students from the University of Washington and Western Washington. Being part of this community, sharing stories, and learning about their unique journeys was truly special.

Their tales echoed the familiar narrative of navigating academic pathways, but what struck me most was the heartbreaking common thread of struggling with a sense of belonging. Many of these inspiring students find themselves as the sole PIs in their classes and programs, grappling with imposter syndrome due to the lack of representation among faculty, staff, and peers. For these students the lack of a sense of belonging is the most significant challenge in their higher ed journey.

I emphasized to them that the challenge of being the "one" doesn't end with a degree; these hurdles persist in the workforce. However, amidst these challenges, the essential message is clear—they deserve to be here, just as much as any other student. Another community member highlighted the additional burden carried by PI students, serving not only as learners but also as educators, frequently shouldering the responsibility of enlightening others about our culture and people. This weight becomes even more pronounced when student clubs are sidelined in campus events or reduced to mere performers rather than organizers.

Yesterday wasn't just a day in community; it was a vital moment for our PI students. As a collective, we needed to show up and assure them that this journey isn't a solitary one; they have a community here to support them in their educational endeavors and beyond. A community that has navigated the intricacies of the higher ed system to advocate for educational justice. A community ready to provide unwavering support.

To my fellow PIs in higher education, we bear a responsibility for our young people. Let's not just guide them through their academic journey but also rally to help them seamlessly transition into the workforce. REPRESENTATION MATTERS. ??

Let's continue to uplift and empower our PI students. Together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment! ???? #PasifikaScholars #NHPI #SenseOfBelonging #StudentSuccess #HigherEd