Aloha and Welcome!

Kanu a Kupu is a summer bridge program designed for incoming students in the College of Natural and Health Sciences at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. After a successful program in 2024, we are looking forward to another great experience in 2025! Please be patient as we update this webpage.

The Hawaiian phrase Kanu a Kupu may be translated “to plant and sprout.” This name reflects our mission to give students tools to thrive at UH-Hilo. To accomplish this goal we provide incoming students with a unique opportunity to prepare for STEM majors through engaging, hands-on science experiences led by professional scientists.

Program Dates: Monday and Tuesday, August 18-19, 2025 (two days before New Student Orientation).

New this year: two different science topics!

Topic 1: Non-biodegradable waste, such as plastics, contribute to marine debris that threaten sea life. Using simple chemical tests, the laboratory project will lead the students to characterize the identity of plastics collected from the beach.

Topic 2: More details to come. This topic will involve using data analysis to investigate climate change.

Food & Lodging: Students who plan to live on campus in the fall may check into their dorm rooms between 9:00 and 10:00 am on Monday (a day before other incoming students). Students not living on campus may commute to this program. Lunch will be provided for all participants both days.

Who Should Apply?

All incoming UH-Hilo students are encouraged to apply, but we prioritize applicants who plan to pursue a major in the College of Natural and Health Sciences.

Why Join Us?

Build Relationships: Connect with other incoming students who share your interests and passion for STEM.
Interact with Professionals: Engage with scientists and faculty members in a relaxed, stress-free environment.
Hands-On Learning: Participate in real science experiments without the pressure of grades or tests.
Better Preparation: Gain valuable insights and skills to excel in your college classes.
Early Campus Familiarity: Check into your dorm room early and become acquainted with the campus before most other students arrive.
Resume Booster: Add this unique experience to your resume.
Free of Charge: The program is entirely free for participants.

Application Details

Priority Application Deadline: July 1, 2025.

Final Application Deadline: July 15, 2025.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to kickstart your journey in STEM at UH-Hilo!

Applying is easy; just answer a few brief questions about yourself.

Space is limited, so apply early.

A link to the application will appear by the end of May

For more information, contact Chester Dabalos.

Meet the Team

Team 1 Design Lead:

Coming soon

Team 1 Participants:

Coming soon

Team 2 Design Lead:

Coming soon

Team 2 Participants:

Coming soon

Institute for Scientist and Engineer Educators Coordinator:

Candice Brown Pacheco, PhD, Assistant Director, ISEE

UH-Hilo Coordinators:

Chester Dabalos, PhD, Instructor of Chemistry

Aaron Tresham, ThD, Instructor of Mathematics

Heather Kaluna, PhD, Associate Professor of Physics and Astronomy

Kanu a Kupu is a joint project of the University of Hawaii at Hilo and the Institute for Scientist and Engineer Educators.