Unlocking Success: How an UH Alumna’s Journey in Okinawa Transformed Her Career | University of Hawaiʻi System News

Grace Nushida took a bold step when she crossed the Pacific for her studies. While at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, she earned a scholarship to study in Okinawa. Remarkably, she was the only student from Hawaiʻi chosen for the new Okinawan Prefecture Arts University in Shuri.

Her year in Okinawa was nothing short of transformative. It immersed her in music, culture, and the rich flavors of her Okinawan heritage.

“Studying in Okinawa was one of the most transformative experiences of my life,” Nushida shared. “Living in a foreign country where I didn’t speak the language pushed me out of my comfort zone. It taught me to embrace failure and grow from it.”

After returning home, she completed a bachelor’s degree in communications in 1996. Nushida credits UH Mānoa for giving her the skills and confidence to thrive in her personal and professional life.

She recalls, “My time at UH was incredibly formative. I had outstanding professors at the College of Communications. One elective course with Glen Grant truly stood out. He was known for his storytelling and often captivated us with Hawaiian ghost stories.”

Today, Nushida serves as a sales manager at UHA Health Insurance. She works to simplify health coverage for others. Her close ties with UH and its alumni network continue to shape her career.

“I collaborate with many UH alumni in my job,” she said. “That connection fosters trust and reminds me that we are part of a larger community. My time at UH taught me how to lead, listen, and grow.”

She believes that experiences like her own can inspire others to step outside their comfort zones. A recent survey found that 81% of students who study abroad feel more confident in themselves afterward, showcasing the power of such experiences.

As more students consider studying abroad, experts highlight its growing importance. According to the Institute of International Education, the number of U.S. students studying abroad increased by 8.7% before the pandemic, showing a strong desire for global experiences that enrich education and personal growth.

Grace’s journey reflects how stepping into the unknown can lead to invaluable personal development and connections that last a lifetime.

Read more about Grace Nushida’s story.

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