For some students, navigating their way to a degree can be daunting. One place that has made the journey easier is the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Pre-Health/Pre-Law Advising Center (PAC). Offering free, walk-in guidance for students pursuing careers in health sciences and law, PAC helps turn professional aspirations into reality.
Two former advisees, now first-year students in their respective professional programs, credit PAC with playing a pivotal role in their journeys.
“Whether you’re just exploring your options or ready to apply, we’re here to guide you,” said PAC Director Kiana Shiroma.
Advocating for rural communities
Kaʻohi Gomera, a first-year law student at the William S. Richardson School of Law, grew up in North Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island. Inspired by her rural community’s healthcare challenges, she hopes to advocate for better healthcare policies in underserved areas.
Gomera first learned about PAC’s services through UH Mānoa’s law school. Working closely with her advisor Tori Shiraki, a third-year law student, Gomera received step-by-step guidance on her law school applications.
“Tori helped me with everything—my resume, personal statement and essays. She was honest and gave unbiased advice, which was so valuable,” Gomera shared. Regular meetings helped her refine her applications, even when faced with the challenge of being waitlisted.
“The center created a safe space where I felt comfortable sharing personal experiences,” Gomera said. “They encouraged me and were always available to answer questions. Their support made a stressful process feel manageable.”
Now thriving in her first year, Gomera values the sense of community at the UH law school. “It’s a privilege to pursue higher education, and PAC made it more accessible for students like me, especially as a first generation college graduate, now first generation law student” she said.
A journey to medicine
Michael Ajimura, a first-year medical student at the John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM), initially dreamed of becoming an engineer. However, his experiences with first aid as a Boy Scout sparked a passion for biology. After earning a degree in molecular cell biology from UH Mānoa, Ajimura turned to PAC for guidance on medical school applications.
“I wish I had gone to PAC sooner,” Ajimura admitted. “Even after graduation, I didn’t realize how much I didn’t know. Dr. Shiroma and my advisors, Jenny Nguyen and Juliana Tomitabroke broke everything down for me—from primary applications to personal statements and extracurriculars.”
Ajimura’s journey involved applying to 20 medical schools, a daunting task made smoother with PAC’s help. “Their advice was comforting and practical. They were there every step of the way, no matter how many questions I had,” he said.
After finishing his first semester at JABSOM, Ajimura reflects on the challenges of medical school and the importance of support systems. “Dr. Shiroma was so happy when I got in, and her belief in me made all the difference,” he said.
A resource for all stages
Both Gomera and Ajimura encourage students to take advantage of PAC’s resources. “Even if you’re unsure about your path, PAC can help you figure it out,” Ajimura said.
