The final event of the Spring 2014 semester was “Pizza with Professionals.” The second edition of the event welcomed over 60 people who came to listen to a group of very inspiring local professionals who spoke about their experiences as undergraduates, life post-graduation and what to expect when searching for a job. Pizza lunch from Domino’s was provided to attendees. In case you missed the event, snippets from the event are posted below each panelist’s bio.

Emmy-Lea Agustin, MS, CCLS

Emmy is a Certified Child Life Specialist, Wellness Coach at Clark Hatch Fitness Center, Author in Training and Motivation Speaker of her “Becoming a Professional Role Model” Series. As “the Emmy” and Lady Entrepreneur of her own business, “Operation Emmy, LLC”, Emmy hopes to inspire others with her talks and the “Eight Elements” to Transform and Inspire. She is a local girl from Aiea, Hawaii and after receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in Family Resources, she received her Master’s Degree in Child Development in Chicago. She loves to share her creativity and fun by incorporating it in all she does!

• Some degrees will provide you with an internship so it is important to ask advisers or others for internship opportunities.
• For those undeclared, take a couple of random classes and choose your major based on what classes you do well in or have the most interest in.
• Hang out with people you’re interested in, whether it’d be people in your degree or different foundations.

For more about Emmy, please visit www.operationemmy.com and learn about © “Becoming a Professional Role Model”!

Lucas Moe

My name is Lucas Manulele Moe. I am originally from Centennial, Colorado but have family ties to the Hawaiian islands. I complete my BA in Political Science at UH Hilo and my Masters in Social Work from UH Manoa. I have been working in the higher education field since 2012 and currently work as the O’ahu Island Coordinator for the Liko A’e Native Hawaiian Leadership Program. Fun Fact: I am a first generation student and also named after Luke Skywalker from Star Wars.

• Venture out of your shell. Expand your friends and collaborate with different social groups. That way, you can network and line up internships to gain experience for future jobs.
• In order to be successful in college, you must be able to manage your time well and prioritize what needs to be done.
• Understand your strengths and weaknesses. “Work so hard that you think your weaknesses are your strengths and your strengths are your assets.”

Timothy Goshi

Born and raised on the North shore of Oahu, I am a 1998 graduate of Kahuku High School. I earned my BS in Civil Engineering in 2002, then went on to earn an MS in Structural Engineering from Stanford University in 2004 and an MBA from Shidler College of Business in 2010. Currently, I am a project manager at a local structural engineering firm (KAI Hawaii, Inc). Some of my past projects include Whole Foods Kailua, Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, Paia Elementary School Cafeteria, and Kapolei Commons. I am married to an amazing person and we just had our first child last October (2014). On my free time I enjoy fishing, golfing and watching UH sports.

• Network! Stay connected with friends and join as many professional associations.
• Find a mentor to guide you to what you want to do.
• Take advantage of what UH Manoa has to offer because there are many opportunities available.
• “If you want it that bad, make it happen.”

Sandy Narvaez

Sandy Narvaez is a graduate of the Shidler College of Business with a double major in International Business and Marketing. After graduation, she accepted the role of Outside Sales & Promotions Manager at Polynesian Adventure Tours then moved on to the Makaha Resort as Sales Manager subsequently advancing to the title of Director of Sales for the DoubleTree by Hilton Alana Waikiki hotel. Her most recent role as Associate Director of Sales for the Hilton Waikiki Beach allows her the work life balance needed to enjoy life as a mother of two young children while working for a hotel she loves. With over a decade of experience in the visitor industry, she has served on the board of Meeting Professionals International, won the Rising Star Award and traveled to various destinations promoting travel to Hawaii.

• College is a time to grow and learning about branding yourself. Think about your own brand and who you are, then, create demand for your brand. Network and work with those that value your brand.
• It is very important to have a mentor during college.
• Always move forward. You have the opportunity to make opportunities for yourself.

Thank you to the Student Activity and Program Fee Board for generously funding the Fall 2015 Panel Series! Thank you to all the MSE Committee volunteers, as well as Dr. Cambra (Office of Undergraduate Education) for supplying supplemental funding.