College of Natural Sciences
Student Ambassadors

Taha Elwir

Year in school: 4 Year in NSSA: 3

My Major is Chemistry BS. I chose chemistry because it provides me with the fundamental knowledge to understand the universe, and the discipline necessary to face life and its challenges. Chemistry is a discipline that comes with much pain, but it is that pain that will make me strong enough to face the hardships that I face throughout my life.

I am the President of the Chemistry Club, an undergraduate researcher in the UHM Chemistry Department, and a volunteer at numerous healthcare facilities/organizations.

Some fun information about me is that I like to fish. I like to ride dirtbikes, watch YouTube videos, and I like hiking.

Katlyn An

Hi my name is Katlyn An. This Fall I will be entering my senior year here at UH Manoa and my third year as a Natural Sciences Student Ambassador. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Biochemistry and chose this major because I have a passion for learning about different components of science that in end come together to explain how and why things are the way they are. In the future I hope to utilize this knowledge towards the field of medicine to fulfill my goal of becoming a physician. Outside of NSSA, you can find me at the John A. Burns School of Medicine where I work in the Dean’s Office and participate in research in the Cell and Molecular Biology lab studying the effects of selenium. In my free time I enjoy spending as much time with my family and friends and have recently enjoyed baking different desserts. I am eager to start a new academic year serving the students of the College of Natural Sciences and hope to help cultivate a positive learning environment for our students to thrive in.

Nicole Yuzon

Aloha, my name is Nicole Yuzon and I am a senior at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The 2020-2021 academic year will be my third year as a Student Ambassador at the College of Natural Sciences. I am passionate about being a Pre-Medical Biology major because it is a diverse field where I can learn about the study of life. Outside of NSSA, I spend my time in Professor Bingham’s biochemistry research lab studying animal venom. I also work as a tutor at the Learning Assistance Center and teach students in General and Organic Chemistry. I started playing the violin when I was in elementary school and I continue to perform as a violinist in the UH Symphony Orchestra. I truly enjoy making meaningful relationships with my peers and mentors and I look forward to making a positive contribution to NatSci students and the community.

Vincent Tran

Hi everyone! My name is Vincent, and I am a senior at the University of Hawaii at Manoa majoring in Biology. This upcoming school year will be my third year as a Student Ambassador at the College of Natural Sciences. I chose to pursue a Bachelor's of Science in Biology because I wanted to gain the foundations and insights I need in order to push myself closer to my goal of being a physician in the future. Outside of NSSA, I am an assistant math team coach at Washington Middle School, where I prepare students to compete in various MATHCOUNTS competitions across the state and country. Outside of school, I enjoy watching and playing soccer, playing the piano, and spending time with my friends and family. If you ever see me around, feel free to say hi! I look forward to establishing new connections with NatSci students and making positive impacts on the community.

Angela Phillips

Hello, my name is Angela and I'm a senior pursuing a BS in biology. I chose biology because it was a subject that answered many of the fundamental questions I would find myself asking daily - I learn something new everyday! This is my first year with NSSA and I hope to share my own joy for STEM with other students. I am currently involved in the Minority Health Research Training program (MHRT) and researching community and culturally appropriate COVID-19 education and prevention campaigns for underserved communities in the State of Hawai'i. I am also the Director of Social Relations in the Pre-Medical Association at UH Mānoa, a member of the Mortar Board Senior Honors Society, and an ACE peer mentor with First Year Programs. In my spare time I love baking desserts, eating ice cream, or decorating any of my clothing and accessories with embroidery.

Cassidy Silva

Hey everyone! My name is Cassidy and I am a sophomore pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Molecular Cell Biology. I enjoy the MCB major because of its focus on cellular mechanisms/processes which may not gain as much of an emphasis in programs that integrate broader topics like animals and ecology. This will be my first year as a NatSci Student Ambassador, and I am also a member of the Student Relations Committee in the Pre-Medical Association, a part of the Recruit Team at the Office of Admissions, and a Queen’s Medical Center volunteer. A few of my favorite things are the color yellow, journaling, reading dystopian literature, watching sunsets with my friends, and listening to my favorite R&B/soul and alternative music. I’m looking forward to another fun and rewarding school year at UHM—best of luck with your classes and personal endeavors!

Danyel Yogi

My name is Danyel Yogi and I am a fourth-year student in the department of microbiology. I chose to study microbiology because of how microbes really run the show by allowing macroscopic life to thrive through a variety of symbioses. I am currently a lab assistant for the Center for Microbiome Analysis through Island Knowledge and Investigation (C-MAIKI), but on my off time I like to dance hula and attempt to bake Pinterest recipes.

Emi Lin Luo

Aloha! I will be a third year undergraduate student, and it will be my first year in NSSA as of Fall 2020. I am majoring in molecular cell biology. I find the complexity of molecular interactions and its fundamental basis fascinating. Besides NSSA, I am the public relations coordinator for Chemistry Club, and a volunteer for the Hawaiian Humane Society and HUGS Hawaii. In my free time, I enjoy taking photos, painting, and playing the ukulele.

Étienne Briddell

Hello, my name is Étienne Briddell and I am currently a sophomore student at UH Manoa. I’m majoring in Biology and I hope to work with animals as a zoologist or conservationist in the future. I love learning about nature, animals and people and have a strong passion for languages as well. Besides English I also speak German and I have been learning French. This is my first year as a Natural Science Student Ambassador and I am really excited to get to know my community more and help out natural science students. For the 2020-2021 school year I will also be serving as a Residential Assistant (RA) for the Hale Aloha Lokelani tower and I am an active member of the Residential Hall Association (RHA).I enjoy helping out at RHA’s monthly activities as well as go to the beach, exploring the island and spend time with family and friends.

Eunice Bala

I am a senior and this is my second year in the NSSA. I am double majoring in Biology and Philippine Language and Literature. I like studying these majors because I am able to learn about all aspects of biology and learn about my culture. Outside of NSSA, I am in SAPFB, PMA, Katipunan Club, Mortar Board, WADEMSIG and Atherton YMCA. My hobbits are hiking, cooking, gardening and embroidering.

Huanli Hu

Hi! My name is Huanli Hu and I am a senior majoring in Biology on the Pre-Med professional track. I decided to major in Biology as I felt that it would allow me a well-rounded science education for medical school, and to expand my knowledge in the biological sciences. This major also presents me the opportunity to enroll in various upper-level science classes that I am interested in and passionate about. Throughout college, I’ve been involved in a multitude of research and leadership experiences. I have previously interned for two summers at a neuroscience facility (one as a team leader), where I conducted and spearheaded clinical research on Epilepsy and seizures, culminating in numerous symposiums, conferences and publications. I am currently a research assistant there and partake in various on-going research projects throughout the year with physicians, medical students, and residents. Additionally, I am a current INBRE research intern and conduct biomedical research. I am also working as a Student Assistant with the John A. Burns School of Medicine Pediatrics Department at Kapi’olani Medical Center for Women and Children and attend weekly Pediatrics Grand Rounds which has allowed me to develop different profound interests in healthcare and Pediatrics. On campus, I serve as the President of HOSA at UHM, a Medical Education Committee member of the Pre-Med Association, and a researcher with MIND (Medical Innovation and Design) Hawaii, where I am working with an interdisciplinary team to develop a monitor that detects the onset of seizures to prevent SUDEP in Pediatric Epilepsy patients. My many quality experiences have empowered me to grow strong passions and interests for neuroscience, pediatrics, research, community outreach, education, and engaging people in healthy lifestyle impacts. Aside from my professional interests, I enjoy painting, learning Chinese (I am fluent in three dialects), writing, making healthy lifestyle choices (I love eating healthy foods and working out!), and traveling to see and explore more of the world. I am so excited to share my experiences and knowledge as a College of Natural Science Student Ambassador and help students navigate through college!

Kelly Huang

Hello, my name is Kelly! This is my first year serving as a College of Natural Sciences Student Ambassador so I am extremely excited to meet everyone! I am currently a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry. I love learning about science and its function and connections to life - therefore, leading into Biochemistry! In the future, I hope to pursue a career within the medical field related to Pediatrics because I love working with kids because they’re so kind and loving. During my free time, I like to solve puzzles, spend time with my family, and draw - specifically watercoloring! Outside of NSSA, I also participate in MINDHawaii and devote my weekends to volunteering out in the community. I look forward to meeting everyone and learning about your passions and goals!

Liliana Rivas

Hello, my name is Lily! I am a sophomore, and this is my first year as a Natural Science Student Ambassador. I am currently a biology major and enjoy learning about the various biological processes that take place within the body. Outside of NSSA I am part of the Healing Earth Initiative, which is an organization that aims to reduce the food waste produced by students and faculty on the UH Manoa campus. Outside of school, I enjoy surfing and exploring Oahu. I look forward to meeting everyone in the fall!!

Maansi Murty

Aloha everyone! My name is Maansi, and I'm a junior at UH Mānoa majoring in Pre-Medical Biology and Public Health. This year will be my second year as a Student Ambassador for the College of Natural Sciences, and I'm so excited! I chose to study Biology because of my love for STEM, and just how life around us works! It has helped provide me knowledge for setting the path for my future career of becoming a physician. Outside of NSSA, I am a part of clubs such as PMA and HOSA, as well as a Girl Scout troop leader for Spalding Elementary School - working with girls oriented for STEM related fields. I love to go adventuring, volunteering, and hanging out with friends! Give me a shout if you ever see me around, I'd love to meet you! I look forward to our positive impact with the NatSci community!

Michaela Kop

Hello! My name is Michaela and I am currently a second year student majoring in Molecular Cell Biology. I decided on my major because throughout my junior and senior year of high school, I became fascinated by the mechanisms of molecular genetics and wanted to learn more about other similar interactions at the cellular level. While it can be challenging at times, I've definitely had a lot of fun with this major so far. I'd almost liken it to the thrill one might get from mountain climbing. Outside of NSSA, I do research under the mentorship of Dr. Sladjana Prisic. I recently received funding from UROP and will be working on a project involving alternative ribosomal proteins this year. I am also a member of the VIDA club and Regents and Presidential Scholars (RAPS) club and will be serving as secretary for the Chemistry Club this year. Additionally, I work as a chemistry and biology tutor at the Learning Assistance Center. In my spare time, I enjoy playing video games, drawing, and reading or writing poetry.

Natalie Choi

I am Natalie Choi, a 2nd year biochemistry major. I elected biochem as my major because I have an interest in health and its relationship with the various biochemical processes that occur in the human body. My dream is to attend med school and become a physician so I am working hard towards that goal. I am also an avid gamer and enjoy playing video games during my spare time. I'm excited to be a member of the NSSA and, hopefully, further develop myself as a person through this experience.

Nicole Chapman

Aloha! My name is Nicole Chapman. I am a junior majoring in Biology! Out of class, I enjoy hiking and surfing at the beach. Excited for another great school year.

Sherylynne Andrada

Aloha! My name is Sherylynne and I am in my fifth year at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa as of Fall 2020. My majors are Biology, Psychology, and Philippine Language and Literature - Ilokano. I first entered this university with a Biology major because I enjoy the variety of intriguing subjects within the Biology major. I added both the Psychology and Ilokano majors after I spent more time exploring other classes and now I feel passionate for all three majors. I enjoy my Biology major because it has helped me gain different perspectives of the world around me. Outside of the Natural Sciences Student Ambassadors, I am also participating in the Mānoa Peer Advisors Program and work as a peer advisor in the Student Academic Success Center where I enjoy meeting one-on-one with freshmen students in the College of Natural Sciences. Outside of school and work, I enjoy hanging out with the amazing friends I have made throughout my years here at UH Mānoa!

Stacie Saito

Hi, my name is Stacie Saito and I am a junior double majoring in chemistry and psychology and a minor in music. This is my second year as a student ambassador. I think chemistry is fun because it just makes sense, and it's interesting to know how simple seemingly amazing things can be when we take a closer look. I play the violin as a hobby, though it is not something I would brag about. I joined the orchestra for a couple semesters at Manoa, that's why I chose music as a minor. I am also very fond of pit bulls and origami cranes.

Tina Loos

Aloha! My name is Tina Loos, a junior majoring in Computer Science at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa. This is my first year as a Student Ambassador at the College of Natural Sciences. I am extremely excited to serve as a mentor and leader to fellow students while welcoming new students in their transition to the UHM community. As a Computer Science major, I find the technological field remarkably fascinating and interdisciplinary. I am passionate about conducting research on artificial intelligence, learning how to program in different languages, creating websites, developing games, and encouraging other girls to pursue the STEM field through the National Center for Women and Information Technology. Outside of NSSA, I am the treasurer of the UHM Association of Computing Machinery, a Computer Science tutor and Learning Assistant/Assisting Teaching Assistant for the UHM ICS Department. Additionally, I am a UHM New Student Orientation Leader and the VP of Social Media/Public Relations for the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, UHM Chapter. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing tennis, listening to music, volunteering in the community, and spreading the spirit of aloha.