University of the Philippines

Download 🌴 Hawai‘i Survival Hacks for J-1 Teachers 🌴 

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🌴 Hawai‘i Survival Hacks for J-1 Teachers 🌴

Send us an email if you have any questions! upalumni.hawaii@gmail.com

Welcome to Hawai‘i: Survival Hacks for Our Newest Heroes in the Classroom

Aloha and mabuhay, dear teachers!

First off, mahalo—thank you—for choosing to be here. Hawai‘i is incredibly fortunate to have you. We know it took courage, sacrifice, and heart to leave home and take on the vital work of teaching in a place thousands of miles away. You're not just filling classrooms—you’re shaping lives and uplifting communities.

This little guide, "Hawai‘i Survival Hacks," is our way of saying, we’ve got your back. It’s packed with practical tips, local know-how, and cultural tidbits to help you settle in, save a few bucks, and make the most of your island experience. Think of it as your cheat sheet for navigating life in paradise—with a few laughs and life-savers along the way.

Whether it's figuring out where to get affordable groceries, understanding local customs, or learning how to pronounce humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (yup, it’s our State fish!), we hope this helps make your transition smoother.

You’re now part of a vibrant community, not just as teachers, but as cultural ambassadors. And you’re never alone—the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Hawai‘i (UPAAH) and our Filipino community are here to support you every step of the way.

So welcome! Enjoy the sunshine, embrace the aloha spirit, and don’t forget your tsinelas.

On behalf of the UPAAH community, tara, let’s do this!

Kit Zulueta Furukawa

President UPAAH