Blog – Our Stories
Every student has a unique story – that becomes a valuable insight to you.
Emma Ripper’s Story
German Exchange student, that attended HPU Fall 2023
Smilla Bakteman Hedlund’s Story
Degree-Seeking student that shares her insights of finishing her whole bachelor degree in The U.S
Albin’s Story
A senior at Hawaii Pacific University, he shares his experience of moving to Hawaii.
Malin Melvoll Johnsen
Five months sounded like a long time before I left, but once I was there, time flew by, and I loved every second of it.
Other Stories
A new student story will be uploaded every Saturday, so stay tuned.
Takeover Thursday
Q/A Summary
Of all the questions, asked by other students that you need to know.
Takeover 26/3
Norwegian Exchange student, that attended HPU Spring 2025.
Takeover 19/3
Norwegian Visiting student who takes business classes during her year at HPU – Fall 2024 and Spring 2025.
Takeover 12/3
Norwegian Visiting student, who currently takes a lot of different classes at HPU – Fall 2024 and Spring 2025.
Takeover 3/4
Norwegian master student that is currently doing an exchange semester at HPU during Spring of 2025.
Takeover 10/4
Norwegian exchange student that is taking media classes, during her time at Hawaii Pacific University. – Spring 2025.
Takeover 17/4
Throughout her visiting year, Carina has taken a lot of different classes but most importantly – she has experienced the Island. Fall 2024 and Spring 2025.
Incoming Takeovers
Do you want to have your own takeover or ask questions? Make sure to follow us to instagram to see the takeovers in real time.
Want to stay inspired?
And articles is not for you?
Take a look at our videos – Giving you all the visuals you need to make sure you are doing the right thing about studying in Hawaii.
The founder.
Hi there, my name is Smilla Bakteman Hedlund. I’m 22 years old and founded Try Out the Waters as my bachelor project in my last semester at Hawaii Pacific University, where I studied communication studies & practices with a concentration in strategic communication.
My Story
From Sweden to Hawai’i Pacific University
Before graduating high school in Sweden in 2021, I knew that I wanted to do something different. Therefore, after one year of working, I packed my bags in August of 2022 and moved to Santa Monica to begin studying at Santa Monica College. But then I transferred to HPU in the fall of 2023 to pursue my bachelor’s degree.
Why I love
Studying in Hawaii
A decision that became one of the best ones that I have made
Tropical Surroundings
Waking up every day and being embraced by the sun, ocean, humidity, and greenery. Even if the island is small, there are always some things to do—surf, tan, hike, eat acai bowls, etc.
Educational System
Even if it’s far more self-reliant to build a degree, I love how the classes are structured with plenty of assignments and projects, because then you learn something rather than showing all of your knowledge on one test.
Hybrid cultural space
The constant navigation of cultural differences has given me a comprehensive understanding of cross-cultural communication. In addition to enhancing my interest in learning more about the cultures we see around the world.
Read more about
Experiences
With valuable insights so that you can take advantage of each day in paradise, and maximize your memorizes during your stay.
Sustainability
To visit Hawaii comes with responsibilities to care for the land but also about giving back to the local community.
Questions?
It’s better to get answers than just waiting for the solution to show up—don’t hesitate to contact us and we will try to give answers to your unique needs!
We want to help you!
Stay Updated
Become a part of our community, and stay inspired by reading our posts.
Contact support
We would love to hear from you. Do you have any valuable insights that you would like to share? Let us know
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