Feeling behind on finding scholarships? Did you know that by being brave enough you could possibly get a full ride to Hawaii Pacific University? Distinguished Young Women (DYW) is the perfect program to consider when it comes to not only earning scholarship money but also developing life skills and networking. 

Last year, Sacred Hearts Academy senior Madison Iwashita became the first from our school to win the program in three decades. This year, Iolani School student Tamara Lum took the title of Distinguished Young Woman. She was awarded a full ride scholarship to Hawaii Pacific University, along with other scholarship money. 

I, too, competed in this competition and won a $500 scholarship for being the most spirited, which is voted by other contestants. Because of my participation, I would like to share more about what this program has to offer to future seniors. 

DYW mentors work with participants on how to do well in interviews, how to push through struggles and most importantly, how to take in all the life lessons taught through a series of workshops.

“The most important thing I learned was to just be authentic and to add in your personal flair to everything you do,” Lum said. “It’s easy to try to elevate yourself to be what you think others want to see…However, it is much more intriguing to see people speak from the heart about what they are passionate about…As (American gymnast) Suni Lee says, ‘Your normal is good enough.’” 

Mentors, participants and past DYW winners offer advice to not only provide a better chance of winning but also provide life-long lessons and opportunities and a newfound confidence. 

“Women leaders in our community are always willing to mentor,” DYW state chair Sarah Lee Morihara said. “Listen and learn from them and their experiences. Take advantage of learning opportunities available to you, and always keep an open mind. Last, it is difficult to take risks, but be willing to raise your hand and try something new.”

Participants learn how to remain poised and collected during interviews. One of the tricks Lum likes is to “fake it, until you make it,” she said. Lum, like many of our other candidates, felt nervous about this competition. Yet, with her resilience to push through doubts, she smiled through the nervousness and went on to win the DYW title. 

“Simply having the experience of things like an interview, being put under pressure or performing, can be life-changing,” she said. “Of course, you get to be a part of the most supportive community.”

When participants were asked if they would recommend others to apply to the DYW program, many agreed. According to Iolani senior Leali’i Crowley, her experience on DYW encouraged her to find her confidence.

“I am so happy that it’s (DYW) completely free, so whether you end up with $10,000 or nothing at all, you’re rich with experiences and new friends, and plenty of practice and skills that will carry you through life,” Crowley said. 

“Whether you’ve had no experience on-stage or you live on the stage, this is a wonderful opportunity to earn a handful of scholarship money…The interview skills, friendships and emphasis on physical health and wellness will help any rising senior to start their year off strong,” said Kamehameha senior Aeryn Paet, who won the Scholastic Awards at this year’s competition.

“DYW may sound intimidating at first, but it is through challenging experiences that we grow the most. You will most definitely come out of this program with a new outlook on yourself and the future. For anyone even slightly interested, I highly highly recommend it,” Pacific Buddhist Academy senior Riho Umitani said. She placed third in this year’s competition.

As a winner of the $500 spirited award, my classmates and I believe this is the perfect opportunity for next year’s seniors to attend because of all the hard work, ethic and leadership this program teaches young women to have in the future, where it is certainly needed. This has helped all 10 of us in becoming future leaders. 

For more information on the DYW program, visit distinguishedyw.org.