The University of Hawaii at Hilo (UHH) is a public university located in Hilo, Hawaii. Founded in 1947, it offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including nursing, natural sciences, education, and business. In this article, we will examine the pros and cons of the University of Hawaii at Hilo in detail.
Pros:
- Location: The University of Hawaii at Hilo is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, which offers students access to beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities. The university is situated on a beautiful campus and is just a short drive from downtown Hilo, which offers a range of entertainment and cultural opportunities.
- Diversity: The University of Hawaii at Hilo has a diverse student body, with students from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This creates a rich and inclusive learning environment that fosters personal growth and cultural awareness.
- Strong academic programs: The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including several programs that are unique to the university, such as tropical conservation biology, astronomy, and Hawaiian language and culture. The university has a reputation for academic excellence and is ranked among the top colleges in the region by U.S. News & World Report.
- Small class sizes: The student-to-faculty ratio at the University of Hawaii at Hilo is 13:1, which means that students can enjoy small class sizes and personalized attention from their professors. This allows for a more interactive and engaging learning experience.
- Research opportunities: The University of Hawaii at Hilo provides students with a range of research opportunities, including opportunities to work with faculty on research projects and internships with local organizations. This can be particularly beneficial for students who are interested in pursuing academic or research careers.
Cons:
- Cost: Like many public universities, the University of Hawaii at Hilo can be expensive, especially for out-of-state students. However, the university provides financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students offset the cost of attendance.
- Limited graduate programs: While the University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a range of undergraduate programs, the university has limited graduate programs. This may impact students who are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in a specific field.
- Limited campus resources: As a small public university, the University of Hawaii at Hilo may not have the same level of resources as larger universities. This can impact the range of courses and programs offered, as well as the availability of certain resources and facilities.
- Distance from mainland U.S.: The University of Hawaii at Hilo is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, which can be far from the mainland U.S. This may limit the opportunities for students who are interested in internships or other professional opportunities outside of Hawaii.
- Limited extracurricular activities: While the University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a range of extracurricular activities, including clubs and organizations, athletics, and community service programs, some students may feel that the range of activities is limited compared to larger universities.
Overall, the University of Hawaii at Hilo is a strong choice for students who are looking for a diverse, academically rigorous, and unique college experience. While the university does have some limitations in terms of cost, graduate programs, campus resources, distance from mainland U.S., and extracurricular activities, it offers a range of opportunities for personal and academic growth. Students who are interested in attending the University of Hawaii at Hilo should carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision.