Make-A-Wish Hawai‘i helped turn a college dream into reality for a 17-year-old from Pepeʻekeo, awarding $10,000 to support his tuition as he begins the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo pre-engineering program.
Rather than wishing for a trip or celebrity meet-and-greet, the Big Island student asked for help with college costs so he could stay on track toward a future in engineering.
During a July 22 wish reveal and celebration at the UH Hilo campus, Make-A-Wish Hawai‘i presented a $10,000 check, which the teen immediately handed to the university cashier. The gift marked a major step toward his goal of earning an engineering degree.
Family and mentors say he has long kept his eyes on the future, guided by values of respect, consideration and giving his best. Drawn to problem-solving since childhood, he gravitated to math, brain teasers and strategy games, interests that shaped his path toward engineering.
Despite ongoing treatment and the challenges that come with leukemia, he has stayed committed to school and his ambitions. He was recently accepted into a new pre-engineering pathway that begins at UH Hilo and transitions to UH Mānoa to complete a bachelor’s degree.
He will start classes this fall at UH Hilo. During the campus celebration, he toured facilities, met key faculty and picked up supplies and UH Hilo gear at the bookstore.
“Rancin’s wish is a powerful reminder that a wish is more than one unforgettable day — a wish is transformative, creating hope and strength that shape a child’s life in lasting and meaningful ways,” said Make-A-Wish Hawai‘i President and CEO Trini Kaopuiki Clark, adding thanks to UH Hilo for celebrating his determination and love of learning.
UH Hilo Chancellor Bonnie Irwin said the East Hawai‘i campus is ready to support him as he pursues success in the pre-engineering program and beyond. “We are so honored to welcome Rancin into our Vulcan ‘ohana,” Irwin said, noting his resilience and curiosity.
For more information, visit the Make-A-Wish Hawai‘i website and explore programs and resources at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo.
Make-A-Wish Hawai‘i supports education-focused dreams
This wish underscores how educational goals can be part of the wish experience, offering long-term impact for Hawai‘i keiki pursuing higher education and career pathways.
Families exploring STEM opportunities for youth can also look to community events such as Science Night at Keaʻau Armory, which highlights hands-on science and engineering activities.
