During spring break, University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²Ñ¨¡²Ô´Ç²¹ nursing student Jolene Chun joined National Guard search and rescue efforts in high-risk flood zones in Waialua to help ensure the safety of residents and property during the state evacuation order in March. Chun, a state-activated Â鶹´«Ã½ Air National Guard Staff Sergeant medic with the U.S. Air Force, is pursuing her advanced degree through the (GEPN) in the (SONDH).
“The most impactful moment during the search was witnessing the devastation of mass amounts of property and vehicles displaced due to the powerful impact of the flood,” Chun said.
Chun earned her bachelor of arts in with a concentration in disaster preparedness and management from UH West Oʻahu in 2021. Her decision to serve as a medic in the Â鶹´«Ã½ Air National Guard was influenced in part by educational opportunities, including tuition assistance that supported her undergraduate degree.
Her training in the GEPN program built on her clinical experience as a medic, strengthening her ability to respond in high-pressure situations.
“The program helped me render aid with definitive treatments in mind, which made me more confident assisting in the field,” she said.
Even to make the smallest difference, I will answer the call.
—Jolene Chun
Balancing both roles, Chun said the skills complement each other and reinforce a shared focus on patient care, making her immediate decision to assist during spring break instinctive.
“I was fortunate to have the opportunity to assist in responding to people in the community. Even to make the smallest difference, I will answer the call,” she said.
A long-term commitment to service
Chun plans to graduate in 2028 and commission as a Â鶹´«Ã½ Air National Guard nurse, eventually pursuing the to continue serving Â鶹´«Ã½ communities. In addition to focusing on women¡¯s wellness, she aims to help improve coordination across federal, state, city and private sectors to expand access to healthcare.
As the affected communities continue cleaning and rebuilding, Chun reflects on the ongoing efforts. “I am appreciative that the National Guard members are still out there working with the community to help the land and people pick up the pieces to hopefully normalize after the effects of the Kona Low system.”
SONDH Dean Clementina Ceria-Ulep added, “Jolene¡¯s dedication as a nursing student and medic showcases the remarkable service and leadership our students bring to Â鶹´«Ã½ communities.”