Lorna-Lei Sua'ava, Samoan Biochemistry Pre-Med Student, Urges U.S. Pasifika STEM Scholars to Apply for National Science Foundation Internships

Lorna-Lei Sua'ava, Samoan undergraduate scholar at Southern Virginia University, shares her transformative experience as a recipient of a National Science Foundation-funded Biochemistry internship at Brigham Young University, Provo. She hopes to see an improved American Samoan healthcare system empowering traditional medicinal practices.

Tell us about your background and where you grew up.

I was born in Long Beach, California and raised in Alaska. Both of my parents are from American Samoa, from the villages of Nu’uuli and Aua. I have never lived in Samoa, though I have always felt that I lacked significant knowledge of the culture and our heritage. I am grateful that my parents took the initiative to teach me about the culture and language in our home because the values of a Samoan woman have made me who I am today.

How was your experience applying to university?

The college application process was rough. I wasn’t too familiar with the process of searching for an undergraduate school, the ins and outs of finding opportunities and scholarships for higher education so I had to do a lot of my own research. Without a lot of guidance, I reached out to teachers and family mentors for support. I wish I knew about existing resources because it would have made the process a lot smoother for me. 

You received a National Science Foundation funded internship. How did this impact your educational and career dreams?

This experience has been a phenomenal game changer for me. It has shown me different paths within the field of health and has helped me gain a greater understanding and love for research in Biochemistry. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in research labs alongside Biochem graduate students and professors at BYU.

This year I have had the pleasure of participating in another research lab at the Fritz B. Burns Cancer Research Laboratory. It’s been a blessing to come back to BYU and engage in all the learning and discoveries made here. In August 2020, I will also present last year's research publication at the National Science Foundation Conference in San Francisco. I highly recommend that undergraduate juniors and seniors interested in the sciences look into National Science Foundation internships and similar opportunities. 

What are your career aspirations?

I originally wanted to become a Nurse Practitioner and move back to the islands to serve the people of American Samoa; but after my first internship, I decided I pivot towards a research-focused career in Biochemistry. With that said, I will remain in the health field. Ultimately, the long-term goal remains for a service career to enhance the health care system. It has been something heavy on my mind, the healthcare system in American Samoa. Having learned that presently, too often many locals fear going to the doctor unless it is a life and death/emergency situation because of the lack of resources, reliable medical physicians/staff and expensive fees. 

As Pacific islanders, we are very much holistic with traditional medicinal practices. I want to promote this and lead/participate in improving the hospital and its environment. I hope to bring home knowledge, skills and experiences from studies abroad to be part of this movement, in facilitating an upgrade in the overall operation while incorporating more holistic practices or that of our traditional medicinal customs. I believe that our millennial generation of island scholars have a lot of work to do to accomplish this for American Samoa and the surrounding Pacific.

Any advice for Pacific scholars?

“Network with people from various backgrounds and find your support groups.”

Never be afraid to ask. Let professors and counselors know your situation and always ask for assistance when needed. I have found that in doing so, there have been many opportunities that opened up for me that I never thought possible. I heavily relied on those who were there to support me, such as the Polynesian Heritage Association at SVU.

“Let people know your aspirations.”  Be heard, let them know what you envision as a career path, stay positive in your actions and when voicing your needs. In my experience, this always got me the help I needed. There were rough times, some denial but I stayed persistent. Persistence is KEY to doors of opportunity opening up for you. Be sure to stay on top of your academic studies, your grades are proof of your commitment to succeed and why you’re there. 

Our Pasifika people have SO much potential. We just need to find the proper support and materials/resources for us to succeed. My experiences prove that the opportunities are there and the possibilities are endless. Fa’a muamua le atua (God first), Fa’amalosi (Be strong) and with the right mindset, YOU can do anything.