Priced Out Of Paradise by Crystina

Priced Out Of Paradise by Crystina - December 2023 Scholarship Essay

The juxtaposition of newly formed high rises alongside old corner stores speaks to the difficult transition that Hawai’i is currently going through. Many are being “priced out of paradise,” while others have nowhere else to go. This ongoing crisis has underscored the critical need for more effective legislation and innovative property development approaches.

In college, I plan to major in real estate development with a minor or double major in public policy. Growing up in Hawaiʻi has exposed me to a challenging market, which has opened my eyes to what real estate can truly mean to people. Having grown up seeing people in mansions and major poverty, typically those of native Hawaiian descent, I have realized the importance of creating better systems throughout this island state. Many view Hawaiʻi as a beautiful destination for their summer homes, whereas natives are unable to find a home in their homeland. My education will let me delve into innovative developments, complex asset classes, and effective legislation. During my four years, I will explore the economic, social, and political costs of land development in communities both growing and in decline.

Equipped with the necessary tools, I will take my ʻike (knowledge in Hawaiian) back to the islands to take on this complex problem in order to enable more individuals to call this paradise their permanent home.