Ten students from across Hawaiʻi gathered at the East-West Center to prepare for PAAC's inaugural study tour to Palau — and discovered they had more in common with the Pacific's other shore than they expected.

Before 18 students from across Hawaiʻi flew to Taiwan, they spent three days learning what lei really carry — and asking questions only Taiwan could answer.

Expanded from 14 to 42 student ambassadors, the 2026 Hawaiʻi Sister-State Study Tours mark a major investment in the next generation of leaders. With statewide representation and subsidized access, PAAC and the East-West Center are building Hawaiʻi’s global leadership pipeline.

Expanded from 14 to 42 student ambassadors, the 2026 Hawaiʻi Sister-State Study Tours mark a major investment in the next generation of leaders. With statewide representation and subsidized access, PAAC and the East-West Center are building Hawaiʻi’s global leadership pipeline.

PAAC is excited to announce that applications for our 2025 Freeman Summer Study Tour to Vietnam are now being accepted. Under the theme “Cultivating Resilient Communities”, students will be immersed in Vietnamese history, politics, and culture. Students will also learn about global issues, strengthen 21st century skills, and build a strong sense of community with their fellow travelers. The group will be visiting Hội An, Huế , and Hà Nội.

Thanks to the generosity of The Freeman Foundation, the majority of participants with demonstrated financial need and/or demonstrated commitment to PAAC programs have received merit- and/or need-based financial aid for this program.

Link to Student Application Form

When are the applications due?

📅 Friday, January 17, 2025 at 11:59PM

Who can I contact if I have any questions?

Contact Carol Li <paac@paachawaii.org> if you have any questions.

In June 2025, 16 Hawaiʻi high school students joined PAAC’s Freeman Vietnam Study Tour to explore the culture, history, and resilience of Vietnam. From Hội An to Hà Nội, students engaged in hands-on learning, cultural exchanges, and unforgettable experiences that shaped their growth as global citizens.

Hawaiʻi students deepen Sister-State ties with Ilocos Sur through culture, history, and shared stories on PAAC’s 2025 Philippines Study Tour.