Figure 1. Mauna Kea, as seen from Kua Bay. (Photo by Ross Auna)
As the sun set on Kua Bay, The Mauna Kea Observatory was clearly visible as it reflected the final minutes of the day. While the summit of Mauna Kea was more than thirty miles away (a 70 mile drive), and nearly 14,000 feet higher in elevation, it felt as if it was just beyond reach.
Stop 3 Kua Bay
Figure 2. Clayton in a sunset pose. (Photo by Ross Auna)
The final stop for most of our crew was the beach at Kua Bay. Once again, the water and weather were perfect and we took advantage of the chance to relax before a long plane ride home. While we were goofing around, someone had the idea of creating a Geography 368 calendar. Now was the time to snap some photos, if this idea were ever to become a reality.
Over the ten days we spent together on the island, our relationships with each other changed. At the beginning of the trip, some of us barely knew each other. After hours of van rides, late night reflections of the day, countless adventures, and things that cannot be posted on the web, we truly got to know each other. By day 10, our relationships had evolved from just students and faculty, to friends, and we will carry this experience with us for the rest of our lives.
We would like to thank the UWEC faculty that made this trip possible, Ezra and Doug for their guidance and patience throughout the semester, and the wonderful people of Hawai`i for all you have taught us.
Mahalo no kou kipa 'ana mai! (thanks for visiting!) Geography 368, 2011