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Mikhail Vostrikov at HPU's Aloha Tower Marketplace.
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Mikhail Vostrikov and his wife visit HPU's Aloha Tower Marketplace campus.
U.S. Army Specialist Mikhail Vostrikov, a combat medic stationed at Schofield Barracks, has found a transformative educational experience at Hawaiʻi Pacific University through the school’s Military Campus Programs (MCP). Balancing the rigorous demands and unpredictability of military service with his studies in computer science, he has navigated his academic journey with resilience and determination.
“Being in the Army and an HPU student has been quite a balancing act, but the flexibility of online classes has made it possible,” he shared. “The schedule is set really well, allowing me to fit my coursework around my military duties.”
Pursuing Higher Education with Support
Vostrikov’s decision to enroll at HPU was driven by a need for a quality education that could adapt to his demanding lifestyle. “I needed a college that was flexible and supportive, and HPU turned out to be a great choice. It’s genuinely a good school, and it’s helping me to achieve my goals.”
HPU’s supportive environment stands in stark contrast to Vostrikov’s previous educational experiences. Reflecting on his high school years, he recalled feeling undervalued and constrained. “Here, I feel more like a student because I can actually ask questions. I’m able to communicate with, and have access to, my professors.”
One of his standout experiences has been the empathy shown by the faculty towards his unit’s unpredictable training schedule, which oftentimes takes him off the island with little to no connectivity.
“I feel like I’ve gotten the support I need, even when I’m out in the field and can’t get to a computer,” he said. “Whenever I’ve needed an extension due to military commitments, my professors have been accommodating. Every single time I’ve been given the green light for that as long as my quality of work is still good.”
Vostrikov also highlighted the positive environment of HPU’s MCP. “Every time I’ve needed help, whether it’s contacting a professor or solving an issue, the staff, particularly David [Hull, Director Army Programs] at Schofield, have been incredibly supportive. They’ve always done the extra mile to assist me.”
Reflections on a Positive Experience
Despite the challenges, Vostrikov has found moments of happiness and fulfillment in his academic journey. “My favorite class, surprisingly, was an arts class focused on sustainable arts. It allowed me to explore my creativity, which is something I don’t often get to do. It was a refreshing change from the technical, math-oriented courses.”
Another positive to Vostrikov’s experience at HPU was the instruction he received from Roger Kadala, Ph.D., professor of physics and advanced mathematics. “He’s an excellent professor. His recordings are very well done and sometimes even a bit humorous, which makes the learning process enjoyable. He’s always been willing to help with timeline extensions and other needs,” he said.
Though he says his eventual graduation ceremony will likely mark his favorite memory of his time at HPU, for now, it is the first day of class. “Just being there with the professor reminded me of high school and it felt like home.”
The Value of Pursuing a Degree
For those considering whether to pursue higher education while in the military, Vostrikov offers some sage advice. “Ensure you secure financial support like the Pell Grant, but even if you have to pay out of pocket, it’s worth it. You’re promoting yourself within the military and saving time. Instead of spending two or four years in college after your service, you can step directly into the civilian world or advance your military career.”
As he approaches the end of his military contract, Vostrikov is contemplating his next steps. “HPU has opened up a lot of opportunities for me. I can use my degree in the civilian world or potentially advance within the military as an officer. The education I’m getting here gives me the freedom to make these choices.”
Mikhail Vostrikov’s journey at HPU exemplifies the positive impact that a supportive and flexible educational environment can have on military students. As he looks forward to graduation in 2025 and beyond, he remains grateful for all of the opportunities and growth HPU has facilitated “Future me will thank myself for not wasting time and taking advantage of the education available to me. It’s an investment in my future that I know will pay off.”
