University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo undergraduate selected for national NOAA program

An undergraduate student at the University of Hawaii at Hilo has been selected for the highly competitive NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship, administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Iran Rosales was chosen from a national pool of applicants and will conduct research alongside NOAA scientists during a paid summer internship.

The scholarship provides financial support for students’ junior and senior years, as well as funding to attend national scientific conferences.

According to NOAA’s Office of Education, 130 students were selected for the 2025 class from 820 applicants representing 85 campuses across the United States and its territories. Scholars will participate in an orientation scheduled for May 27–29, where they will learn about NOAA’s mission and connect with agency scientists and leadership.

The program also includes a 10-week summer 2026 internship, offering hands-on experience in oceanic and atmospheric research.

NOAA officials said the scholarship aims to support students pursuing careers in science, service, and environmental stewardship.