Hawaii English Language Program
1395 Lower Campus Rd. MC 13-1
Honolulu, HI - 96822
1395 Lower Campus Rd. MC 13-1
Honolulu, HI - 96822
(808) 956-6636
(808) 956-5100 (fax)
(808) 956-5100 (fax)
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HELP Teachers and Staff
The people who teach and work at HELP come from a wide background of language use and experience. Our close affiliation with the renowned Department of Second Language Studies at the University of Hawaii makes us a solid choice for ESL/EFL learning, but it is our teachers and staff members that truly make us a unique institution. We simply think we have the best of the best!
The people who teach and work at HELP come from a wide background of language use and experience. Our close affiliation with the renowned Department of Second Language Studies at the University of Hawaii makes us a solid choice for ESL/EFL learning, but it is our teachers and staff members that truly make us a unique institution. We simply think we have the best of the best!
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Harmoni Elliott, Housing Coordinator
Aloha! I was born and raised in Hawaii on the island of Oahu. I have two undergraduate degrees in Business Administration and Japanese from Pacific University in Oregon. I also have a Japan-focused Masters in Business Administration (JEMBA) from University of Hawaii’s Shidler College of Business Administration. I have lived in Japan for a total of four years and have spent some time traveling throughout Asia.
I love interacting with people from all parts of the world and welcoming them to my home here in Hawaii. I also enjoy spending time with my family, going to the beach, sports, traveling and reading. Come join the fun and learning here at HELP!
Aloha! I was born and raised in Hawaii on the island of Oahu. I have two undergraduate degrees in Business Administration and Japanese from Pacific University in Oregon. I also have a Japan-focused Masters in Business Administration (JEMBA) from University of Hawaii’s Shidler College of Business Administration. I have lived in Japan for a total of four years and have spent some time traveling throughout Asia.
I love interacting with people from all parts of the world and welcoming them to my home here in Hawaii. I also enjoy spending time with my family, going to the beach, sports, traveling and reading. Come join the fun and learning here at HELP!
Sarah Smith, Front Office Assistant
Hi everyone! I was born and raised here in Hawai‘i on the Big Island. I graduated from Konawaena High School in Spring ‘09 and soon after started my first fall semester here at UH-Manoa. I am a Graphic Design Art Major and I am hoping later to become a teacher.
When I am not busy studying for my classes, I enjoy reading, watching my favorite TV shows and movies (I used to work at a video store), hanging out with friends, and sleeping. I also love taking photos; I even have my camera named Avery! So if you ever want to talk about school, movies, photography, or anything, I would love to chat. See you around the office!
Hi everyone! I was born and raised here in Hawai‘i on the Big Island. I graduated from Konawaena High School in Spring ‘09 and soon after started my first fall semester here at UH-Manoa. I am a Graphic Design Art Major and I am hoping later to become a teacher.
When I am not busy studying for my classes, I enjoy reading, watching my favorite TV shows and movies (I used to work at a video store), hanging out with friends, and sleeping. I also love taking photos; I even have my camera named Avery! So if you ever want to talk about school, movies, photography, or anything, I would love to chat. See you around the office!
Joel Weaver, Director
I was born and grew up in Kinshasa, Congo in central Africa. I came to Hawaii in 1986 to get my Master’s degree in teaching English, and have taught English at all levels in Africa, Micronesia, California, and Hawaii. I have been a teacher trainer, materials developer and language school administrator as well. Here at HELP, I am honored to lead a wonderful team of teachers and administrators who pour their hearts and minds into providing an absolutely incredible experience for all who come here to study.
In my free time, I like spending time with my family and enjoying the ocean and other natural wonders of Hawaii. Come join us here in paradise--the most remote and most beautiful islands in the world. My staff and I are eager to give you the chance of a lifetime to learn English and store up golden memories to carry home!
I was born and grew up in Kinshasa, Congo in central Africa. I came to Hawaii in 1986 to get my Master’s degree in teaching English, and have taught English at all levels in Africa, Micronesia, California, and Hawaii. I have been a teacher trainer, materials developer and language school administrator as well. Here at HELP, I am honored to lead a wonderful team of teachers and administrators who pour their hearts and minds into providing an absolutely incredible experience for all who come here to study.
In my free time, I like spending time with my family and enjoying the ocean and other natural wonders of Hawaii. Come join us here in paradise--the most remote and most beautiful islands in the world. My staff and I are eager to give you the chance of a lifetime to learn English and store up golden memories to carry home!
Grace Choi, Instructor
I am originally from Korea, and I have lived in Hawai‘i for 7 years. I got my MA in Second Language Studies with a specialization in second language acquisition in 2005 and the Advanced Graduate Certificate in Second Language Studies (AGC) in 2006 from UH. I taught at HELP from 2003 to 2006, and I am so happy to be back. I have taught English to all age groups, and I love teaching.
In my free time, I like to spend time with my family, enjoying the beautiful ocean and going to different places around the island. Hawai‘i is a perfect place to live and HELP is in the center of Hawai‘i. Please come join us and become a part of our HELP family.
I am originally from Korea, and I have lived in Hawai‘i for 7 years. I got my MA in Second Language Studies with a specialization in second language acquisition in 2005 and the Advanced Graduate Certificate in Second Language Studies (AGC) in 2006 from UH. I taught at HELP from 2003 to 2006, and I am so happy to be back. I have taught English to all age groups, and I love teaching.
In my free time, I like to spend time with my family, enjoying the beautiful ocean and going to different places around the island. Hawai‘i is a perfect place to live and HELP is in the center of Hawai‘i. Please come join us and become a part of our HELP family.
Matthew Nelson, Instructor
Aloha kakou! I was raised in a military household, which means I've never lived anywhere for more than 4 years, and by the time I was 12 years old I'd already been to 46 states and 15 countries (some by accident)! I graduated from the University of Southern California (Fight on, Trojans!) in 2005, and since then I've worked in Japan, Spain, and Hawai'i teaching English. Currently, I am pursuing a Master's in Second Language Studies.
My dream is to somehow combine my various interests in cinema, languages, Chicano folklore, Trojan football, American subcultures, environmental activism, international music, and chronic wanderlust into a lucrative career. HELP is a stimulating place to learn English that provides small yet challenging classes. At the same time, Hawaii's premier university is literally at your feet. Without a doubt, you will meet unforgettable people and forge extraordinary friendships. I think HELP is awesome!
Aloha kakou! I was raised in a military household, which means I've never lived anywhere for more than 4 years, and by the time I was 12 years old I'd already been to 46 states and 15 countries (some by accident)! I graduated from the University of Southern California (Fight on, Trojans!) in 2005, and since then I've worked in Japan, Spain, and Hawai'i teaching English. Currently, I am pursuing a Master's in Second Language Studies.
My dream is to somehow combine my various interests in cinema, languages, Chicano folklore, Trojan football, American subcultures, environmental activism, international music, and chronic wanderlust into a lucrative career. HELP is a stimulating place to learn English that provides small yet challenging classes. At the same time, Hawaii's premier university is literally at your feet. Without a doubt, you will meet unforgettable people and forge extraordinary friendships. I think HELP is awesome!
Shin-Ru (Cynthia) He, Instructor
Aloha everyone! I am from Taiwan, a small island full ofhospitable people! I moved to Hawaii only 2 years ago after I stayed inCalifornia for one year. I am currently pursuing my M.A. degree in SecondLanguage Studies at UHM, and I just finished teaching in Thailand this summer!
I like traveling, trying authentic food, watching movies,learning languages and doing Zumba! To be a professional teacher and researcheris my goal for the future, and I really enjoy teaching and learning from thestudents at the same time. HELP is a great path to pursue your academic goals,and I know this more than anyone else. If you want to find out more about howto be successful in studying or making more friends, I am more than happy toshare my experiences with you! Welcome to this big family!
Aloha everyone! I am from Taiwan, a small island full ofhospitable people! I moved to Hawaii only 2 years ago after I stayed inCalifornia for one year. I am currently pursuing my M.A. degree in SecondLanguage Studies at UHM, and I just finished teaching in Thailand this summer!
I like traveling, trying authentic food, watching movies,learning languages and doing Zumba! To be a professional teacher and researcheris my goal for the future, and I really enjoy teaching and learning from thestudents at the same time. HELP is a great path to pursue your academic goals,and I know this more than anyone else. If you want to find out more about howto be successful in studying or making more friends, I am more than happy toshare my experiences with you! Welcome to this big family!
Michael Ryall, Instructor
I was born in California and have lived in many places. I taught English in Cameroon (West Africa) for two years, and I also taught in Japan. I’ve been to Guatemala, Puerto Rico, Turkey, and all over the United States. Before coming to Oahu, I lived in Boston, where I got an M.A. in ESL. I came to UH last year to study languages and culture. Of all the places that I’ve ever been to, Hawaii is definitely my favorite.
I love to go swimming on a nice sunny day, either in a pool or at the beach. I also love going for a long hike in the mountains. There are so many beautiful places to discover and explore. Oahu’s beauty and diversity are truly amazing. I’m sure you will enjoy getting to know the island and the people who live here.
I was born in California and have lived in many places. I taught English in Cameroon (West Africa) for two years, and I also taught in Japan. I’ve been to Guatemala, Puerto Rico, Turkey, and all over the United States. Before coming to Oahu, I lived in Boston, where I got an M.A. in ESL. I came to UH last year to study languages and culture. Of all the places that I’ve ever been to, Hawaii is definitely my favorite.
I love to go swimming on a nice sunny day, either in a pool or at the beach. I also love going for a long hike in the mountains. There are so many beautiful places to discover and explore. Oahu’s beauty and diversity are truly amazing. I’m sure you will enjoy getting to know the island and the people who live here.
Chris Guro, Assistant Director
I'm originally from Chicago, Illinois, but I've been living in Hawaii for more than 30 years so it's definitely my home. During my years here, however, I spent time in Japan to teach English. When I returned, I got a Masters Degree in ESL from UHM. I enjoy all aspects of ESL as an instructor, teacher trainer and administrator. In my spare time, I like to read mystery novels, watch CSI on TV, and go to the movies (almost) every weekend. I hope you will come to Hawai‘i and discover a wonderful place that is different from anywhere on earth. The warm sun, the friendly people, and the unique nature make Oahu an island paradise. Of course, HELP is the best place to learn English with its great staff, talented teachers, energetic students, and a friendly atmosphere. Aloha!
I'm originally from Chicago, Illinois, but I've been living in Hawaii for more than 30 years so it's definitely my home. During my years here, however, I spent time in Japan to teach English. When I returned, I got a Masters Degree in ESL from UHM. I enjoy all aspects of ESL as an instructor, teacher trainer and administrator. In my spare time, I like to read mystery novels, watch CSI on TV, and go to the movies (almost) every weekend. I hope you will come to Hawai‘i and discover a wonderful place that is different from anywhere on earth. The warm sun, the friendly people, and the unique nature make Oahu an island paradise. Of course, HELP is the best place to learn English with its great staff, talented teachers, energetic students, and a friendly atmosphere. Aloha!
Brandon Narasaki, Instructor
Aloha. I was born in California, but moved to Maui, Hawaii when I was 14. I received my B.S. in Linguistics from the University ofCalifornia, Davis, and I am currently working towards my M.A. in Second Language Studies here at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. I started my teaching experience as an academic writing tutor at a community college in California in 2006. Since 2008 I have been an online instructor for an English academy in Korea. I have also travelled to Japan and Thailand where I enjoyed teaching English and learning about new cultures.
In the future I plan to pursue a career in English teaching overseas, but for now I am enjoying my time teaching here at HELP. If you are interested in learningEnglish and are looking for a challenging yet friendly environment, then HELP is the place for you. The staff and instructors are eager and motivated to work with you. Come improve your English skills and relax in the #1 vacation destination in the world? E komo mai (“welcome”) to HELP!
Aloha. I was born in California, but moved to Maui, Hawaii when I was 14. I received my B.S. in Linguistics from the University ofCalifornia, Davis, and I am currently working towards my M.A. in Second Language Studies here at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. I started my teaching experience as an academic writing tutor at a community college in California in 2006. Since 2008 I have been an online instructor for an English academy in Korea. I have also travelled to Japan and Thailand where I enjoyed teaching English and learning about new cultures.
In the future I plan to pursue a career in English teaching overseas, but for now I am enjoying my time teaching here at HELP. If you are interested in learningEnglish and are looking for a challenging yet friendly environment, then HELP is the place for you. The staff and instructors are eager and motivated to work with you. Come improve your English skills and relax in the #1 vacation destination in the world? E komo mai (“welcome”) to HELP!
Jin Woo, Instructor
Welcome! I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. I received a B.A. in Second Language Studies, and I’m currently pursuing an M.A.in Second Language Studies with a specialization in reading program and material development at UHM. I studied abroad in Japan during my junior year ofcollege, and I recently conducted research in Korea for my graduate studies. I hope to become a capable teacher-researcher who impacts students through greatteaching, learning materials, and curricula.
In my free time, I love to run, play tennis, and go hiking. I also love to check out interesting restaurants, workout classes, and art exhibits. Please come and join our vibrant HELP community with great courses, friendly students and staff members, and amazingly fun student activities. Looking forward to meeting you!
Welcome! I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. I received a B.A. in Second Language Studies, and I’m currently pursuing an M.A.in Second Language Studies with a specialization in reading program and material development at UHM. I studied abroad in Japan during my junior year ofcollege, and I recently conducted research in Korea for my graduate studies. I hope to become a capable teacher-researcher who impacts students through greatteaching, learning materials, and curricula.
In my free time, I love to run, play tennis, and go hiking. I also love to check out interesting restaurants, workout classes, and art exhibits. Please come and join our vibrant HELP community with great courses, friendly students and staff members, and amazingly fun student activities. Looking forward to meeting you!
Marilyn Whitehorse, Instructor
Aloha! I'm originally from Washington state--from generations of teachers, so teaching is in my bones. I've lived all over the U.S.: East and West coasts,the Midwest, the South and in beautiful Hawaii. I received my B.A. in English from Eastern Washington University and my M.A.T. from School for International Training. It has been my privilege to develop teacher training courses, be a book rep for Pro Lingua Books, as well as teach English and ESL at language programs, community colleges and universities on the mainland and in Hawaii for the past 20 years.
In my sparetime (what spare time?) I'm working on a novel having to do with ancient Hawaii. I've traveled all over these fabulous islands and am always willing to chat about my adventures here. I love to be in the ocean with my snorkel and fins. What better place to be than Hawaii? What better place to learn English than HELP? E Komo Mai! (Welcome!)
Aloha! I'm originally from Washington state--from generations of teachers, so teaching is in my bones. I've lived all over the U.S.: East and West coasts,the Midwest, the South and in beautiful Hawaii. I received my B.A. in English from Eastern Washington University and my M.A.T. from School for International Training. It has been my privilege to develop teacher training courses, be a book rep for Pro Lingua Books, as well as teach English and ESL at language programs, community colleges and universities on the mainland and in Hawaii for the past 20 years.
In my sparetime (what spare time?) I'm working on a novel having to do with ancient Hawaii. I've traveled all over these fabulous islands and am always willing to chat about my adventures here. I love to be in the ocean with my snorkel and fins. What better place to be than Hawaii? What better place to learn English than HELP? E Komo Mai! (Welcome!)
Kelly Lin, Instructor
Aloha everyone. I’m originally from Taipei, Taiwan. I’ve been living here for more than one year and really like this place. It's sunshine and friendly people make me feel at home. I’ve been teaching Englishin Taiwan, Thailand, and US. The courses that I have taught include speaking and listening, and academic reading and writing. Now, I am studying for my Ph.D in Second Language Studies with a focus on the incorporation of technology into teaching reading. In my spare time, I love exploring the island by hanging out with friends during weekends. I like outdoor and indoor activities, such as hiking and visiting museums. Working in HELP is a nice experience for me.Everyone here is so friendly and willing to help people. I sincerely invite you to join us to study English and experience the wonderful life at the same time.
Aloha everyone. I’m originally from Taipei, Taiwan. I’ve been living here for more than one year and really like this place. It's sunshine and friendly people make me feel at home. I’ve been teaching Englishin Taiwan, Thailand, and US. The courses that I have taught include speaking and listening, and academic reading and writing. Now, I am studying for my Ph.D in Second Language Studies with a focus on the incorporation of technology into teaching reading. In my spare time, I love exploring the island by hanging out with friends during weekends. I like outdoor and indoor activities, such as hiking and visiting museums. Working in HELP is a nice experience for me.Everyone here is so friendly and willing to help people. I sincerely invite you to join us to study English and experience the wonderful life at the same time.