Allysha Chung, the new guidance counselor for students letters L through R at Radford can be found in the counseling center.

When asked how she likes working with students Chung said that the “highlight of it is working with you guys [students].”

Even before Chung came to work with the Rams she was still helping people at a non-profit organization – Coalition for a Drug Free Hawaii. This non-profit organization focuses on educating youth on the various effects that drugs can have on them especially while their brains are still undeveloped. Chung would go around different middle schools in Hawaii, specifically middle schools in Kalihi and Wahiawa to talk to students and speak to them directly to spread awareness about drugs, vaping, and other addictive substances through events, after school programs and in class presentations.

During Chung’s undergraduate at University of Hawaii at Manoa she wanted to be a teacher but her Mom who also worked as a school guidance counselor inspired her to change paths. Chung said she still wanted to have an impact on students; she just wanted to do it in a different capacity and be involved in different ways – and counseling is where she found herself at.

“Just being here with them is the first most important thing, being someone they can trust and being a safe place with no judgment,” said Chung.

Chung decided to work at Radford because of Malia Kau, the college guidance counselor. Chung said that Kau spoke very highly of Radford and her experience working here, therefore convincing Chung Radford would be a good fit for her as well.

“There’s still so much time – enjoy what you have now” is advice that Chung would give students at RHS.