Let’s get one thing straight: “Aloha” isn’t just a word used as a greeting or farewell in Hawaii. As someone who was born and raised on the island of Kauai, I’ve encountered Aloha in many ways, shapes, and forms. But what really is the true meaning of this word “Aloha,” and where can we find it?

Like many difficult-to-grasp words, simply analyzing it and breaking it down into pieces will unlock a more understandable definition. Aloha can be divided into two parts that hold meaning in the Hawaiian language: “ALO” which translates into “sharing.” And “HA” which is a significant term used to describe life, energy and breath in Hawaii. Put all together, “Aloha” is an ambiguous expression of community and compassion within the islands.

It’s a way of going about life with respect for diversity and empathy with the world. You don’t have to be from Hawaii to share and feel the Aloha spirit. It reaches even further than that.

Most born-and-raised islanders believe they won’t find Aloha elsewhere in the world. I thought so too. This was until I got into traveling and decided to move all the way to the other side of the country in New York City. The more I let myself be receptive to it, the more I’ve discovered that Aloha truly can be a global existence.

Transitioning into college as a first-year is especially exciting because of the students and staff, beaming with school spirit, who go the extra mile to help you feel at home. Strangers that you've only met through the class's online group chat are now on their ways to becoming 'Ohana (family). Specifically at Barnard College, an atmosphere of support and empowerment is fostered so that you'll never feel too lost in the big city. This is Aloha.

In a more worldwide context, Aloha is welcoming refugees with open arms into a place you call home. It’s individuals, though they themselves may not be directly affected, standing in solidarity to champion justice for the POC and LGBTQ communities. The list goes on.

I still believe that the spirit of Aloha in its deepest and most genuine form can only be found back home in Hawaii. However, it has become evident to me that something so similar to that Aloha can live thousands of miles away in my new temporary home: New York.

So when seasons change and weather gets colder, instead of dreaming of the warm Hawaii sun, why not spread the warmth of the Aloha spirit?