WAU Alumna Finds Faith, Purpose, and Service in the Pacific Islands

TAKOMA PARK, Md. (Nov. 3, 2025) — For Achsha Hembrom, a 2024 graduate of Washington Adventist University (WAU) with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Honors Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Pre-Med, mission service was not part of her original plan. Yet today, she finds herself thousands of miles from Takoma Park, serving as a missionary teacher on the island of Saipan, part of the Northern Mariana Islands near the Mariana Trench—and discovering new dimensions of faith, resilience, and purpose.

“Growing up, the focus was always on academics and career — which I’m grateful for — but I never really considered taking time away from that path for long-term mission service,” Hembrom said. “It wasn’t until a series of personal events shifted my perspective that I realized I wanted something more — something that would stretch me, grow my faith, and allow me to serve in a deeper way.”

Through a connection in Adventist education, Hembrom learned that many college graduates choose to teach on islands after completing their degrees. Intrigued, she began exploring overseas opportunities and soon discovered a small Seventh-day Adventist school in Saipan. After sending an email expressing her willingness to serve, she received a response she describes as providential. “The principal told me my message was an answered prayer — they had been praying for a teacher,” she said. Within months, Hembrom was on a flight to the Pacific, ready to begin her new chapter.

Though she had experience teaching in Pathfinders, leading a full classroom was new territory. “I told myself, ‘I’ll do my best and let God do the rest,’” she recalled. “The students I worked with were full of energy and personality, but many struggled behaviorally, which affected their academics. Before I could effectively teach, I had to reach them on a personal and emotional level.”

That journey required patience, compassion, and faith. “There were long days, tears, exhaustion, and moments when I didn’t know how I’d get through,” Hembrom said. “But those were the moments when I saw God work most clearly.” Through it all, she discovered that teaching was as much about listening and loving as it was about academics.

Her students taught her lessons that transcended the classroom. “There’s a verse that says we must be like little children,” she said, referencing Matthew 18:2–4. “Their ability to forgive, to love without conditions, and to show joy even after correction reminded me of how God loves us.”

Life on the island, she said, is simple yet deeply fulfilling. “There isn’t as much as the mainland in terms of convenience, but it’s rich in warmth, community, and beauty. The people here are incredibly kind and welcoming, and the island itself — surrounded by crystal-clear beaches — feels like a daily reminder of God’s creation and faithfulness.”

Now in her second year of service, Hembrom reflects on her time in Saipan as one of profound growth. “This year has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I’ve learned not only how to serve others like Jesus did but also how to trust God in the unknown,” she said.

As she prepares to apply to dental school, Hembrom hopes to integrate her passion for science with her commitment to service, continuing the spirit of mission that defines her journey. “For anyone considering mission work or taking a gap year to serve,” she said, “I can’t recommend it enough. It changes you — your faith, your perspective, and your understanding of love.”

Her story exemplifies the essence of Washington Adventist University’s motto, Gateway to Service — a life dedicated to faith, learning, and service to others.

To learn more about WAU’s academic programs and service opportunities that prepare graduates for meaningful global impact, visit wau.edu and take the first step toward a life of purpose and leadership.