Bona Park is a Notre Dame senior earning a major in mechanical engineering, a minor in energy studies and a concentration in control and mechanical systems. As a Notre Dame student from the Hawaiian island of Oahu, Bona has played a key role in Keough School professor Susan Ostermann’s research on hazard-resilient housing in Maui following the deadly 2023 fires in the town of Lahaina. Relying on her connections from the Notre Dame Club of Hawaii, Bona arranged interviews with Lahaina residents who had lost their homes and were willing to share their experiences with researchers. Data collected in these interviews, which took place in June, will enable Professor Ostermann and her research team to develop housing solutions that are more resilient to extreme weather events.
In addition to assisting with Professor Ostermann’s research in hazard-resilient housing, Bona has been involved in Professor Margaret Coad’s IRIS Lab for Soft Robotics Research and Professor Mengxue Hou’s Robotics and Autonomy Research Lab for underwater vehicle navigation research. After graduating from Notre Dame, she plans to pursue graduate studies in marine robotics.
How did you get involved in this Keough School research project?
I am an energy studies minor and the program’s director, Anne Pillai, shared with me an article about the project from the Keough School website. Knowing that I am from Hawaii and passionate about giving back to the community, Anne thought it would resonate with me. I was mesmerized by the details of the project and the idea of helping through research. I immediately emailed professor Susan Ostermann, expressing my willingness to help in any capacity available.
What has it meant to you to help with this research project, especially being from Oahu?
Being from Oahu and deeply connected to the Hawaiian ocean, forest, language and culture, this project has meant the world to me. Growing up, I’ve always felt a strong duty to give back to the ‘āina (land) and our community. When the Lahaina fire devastated so many lives, my heart ached for those affected. Being able to support and listen to the fire victims and related personnel through this research has been incredibly personal and moving. It’s given me a sense of purpose and a way to contribute to the healing process of my beloved community.
What skills or knowledge have you gained?
I’ve gained so much more than skills. I’ve learned the importance of conducting respectful and empathetic interviews, making sure each person feels heard and valued. Contacting potential interviewees and hearing their stories has taught me how to navigate difficult conversations with care and sensitivity. This experience has also deepened my connection to the resilience and strength of the Hawaiian community, reminding me of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and supporting one another in times of need.
What advice do you have for Notre Dame students who want to get involved in endeavors outside their primary major?
Notre Dame is a place that is full of opportunities and that is incredibly accessible for undergraduates to get involved in research and extracurricular activities. I think this is what makes Notre Dame such a unique and special place for those eager to expand their interests and horizons.
I have found the supportive faculty and the university system to be invaluable. They don’t just focus on teaching within primary majors but also aim to develop well-rounded leaders who can make contributions to society. Whenever I have reached out for advice or opportunities outside my primary department, I always received help and support. So, my advice to other students is: don’t hesitate to reach out and build connections if anything on campus interests you. I assure you, you’ll find a welcoming and helpful community ready to assist you. That is how your time as an undergraduate at Notre Dame is meant to be!
Top photo: Bona Park conducts an interview with a Lahaina resident who lost her home in the August 2023 fires.